Where to discover rock n' roll in Paris

What? This mobile dance school has been a storming success, spreading swing, Lindy Hop and Charleston grooves all over Paris. With classes for beginners up to absolute whizzes, the focus is on rhythm and connection with the music, as well as syrchronisation with a partner. Offering solo lessons, social dance classes, balls and video tutorials, you'll be tea dance ready in no time.

Where? Various locations including Le Carreau du Temple, La Verrière and Centre Culturel Pouya. 

When? Classes are during the week, with balls on weekends. Check the website for more details.

What? A kingpin of Parisian nightlife since 1936, this ancient ballroom is an institution for all dance lovers. With its bright orange colour palette, plush benches and saloon boothes around the dancefloor, it could be straight off a sixties filmset. There's tea dances, salsa, and Argentinian tango nights, but we prefer their legendary rock n' roll Wednesdays. The €12 entry includes a drink and boogying until 2am.  

Where? 9 Rue de Lappe, 11th

When? Wed 8pm-2am for the Soirée Rock n' Roll (begins again on September 6 2017) 

What? This Bastille record shop is seventh heaven for rock n' roll fans. With its own music label, Born Bad has signed superb French rock groups like ‘Cheveu’, ‘Magnetix’ and ‘Yussuf Jerusalem’. As well as its own bands, you can experience a whole rainbow of cool sounds, from punk and 70s rock ‘n’ roll, to blues and hardcore. Don't miss the dedicated rockabilly and fifties section. Time machines don't get better than this. 

Where? 11 rue Saint-Sabin, 11th

When? Mon-Sat 12-7.30pm

What? This record bazaar-cum-club is spread over two floors, so you can browse for your vinyls on the top floor and get grooving in the basement (after some expertly concocted Dutch courage perhaps). Keep an eye on their Facebook page for the free rock n' roll DJ sets. It's no wonder the place translates as 'the wave machine'. 

Where? 8 Passage Thiéré, 11th

When? Mon-Sat 6pm-2am, Sun 7pm-2am  

What? Once a leather factory, this Menilmontant café and bar has a fantastic downstairs concert venue which hosts a plethora of cool music acts. Although there are no regular rock n' roll nights, it's worth keeping an eye on their program as they offer some of the best live music acts out there. Dancing shoes obligatory.     

Where? 23 rue Boyer, 20th

When? Mon-Sun 6pm-2am

What? This Parc de la Villette joint is a cross between a neighbourhood watering hole, an Italian restaurant and a concert hall. The eclectic program prioritises new French and international acts, with genres ranging from electro-rock to folktronica. Peruse their site to find your perfect rock n' roll night.  

Where? 16 rue Barbanègre, 19th

When? Mon-Sat 8pm-1.30am