Claridge’s

As grand dames in capital go, Claridge’s is perhaps the grandest of all them, and its serious ballroom is no exception. It even has its own ballroom reception, with mirror-like polished marble floors, and original Art Deco mirrors, meaning you can click-clack through in style to the English heritage listed ballroom itself. It has been the setting for many a society wedding, ball and state banquet. If only the walls could talk...

Read ELLEuk’s full review of Claridge’s

The Langham

Another London grande dame that has played host at one time or other to soirees of some of Europe’s elitist in the 19th century, is the Langham. Built in 1865 it has retained many of its original elegant features, including its towering renaissance pillars. Its floor to ceiling windows overlook the Middleton Rose Gardens, which are some of the oldest private gardens in London.

Address: 1C Portland Place, London, W1B 1JA; london.langhamhotels.co.uk

The Rivoli

The Rivoli down in Brockley is an absolute gem of a find and is one that’s well worth checking out. It’s the only intact 1950s ballroom in London and is more than a little bit special. Think deep red velvets, gold-framed walls and some impressive Austrian crystal chandeliers. It has, over the years been a music hall and a picture house but has now been lovingly restored to its original purpose. We’ll be keeping an eye out for dates for their brilliant jive parties or heading down on the first Sunday of every month to practise our ballroom and Latin dances...

Address: 350 Brockley Road, London, Greater London SE4 2BY; therivoli.co.uk

Palm Court – Waldorf Hilton

The fact that the film ‘A night to remember’ (one of the first films shot about the Titanic), used Palm Court as the setting for the liner’s grand salon, gives some indication of its grandeur. It was also one of the very first venues in London to host tango teas back in 1939, until a bomb nearby shattered the glass roof of the Palm Court. It wasn't until earlier this year, that the tango teas were reinstated. Now every month you can book a place to put on your dancing shoes and head to the grand ballroom for the tango supper. You’ll get a glass of Fantinel Rose, take a 45-minute dance class with Argentine tango dancers Leonardo Acosta and Tracey Tyack-King and then have one of the speciality tango cocktails. Supper will then be served while the professionals take to the stage.

Address: Aldwych, London, WC2B 4DD; hilton.co.uk/waldorf

The Corinthia

Dating back to 1885, the Corinthia (formerly the prestigious Hôtel Métropole) was famous for its ‘Midnight follies’ held in the majestic ballroom. It’s still as beautiful as it once was, with craftsmen meticulously restoring it to its former glory. Its full height windows bathe the rooms in natural light during the day, while the enormous chandeliers add a touch of glamour at night. If there’s anywhere that feels like stepping back in time, it’s here.

Read ELLEuk’s full review of the Corinthia

Like our pick of the best grand ballrooms in London but looking for somewhere to get a bit of practice in first? Check out ELLE’s pick of the best places to learn to dance.