Day 3: Hampton Court
Morning/Afternoon
Hop on a coach to Hampton Court, a royal palace, first built in the early 16th century and opened to the public in the 19th 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!
Day 4: Silk and Shopping
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 17th 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.
Day 5: Roman Mithraeum
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 14th 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!
Day 6: University and Quidditch
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.
Day 7: London’s Diversity
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.
Extension Day 1: Theatre and Art
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.
Extension Day 2: Cambridge Day Trip
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.
Extension Day 3: Farewell!
Morning
Spend your final morning exploring Hyde Park with your guide. Admire the beautiful garden and appreciate Princess Diana Memorial Fountain and Serpentine Lake. Feed nuts to the friendly squirrels…or eat some yourself if you’re peckish. Then, play some fun team games, before finding Speaker’s Corner and giving a persuasive speech.
Finally, it’s home time. But it’s not over – the UK’s history and culture will follow you back to the classroom…and beyond!
