London History & Culture School Trip

Morning

Start your day at the Palace of Westminster. Learn about the House of Commons and the House of Lords, where the British Parliament sit. Westminster has governed Great Britain for centuries, and layers of history lie within its walls. You might even get a chance to watch a debate, in which MPs discuss current issues!

Afternoon

Take a walk through the Westminster area and stand before Buckingham Palace and St. James’ Park. Head to the Churchill War Rooms, the underground bunker where Churchill and his war cabinet found shelter from bombing and plotted their way to victory during WW2.

Evening

In the evening, people-watch in Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, where the city lights never go out!

Morning/Afternoon

Hop on a coach to Hampton Court, a royal palace, first built in the early 16^th century and opened to the public in the 19^th century by Queen Victoria. Walk in the footsteps of the royals. Visit Henry VIII’s apartments, the Great Hall, the Tudor kitchens and the magnificent gardens. If you’ve got time on your hands – try to find your way through one of the world’s oldest hedge mazes!

Morning

Listen up as a history professional (think an archivist or a curator) gives you a talk. Then ask your burning questions in the Q&A segment.

Afternoon

Travel back in time at Dennis Severs House! The building presents a “still life drama” of what life would have been like for a family of Huguenot silk weavers in the 17^th century. Wander through its 10 rooms in silence, using all of your senses to catch every detail in this magical, historically accurate reconstruction.

Evening

Relax this evening as you shop in Westfield London, the biggest shopping centre in Europe.

Morning

Another blast from the past today. Head back to Roman-era Londinium and visit the Mithraeum, an underground temple dedicated to the cult of the god Mithras. Marvel at ancient artifacts, exhibitions and digital projections of how the temple used to be. Next up, hit the Tower of London and explore the fortress to gain a better understanding of its history and its many inhabitants, from royals to ravens!

Afternoon

Once you’ve refuelled at lunch, go on a guided walk in Leadenhall Market, a magnificent 14^th century covered market, often used as a film set. Head to Tower Bridge to learn more about this amazing London landmark, its history and workings. If you’re feeling brave, enjoy the view of the River Thames from above Tower Bridge’s spectacular glass floor.

Evening

In the evening, spend some time browsing the food stalls from all over the world in the South Bank Market, and pick out a new cuisine to try!

Morning

Visit UCL, a world-class university with a History department with a history of its own – the department dates back to 1830! Get a closer look at what studying a subject like History looks like. Take a tour of the campus led by a current student. They’ll introduce you to the university, student life and the courses on offer.

Afternoon

Learn to play (muggle) Quidditch, a sport that has moved from the Harry Potter books and films into the real world! A member of London’s Quidditch Premier League or the UK National Team Coach will take you through warm-ups, drills, tactics and some final matches. Sorry, folks – no flying involved!

Evening

Spend the evening on Oxford Street and pick up some souvenirs.

Morning

London’s world-famous for its diversity. Learn about the waves of migrants that shaped certain neighbourhoods at 19 Princelet Street, a unique exhibition-museum in Spitalfields.

Afterwards, head to Postman’s Park, the location of a memorial for ordinary people in history who gave their lives to save others. If you’re not taking advantage of the Culture extension trip, then sadly it’s home time! Listen to a trip debriefing and take part in a reflection session, before heading back to your accommodation and preparing for departure.

Afternoon

If you’re continuing your trip (yay!), spend the evening at Westminster Abbey, one of the most important churches in London’s history. This is where William the Conqueror was crowned in 1066 and – in very recent history – it’s where William and Kate tied the knot! Explore the coronation site, the Royal Tombs, Poets’ Corner and dozens of other highlights.

Morning

Explore the West End (London’s theatre district) on a guided walking tour and quiz your guide about all the gossip in theatreland! Visit Chinatown with your guide. There are sculptures of noses and ears hidden all over Soho and Covent Garden – take part in the photo scavenger hunt to find them!

Afternoon

Head over to quirky Shoreditch for a walking tour of London’s street art scene. East London is home to one of the biggest collections of uncommissioned street art in the world, including those of the anonymous Banksy. Then, enjoy some free time exploring the stalls. Chat to local creatives and artisans in Old Spitalfields Market.

Evening

Spend a chilled evening enjoying the view of London from above at the Sky Garden in 20 Fenchurch Street, one of the tallest buildings in London.

Morning

Travel to Cambridge (2hrs by coach). Led by a former Cambridge student, take a walking tour of the city and its many colleges and then take some punts (long narrow boats) on River Cam to enjoy fantastic views of the college “Backs” and bridges.

Afternoon

Next, we climb the steps to the top of Great St. Mary’s Church. Then, enjoy the hustle and bustle of Market Square. Take part in another photo scavenger hunt challenge, before saying a fond farewell and heading back to London.