London
The capital of the UK offers a huge variety of learning opportunities for any subject. With a unique culture, rich history and unrivalled theatre district, London provides endless possibilities for those studying culture, history, architecture, literature and drama.
Curriculum Links:
Linked to Cultural, History, Art and Drama
PLACES TO VISIT
London Eye
The London Eye, built to celebrate the beginning of the 21st century is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel at 135m high, providing unrivalled views across the London skyline.
West End theatres
London's West End is one of the world's best-loved theatre districts, offering over 35 incredible venues and a huge selection of shows, plays and musicals.
The London Dungeon
Explore London's less glamorous history at The London Dungeon. The attraction takes an entertaining, dark-humoured approach to education with actors portraying some of London's unsavoury historical figures including Sweeney Todd and Jack the Ripper.
Thames River Cruise
The River Thames flows through the heart of London and was once the most important channel of industry in the country. A cruise on the river provides outstanding views of the ancient buildings that lie on its banks.
Planet Hollywood
Inspired by the glitz and glamour of LA's most best-loved region, Planet Hollywood brings iconic movie props and signed merchandise to the dinner table.
Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock Cafe surrounds its diners with iconic memorabilia, including guitars, clothing and signed records whilst serving up delicious American-themed food.
Natural History Museum & Geological Museum
The Natural History Museum is a world-leading research centre and one of the UK’s most popular attractions, welcoming over five million visitors each year to its galleries, exhibitions and education programmes.
Itinerary Example
3-Day Creative Capital: London Art, Design & Culture
Bring visual arts, architecture, and contemporary design to life in the heart of the UK capital. Designed for Art & Design, Media Studies, and Creative Arts travellers, this 3-day residential explores world-class galleries, historic monuments, and creative hubs—offering firsthand research, portfolio inspiration, and cultural enrichment.
Day 1: Arrival, Modern Art & South Bank Exploration (Modern & Contemporary Focus)
Day 1
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in London by coach or train. Check into your accommodation centre, then head to the South Bank to visit Tate Modern, exploring world-famous modern art collections, installation art in the Turbine Hall, and city views from the Blavatnik Building.
Evening: Take a scenic group walk along the vibrant South Bank, passing the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, and Millennium Bridge. Enjoy a hot group meal in central London.
Day 2: Design, Sculpture & West End Experience (Applied Arts & Performance)
Day 2
Morning: Depart after breakfast for Kensington to visit the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), investigating world textiles, fashion history, ceramics, and international design.
Afternoon: Walk across to the Design Museum in Kensington or head to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square to analyze classical painting, portraiture, and composition.
Evening: Enjoy a group dinner followed by an optional West End Theatre Show or a guided evening walking tour of London's iconic landmarks.
Day 3: Street Art, Creative Markets & Homeward Journey (Urban Culture & Visual Research)
Day 3
Morning: Check out after breakfast. Head east to Shoreditch & Spitalfields Market for a guided street art walking tour, observing public murals, graphic design, and urban visual culture.
Afternoon/Evening: Complete final portfolio sketching and visual research before boarding the coach/train for your homeward journey back to your organisation.
Optional En-Route Visits & Extensions
Depending on your your organisation's location, exam board syllabus, and schedule, popular add-on stops for this route include:
Tate Britain (Pimlico): Focus on British art from 1500 to the present day, including extensive Turner collections and Pre-Raphaelite works.
The Hayward Gallery (Southbank Centre): Explore cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions and brutalist architecture.
Saatchi Gallery (Chelsea): View contemporary art by young and emerging international artists.
Covent Garden & Royal Opera House: Ideal for media, performing arts, and visual culture workshops.
Note on Transport & Logistics: London itineraries can be arranged using dedicated coach travel or via 24-hour London Underground/Bus group travelcards depending on your preferences.
PLACES TO STAY
YHA London Thameside
320-bed hostel in Rotherhithe, budget-friendly private and shared en-suite rooms near the Thames. 24/7 reception, Cafe/bar, self-catering kitchen, luggage storage. Located in Zone 2, excellent transport links via the Rotherhithe Overground and nearby bus routes, easy access to central London and the O2 Arena.
Pax Lodge
Pax Lodge is an international gathering place for the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
The Centre also operates as a Hostel and is ideal destination for schools, youth groups, individuals and even families who would like to experience a unique home-like environment.