Business Details
Welcome to Grafton Dance Centre
Grafton Dance Centre has been providing dance and fitness instruction in a characterful environment since its inception. Located in Dulwich Village, South East London, the centre offers a diverse range of classes catering to all ages and skill levels. Under the stewardship of Paul Burbedge, a former Scottish Amateur Ballroom Champion with international competitive experience, the centre combines traditional ballroom excellence with modern dance styles. The facilities include two adaptable studios previously frequented by Strictly Come Dancing luminaries, offering spaces for both regular classes and private events.With a strong emphasis on community and accessibility, the centre welcomes beginners through to advanced dancers while maintaining high teaching standards. The dedicated instructors focus on creating a safe, enjoyable atmosphere that prioritises student wellbeing alongside technical development. Partnerships with specialist fitness instructors expand the offerings to include complementary wellness activities. The centre's rich history as a global dance hub is preserved through its continued commitment to excellence in dance education.
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Latin American
Flamenco
Pilates
Yoga
Wedding Dance
Private Tuition
Social Events
Studio Hire
Fitness Classes
Highlights and features
- International competitive experience informs our teaching methodology
- Adaptable studios previously visited by ballroom legends
- Specialist instructors for both dance and complementary fitness activities
- Comprehensive programmes from beginner to competitive levels
- Established community hub with proven teaching success
What people say
Brilliant teachers
Always fun
Very friendly
Top notch teaching
Fantastic facilities
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Traditional ballroom dance tuition covering waltz, foxtrot and tango techniques. Experienced instructors guide students through graded levels in a structured social environment. Classes cater for couples and singles seeking recreational or competitive development.
Latin American
Specialist Latin dance instruction covering samba, cha cha cha and rumba. Technique development combines rhythm training with partner coordination in both group and private settings. Curriculum includes both social and competitive performance elements.
Flamenco
Authentic flamenco classes focusing on percussive footwork and expressive arm movements. Instruction covers traditional forms while allowing creative personal expression. Suitable for building cultural appreciation and performance skills.
Wedding Dance
Personalised choreography packages for wedding ceremonies. Professional tuition develops custom routines matching couples' musical preferences and ability levels. Packages include progressive skill development and performance confidence building.
Studio Hire
Flexible dance space rental with two adaptable studios and kitchen facilities. Ideal for private dance events, parties and community functions. Combined spaces provide large capacity with historical charm and modern amenities.
People
Paul Burbedge
Director
Professional ballroom dancer since age 9 with 20 years competitive experience across Europe, USA, Japan and New Zealand. Former Scottish Amateur Ballroom Champion who joined Grafton Hall in 2010.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballroom, Latin American, flamenco, and speciality wedding dance tuition alongside complementary fitness activities.
Are classes suitable for complete beginners?
All our classes welcome absolute beginners with progressive learning paths from foundation skills through to advanced levels.
Do you offer private dance lessons?
Private tuition is available for individuals, couples and small groups with flexible scheduling options.
Can we hire the venue for events?
Our adaptable studios accommodate private functions including Christenings, parties and formal events with kitchen facilities available.
How do I book wedding dance lessons?
Contact us directly to discuss your requirements - we offer three tailored packages with progressive skill development.
Reviews (7)
Hilary French
Jan 08, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Great for practice sessions, spacious studio, lovely people and friendly social dancing.
Great for practice sessions, spacious studio, lovely people and friendly social dancing.
Sarah Gilbert
Nov 03, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
I have been dancing for nearly four years and absolutely love being at the Grafton! The teachers are brilliant and classes are always fun and everyone is very friendly. Whether you are a novice or experienced dancer looking for classes/social dancing, I highly recommend you visit the Grafton - you will be made very welcome!!
I have been dancing for nearly four years and absolutely love being at the Grafton! The teachers are brilliant and classes are always fun and everyone is very friendly. Whether you are a novice or experienced dancer looking for classes/social dancing, I highly recommend you visit the Grafton - you will be made very welcome!!
Stephanie McKinley
Nov 01, 2020
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I've tried lots of schools around London, but since I discovered the Grafton I don't go anywhere else. The teaching is top notch and all levels catered for without too much pressure. I have felt very safe to be back dancing after all this time. Lots of careful considerations given to make sure people are comfortable and not put at risk during these rather weird times. This is the perfect place to come if you want a good fun atmosphere for social dancing and where you can learn a lot.
Kat Taylor
Oct 19, 2020
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Ive been taking ballroom and latin classes here for a couple of years, as well as private lessons and social evenings; I love it! The teachers are fantastic and there is always a welcoming atmosphere. I couldnt recommend the Grafton enough, whether youre an absolute beginner or an advanced dancer.
Christine Stapleton
Sep 18, 2020
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The Grafton Ballroom Studio is a fantastic place. Great facilities, brilliant teachers who really care about their students, and friendly, welcoming people. The ballroom has a warm relaxing atmosphere and classes are well organised, fun and for all levels. As a novice dancer, I started classes a few years ago. I am now fitter, slimmer and much to my delight I can cha cha cha, rumba tango and waltz around the ballroom. I have made new friends and love going to classes and socials. Learning and mastering steps has brought me a surprising joy.
Paul is a dedicated teacher, with a relaxed style, enthusing
Paul is a dedicated teacher, with a relaxed style, enthusing
Mike Trice
Aug 18, 2020
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Positive:Value
Before Covid regularly attended the monthly social dance. Great atmosphere and fun evening. All abilities catered for in a friendly atmosphere. Really missing this at this time.
Before Covid regularly attended the monthly social dance. Great atmosphere and fun evening. All abilities catered for in a friendly atmosphere. Really missing this at this time.
Robert McIntosh
Dec 27, 2016
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Local dance hall with regular classes for lovers of all sorts of dance styles, especially ballroom and Latin styles. Very friendly group
