Bristol Bachata | Mondays & Wednesday classes & parties @ Totos By The River

Bristol Bachata runs weekly sensual bachata classes and social dancing sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays at Totos By The River, a riverside venue in Redcliffe. Classes run from 7:30–9:30pm with three levels: Beginners, Improvers, and Intermediate/Advanced. After class, from 9:30–11:15pm, there's a party and practice session where you can dance socially until late.

Classes focus on fun moves, isolations, dips and waves, lead/follow technique, musicality and styling, and building connection and confidence on the dancefloor. Sensual bachata itself—the style taught here—was created in Cádiz, Spain, by Korke Escalona and Judith Cordero. It uses mostly circular movements and body waves, with isolations and dips when the music has stronger beats.

Founded by Jan Tabaka seven years ago, Bristol Bachata is recognized as one of the biggest and friendliest bachata schools in the UK and has been featured on BBC One and BBC Four. Jan has 12+ years of bachata sensual dancing experience and trained under the creators Korke and Judith, as well as many top teachers worldwide. He teaches alongside resident teachers Thomais, Ish, Mariana, Sharooq, Giselle, John, Mishel, Paulina, Ed and Becca, with international guest teachers appearing at special events.

The venue itself is an amazing relaxed, dance-friendly and inclusive space with great lights and sound system, well ventilated with great river views and a sun terrace. It's centrally located with easy access by car, bike, bus or foot. There's a bar on site (no outside drinks allowed), toilets, and paid parking all around plus free parking on single yellow lines after 6pm on Redcliff Street in front of the venue.

No partner or booking is needed—just show up and dance. New absolute beginners can claim a free first class by registering with Jan via direct message or WhatsApp. Bristol Bachata also offers private classes, event hire, and runs big monthly parties featuring international teachers and DJ sets.

A welcoming, social evening of sensual bachata: you'll take a structured class at your level, then move into a late-night party where you can practice with other dancers. The venue has a river view, good sound and lighting, and a relaxed atmosphere where no partner is required.

Founded and taught by Jan Tabaka, a fitness trainer and acrobatics instructor with 12+ years of sensual bachata experience trained under creators Korke and Judith. He teaches alongside resident teachers Thomais, Ish, Mariana, Sharooq, Giselle, John, Mishel, Paulina, Ed and Becca, with international guest artists appearing at special parties.

Classes are split by level with a dedicated Beginners track, and new absolute beginners get a free first class.