London's best ballroom nights

'Strictly Come Dancing's popularity shows no sign of flagging. In fact, it's more popular than ever, recently topping 11 million viewers. But for some of those fans, just watching isn't enough. What if you could bring your own 'Strictly' fantasy to life? With a few lessons, you could be the next Scott, Pamela or Kara (let's keep Ann Widdecombe out of this), and there are plenty of classes and balls in London catering for those who like a bit of cha cha cha in their lives. If you've got a little sequinned number waiting in the wardrobe, give it an outing here…

To dance with the pros
A few years ago, inspired by 'Strictly', Jenni Kravitz took herself off to ballroom dancing classes, only to find herself in a roomful of women with no men to dance with. So she came up with a solution: Simply Dancing Partners. It offers ballroom and Latin lessons where students can dance with professional partners (male and female), instantly making you feel like some sort of minor soap star waltzing round a BBC studio. Compared with other ways of learning, it's certainly a fast-track experience, but the catch is, it's also more expensive. Kravitz runs a tea dance at the Waldorf Hilton hotel, where you can show off your moves in the elegant Palm Court (with pro partners on hand) - although again, it's pricey, and therefore attracts an older, richer crowd.
Simply Dancing Partners, classes held in central London (7736 4493/ www.simplydancingpartners.co.uk).

For a five-star Saturday night
Former 'Strictly' dancer Karen Hardy now runs her own studios in Fulham, where she's hoping to bring a bit of showbiz sparkle to your lives. Yes, you, readers. She runs private and group classes throughout the week but on alternate Saturdays, the smart studio becomes the Rumba Lounge, complete with Champagne bar, VIP lounge, live DJ and professional demonstrations. Because everyone's there to dance, there's a friendly, unpretentious crowd ranging from beginners to experienced dancers, and the varying standards mean it's easy to get up and have a go without any judging eyes. Teachers are on hand and regular simple tutorials allow you to learn new steps too.
Rumba Lounge at Karen Hardy Studios, alternate Saturdays, 10 The Boulevard, SW6 2UB (0845 567 1155/www.karenhardystudios.com).

For committed dancers
Who knew there were so many good ballroom dancers in London? The standard of dancing at the busy monthly Stardust Ball might leave beginners a bit daunted, but the brilliant professional demos should provide some inspiration. Turn up early to go through some simple steps, then pick yourself a partner and give it a whirl. Enough spins and you'll forget you're in an old south London working men's club and not bathing in the bright lights of Blackpool Tower. Everyone swaps partners during the evening so it's a very social event - as long as your steps are up to scratch.
Stardust Ball, The Putney Club, 63 Upper Richmond Rd, SW15 2RD (www.stardustball.co.uk).

For a cup of cha cha char
There's less razzle-dazzle but still plenty of dancing to be found at the capital's tea dances.
Art of the Dog Friendly, quirky gathering for all ages at the lovely Finsbury Old Town Hall. Monthly Sundays. www.ragrooftheatre.co.uk
BAC Monthly Tuesday afternoon tea dance. www.bac.org.uk
Greenwich Dance Trip the light fantastic on a Saturday afternoon.
www.greenwichdance.org.uk
Royal Opera House Enjoy a live band and the grandeur of the ROH on Friday afternoons. www.roh.org.uk