The 5 Best Acting Schools in London to Set the Stage for Outstanding Performances
It isn’t easy to break into the entertainment industry. You need solid training and, sometimes, the right connections.
It’s a good thing that the city holds a huge variety of drama schools, part-time courses, and specialised workshops for every skill level. To get you started, we gathered the best acting schools in London to help you dramatically change your career path.
If you’re ready to step into the limelight, get your actor headshot taken and enrol in a programme!
How much does acting school cost in London?
The cost of enrolling in an acting school in London generally ranges from £1,000 for short courses to £25,200 or more annually for full-time international degrees.
| Programme Type / Student Category | Estimated Annual Tuition | Typical Acceptance Deposit |
| Short Courses & Part-Time Diplomas | £1,000+ | Audition fees apply |
| Full-Time UK / Home Students | £16,000 – £17,500 | £350 |
| Full-Time International Students | £23,000 – £25,200+ | £2,000 – £2,500 |
1. The Unseen Acting School
Website: https://theunseen.co.uk/
Address: Spotlight Building, 16 Garrick St
Contact: 020 3089 8536
Hours: Saturday or Sunday, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Existing Students Advanced Sessions, 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM
The Unseen Acting School takes complete beginners and transforms them into working professionals through intense, specialised training. Their dynamic classes are guided by expert tutors who dive deep into methods like Stanislavski and Meisner.
They keep the content fresh every week, so you can push yourself out of your comfort zone. Every instructor will give you hands-on feedback to help you shift your approach to character work when needed.
You also get amazing exposure through their monthly showcases, which feature external agency grading to help build your industry connections.
However, their schedule revolves almost entirely around weekends, which might limit your options if you have a busy calendar.
Customer Reviews
I’ve enjoyed every second of it!
I’ve been attending the Unseen acting school for a few months now and I’ve enjoyed every second of it! The tutors are amazing, everyone has their own unique way of teaching which has definitely helped me understand myself better as an actor. Meeting other actors and working with them over the weeks has also been a pleasure. Def recommend for people who want to keep practicing the craft, get better and actively pursue their dreams 🙂
- Gratsiela Petrova | Google Review
It has genuinely been one of the best decisions I’ve made
Starting at this acting school was my first experience of acting, and it has genuinely been one of the best decisions I’ve made. From my very first class, I knew I’d found something I truly loved and wanted to pursue.
What makes this school so special is the environment it creates. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable, passionate and generous with their experience, and each one brings a unique perspective that helps you grow both as an actor and as a person. I’ve learned so much, not just about acting, but also about confidence, creativity and trusting myself.
- Leyla Sitki | Google Review
2. London School of Dramatic Art (LSDA)
Website: https://lsda-acting.com/
Address: 4 Bute Street, South Kensington
Contact: 020 7581 6100; [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
The London School of Dramatic Art provides high-quality, intensive training aimed at preparing you for a professional acting career. Their programmes are designed to challenge developing artists whilst giving the practical tools needed to succeed.
The school keeps class sizes strictly between eight and 12 students. This ensures that everyone gets highly personalised tutoring tailored exactly to their unique needs.
You’ll receive honest, practical feedback from experienced teachers in every session. Their instructors are all working professionals, including Stephen Billington, who played Greg Kelly in Coronation Street.
You’re also treated like a professional and expected to attend all classes without exception, mirroring the discipline and rigour required in the acting industry.
However, the minimum age for these courses is 18, so younger teens can’t enrol. Another drawback is the £100 deposit just to confirm your place.
Customer Reviews
Probably the best decision I’ve ever made
I graduated this year from LSDA, I did the 2 years part time course in drama and that was one of the best experience I’ve ever had, probably the best decision I’ve ever made. I didn’t know many schools as I’m not from London or the UK and I’m so glad I went to LSDA, it was the perfect course for me. The quality of the school, the principal and the tutors are just amazing. I realized that with my experience itself there but also when I share my experience with other people of the industry.
- Léa McCulloch | Google Review
Different tools and techniques to take your acting and performing abilities to the next level
I recently graduated from the 1 year advanced course at LSDA and it was truly the best year of my life! This school provides its students with various different tools and techniques to take your acting and performing abilities to the next level. I had the opportunity step up my acting game in a safe and supportive environment and had so much fun in the process. The staff and students that I trained with were extremely uplifting and encouraging and I can confidently say that I have made friends for life.
- summer blake | Google Review
3. MX Masterclass | Musical Theatre & Screen Acting Training
Website: https://mxmasterclass.com/
Address: Old Diorama Arts Centre, 201 Drummond St
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Sunday, 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
MX Masterclass delivers West End and Broadway-focused training led by two-time Laurence Olivier Award nominee Michael Xavier. His deep background in theatre, film, and television heavily influences the curriculum.
The school offers specialised acting programmes separated by age groups. This way, everyone receives age-appropriate training tailored to their developmental and artistic needs.
Students gain access to an incredible roster of guest teachers who visit every term. You learn directly from active industry professionals, including actors, musical directors, and vocal coaches.
You also get comprehensive instruction that includes dancing and singing lessons, which is exactly what you need for theatre.
The main drawback is that all scheduling is on Sundays, leaving little flexibility if you have other commitments.
Customer Reviews
I can not express enough how professional , positive and nurturing the environment is
My daughter has only done one term at MX Masterclass but it feels like we have been part of MX for years . I can not express enough how professional , positive and nurturing the environment is from Michael himself, the AMAZING teachers and the incredibly talented students.
My daughter has found her people and we are honoured to be part of something so amazing. Sorry MX you will be stuck with us for the foreseeable 🤣 🫶
- Natalie Seymour | Google Review
I’ve had a fantastic experience with MX Masterclass
I’ve had a fantastic experience with MX Masterclass. Michael Xavier and Victoria Serra are exceptional teachers whose industry experience really shines through in every session. Their approach is supportive, insightful, and genuinely focused on helping each actor grow with confidence. The feedback is constructive, encouraging, and always practical. I couldn’t recommend MX Masterclass more highly to anyone serious about developing their craft.
- Andrés Alcover | Google Review
4. Drama Classes London
Website: https://dramaclasseslondon.com/
Address: 107 Leadenhall St
Contact: 07515 017485; [email protected]
Hours: Evening classes once a week for 3 hours
Drama Classes London offers structured evening training specifically designed for adults. Their curriculum spans beginner improvisation, advanced Viewpoints techniques, and public performances.
With this programme, you get a clear progression that helps you build your skills at a comfortable pace. This can sharpen your stage presence and develop your technique step by step.
You also spend a lot of time exploring character development and vocal techniques, guided by instructors who push you to reach your full potential.
Their instructors are highly experienced in film and, mainly, stage acting. This includes Fabrizio Matteini, who appeared in La Strada in the West End.
Unfortunately, classes only happen one evening a week. The full programme also spans three entire years, which requires a much longer-term commitment than most people expect.
Customer Reviews
One of the best decisions I’ve made!
Joining Drama Classes London turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made!Instructors made each session exciting and welcoming. The activities were fun, engaging, and helped me step out of my comfort zone and learn to express myself. I learned a lot about acting, expressing emotions, and working as a team. It is also a great way to meet amazing people. I highly recommend these classes to anyone looking to try something new and boost their confidence!
- Lala Mustafayeva | Google Review
The teachers are incredibly professional
Having never tried anything acting-related before, I was a bit hesitant when signing up for DCL. I couldn’t have been more pleasantly surprised. The teachers are incredibly professional, pouring their heart and soul into each class while creating a safe space where we can be vulnerable, explore theatre, have fun, and grow. On top of that, you become part of a fantastic international community that extends far beyond the classroom walls
- Fotis | Google Review
5. MN Actors Academy
Website: https://www.mnacademy.co.uk/
Address: Cromer Studios, Holy Cross Church, 98 Cromer St
Contact: 0207 052 4587; [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
MN Actors Academy runs in direct association with a leading talent management agency. This unique setup provides an incredible opportunity for their agents to scout new talent from the classroom.
The school caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals looking to refine their craft. They provide highly structured lessons that understand the current demands of film and television.
You learn practical skills in a professional, industry-focused environment. The programme will teach you to deliver sharp screen technique and modern performance skills.
However, you must attend a mandatory free audition day just to join the academy, which may create a barrier for those without prior acting experience.
Customer Reviews
I highly recommend MN to anyone looking to enhance their acting skills!
I recently took an acting class with Eliot, and it was an amazing experience! Eliot is an inspiring tutor who creates a supportive atmosphere that pushes you to grow. I’ve been able to break down complex techniques in a way that’s easy to understand and Eliot always provides constructive feedback that helps you improve. I highly recommend MN to anyone looking to enhance their acting skills!
- stuart zubrzycki | Google Review
After only one term I feel more stable & skilled as an actor
I can’t recommend MN Academy enough. After only one term I feel more stable & skilled as an actor.
Having a such an effective resource with decades of experience behind each of the tutors not only hones the craft but also encourages maturity regarding it.
Eliot made sure that we were not only challenged but also prepared for realities (good & bad) in the industry. As I continue training with them I know I will only keep improving.
If you’re serious about developing skills in film acting, check them out!
- Matthew Rowan | Google Review