Storybooks Come to Life – An Easy Road Trip Through England

Start your adventure at King’s Cross Station, snapping a photo at Platform 9¾ and feeling like you’re off to Hogwarts. Closest Underground Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras (0.1 miles, 2-minute walk). Free entry.

From there, head to Kensington Gardens to visit the Peter Pan Statue, telling stories about Peter Pan’s adventures. Closest Underground Station: Lancaster Gate (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk). Free entry.

Nearby, explore the Diana Memorial Playground, inspired by Peter Pan, with its huge wooden pirate ship and beach-inspired playground. Free entry.

For lunch, head to Pret A Manger near Kensington High Street. It’s a great spot for sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly snacks. Closest Underground Station: High Street Kensington (0.4 miles, 8-minute walk).

After a morning of fun, head to the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, just a mile away, to discover dinosaurs and explore the wonders of nature that inspired The Chronicles of Narnia. Closest Underground Station: South Kensington (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 1: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. How did you feel standing at Platform 9¾?
2. What was your favorite part of the Peter Pan statue?
3. What did the pirate ship in the playground remind you of?
4. What was the most interesting thing you saw at the Natural History Museum?
5. What was your favorite part of the day?

Begin your day at the Tower of London, where you can explore the historic castle, see the Crown Jewels, and hear tales of knights and queens. Closest Underground Station: Tower Hill (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk). Entry fee: £29.90 for adults, £14.90 for children.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Le Pain Quotidien near Tower Bridge. This bakery and café offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, and pastries. Closest Underground Station: Tower Hill (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk).

Next, head to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on Bankside to enjoy a playful tour and learn about Shakespeare’s magical characters. Closest Underground Station: London Bridge (0.5 miles, 10-minute walk). Entry fee: £17 for adults, £10 for children.

In the afternoon, take a short walk to the nearby Jubilee Gardens, a riverside park with a playground, perfect for some outdoor playtime. Closest Underground Station: Waterloo (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk). Free entry.

End your day with a ride on the London Eye for spectacular views of the city. Closest Underground Station: Waterloo (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk). Entry fee: £30 for adults, £24 for children.

Day 2: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you think of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London?
2. What magical character did you learn about at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre?
3. How did you enjoy playing at Jubilee Gardens?
4. What was your favorite view from the London Eye?
5. What was your favorite part of the entire day?

Start your day at Paddington Station to see the Paddington Bear statue and visit the Paddington Bear Shop. Closest Underground Station: Paddington (0.1 miles, 2-minute walk). Free entry.

Then, head to Little Venice, just a short walk away, to explore the picturesque canals that Paddington loves. Free entry.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Honest Burgers in Camden. They offer a variety of burgers, including vegetarian options, and delicious sides. Closest Underground Station: Camden Town (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk).

Take a boat ride along the Regent’s Canal to Camden Market. Closest Underground Station: Camden Town (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk), where you can explore the quirky shops and enjoy some delicious street food. Free entry to the market; boat ride approximately £10 per person.

For a Mary Poppins adventure, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, where you can feed the birds just like in the movie. Closest Underground Station: St. Paul’s (0.1 miles, 2-minute walk). Entry fee: £18 for adults, £8 for children.

From there, visit Admiral Boom’s House in Cherry Tree Lane (actually believed to be modeled after 50 Smith Street in Chelsea) and explore the beautiful neighborhood. Free entry.

End your day with some playtime at Coram’s Fields, a large playground and park that is perfect for families. Closest Underground Station: Russell Square (0.5 miles, 10-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 3: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you think of the Paddington Bear statue?
2. How did you enjoy the boat ride along the Regent’s Canal?
3. What was your favorite thing at Camden Market?
4. How did it feel to feed the birds at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
5. What was your favorite part of the entire day?

Take a day trip to the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden, Watford, 20 miles from central London. Explore the sets, costumes, and props that brought J.K. Rowling’s world to life. Entry fee: £49.95 for adults, £39.95 for children.

For lunch, stop at The Kitchen at Warner Bros. Studio Tour. They offer a variety of hot meals, sandwiches, and snacks suitable for kids.

On the way back to London, talk about your favorite scenes from the Harry Potter films and how they were created. Depart from Euston Station.

End the day with some outdoor playtime at University Parks, a large park perfect for families. Closest location: Parks Road, Oxford (0.5 miles, 10-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 4: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What magical creatures did you see at the Harry Potter Studio?
2. How did you feel seeing the sets from the Harry Potter films?
3. What was your favorite part of the studio tour?
4. Can you name one prop you saw today?
5. What scene from the films did you like the most?

Start your day with a visit to Christ Church College, exploring the Great Hall and learning about Lewis Carroll’s inspiration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Entry fee: £15 for adults, £7.50 for children.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Vaults & Garden Café. This café offers a variety of healthy, kid-friendly options and is located in the beautiful University Church gardens. Closest location: University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Radcliffe Square (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk).

Visit the exterior of the Bodleian Library, a filming location for Hogwarts, and admire the Radcliffe Camera.

Discover the charming Alice’s Shop, filled with Alice in Wonderland-themed items, and explore the grounds of Magdalen College, where C.S. Lewis taught and created Narnia. Entry fee: £8 for adults, £7 for children.

End your day with some playtime at Cutteslowe Park and Miniature Railway, where kids can ride a miniature train and play in the playground. Entry fee for the Miniature Railway: £1 per ride.

Day 5: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you imagine while walking through the Great Hall at Christ Church?
2. What story did Lewis Carroll write that was inspired by Alice Liddell?
3. How did the Bodleian Library make you feel? Did it remind you of Hogwarts?
4. What was your favorite thing at Alice’s Shop?
5. What magical land did C.S. Lewis create?

Spend another day in Oxford, starting with a visit to Alice’s Shop to hop into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. Free entry.

For lunch, try G&D’s Ice Cream Café. They offer a wide range of sandwiches, bagels, and delicious ice cream, making it a hit with kids. Closest location: 55 Little Clarendon St, Oxford (0.6 miles, 12-minute walk).

Then, visit Magdalen College again to delve deeper into the world of C.S. Lewis. Entry fee: £8 for adults, £7 for children.

Enjoy a picnic and play at University Parks, a large park perfect for families. Closest location: Parks Road, Oxford (0.5 miles, 10-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 6: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you find at Alice’s Shop?
2. If you could visit Wonderland, what would you do first?
3. What did you learn about C.S. Lewis today?
4. What magical creature would you like to meet in Narnia?
5. How did you enjoy playing at University Parks?

Travel to Cambridge, 65 miles from Oxford, and settle into your accommodation.

For lunch, try Fitzbillies, known for its delicious bakery items, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a Cambridge institution. Closest location: 51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge (0.4 miles, 8-minute walk).

Spend the afternoon exploring the town, perhaps visiting The Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses beautiful art collections. Free entry.

End your day with some outdoor playtime at Jesus Green, a large open space with a playground and plenty of room to run around. Closest location: Jesus Lane, Cambridge (0.7 miles, 14-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 7: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What was your favorite piece of art at The Fitzwilliam Museum?
2. How did you feel exploring Cambridge?
3. What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Visit the Wren Library, home to original Winnie the Pooh manuscripts. Free entry.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Copper Kettle, which offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly options. Closest location: 4-5 Kings Parade, Cambridge (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk).

Spend the afternoon punting on the River Cam, enjoying the quintessential Cambridge experience. Entry fee for punting: approximately £20 per boat for self-hire.

Play at Lammas Land, a riverside park with a playground, paddling pool, and plenty of green space. Free entry.

Day 8: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you think of the original Winnie the Pooh manuscripts?
2. How was your punt ride on the River Cam?
3. What games did you play at Lammas Land?
4. Did you make any new friends at the playground?
5. What was your favorite part of today?

Spend the day visiting the colleges of Cambridge University, particularly King’s College and its beautiful chapel. Entry fee: £10 for adults, £5 for children.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Bread & Meat, which offers hearty sandwiches and salads, perfect for families. Closest location: 4 Bene’t St, Cambridge (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk).

Explore the Cambridge University Botanic Garden and enjoy a leisurely picnic. Entry fee: £6 for adults, free for children under 16.

End the day with a visit to the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Free entry.

Day 9: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you enjoy most about visiting King’s College?
2. What new plants did you see at the Botanic Garden?
3. How did you feel exploring the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology?
4. What was your favorite part of the entire day?

Travel to Stratford-upon-Avon and settle into your accommodation.

Explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Entry fee: £17.50 for adults, £11.50 for children.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Fourteas, a 1940s-themed tearoom offering sandwiches, soups, and kid-friendly options. Closest location: 24 Sheep St, Stratford-upon-Avon (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk).

End your day with some outdoor playtime at Stratford-upon-Avon Recreation Ground, which has a large playground and plenty of green space for running around. Closest location: Swan’s Nest Ln, Stratford-upon-Avon (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 10: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you learn about Shakespeare’s childhood?
2. What story would you imagine in Anne Hathaway’s enchanted garden?
3. Did you play any new games at the playground?
4. What was your favorite part of today?
5. Can you name one character from Shakespeare’s plays?

Visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and imagine the enchanted gardens. Entry fee: £12.50 for adults, £8 for children.

For lunch, try Hathaway Tea Rooms & Bakery. They offer a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and afternoon tea options. Closest location: 19 High St, Stratford-upon-Avon (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk).

Play at The Recreation Ground, a riverside park with a playground and plenty of space to run around. Free entry.

Day 11: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What did you imagine while exploring Anne Hathaway’s Cottage?
2. What was your favorite thing at The Recreation Ground?
3. Which character from Shakespeare’s plays would you like to meet?

Travel back to London from Stratford-upon-Avon, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. Settle into your accommodation in London or near your departure airport.

For lunch, consider Pret A Manger for a quick and kid-friendly meal. Multiple locations around London.

Five Options for Exploration in London

Science Museum – Located in South Kensington, this museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are perfect for kids. Closest Underground Station: South Kensington (0.2 miles, 4-minute walk). Free entry.

Hyde Park – Spend the afternoon exploring one of London’s largest parks. You can rent a paddle boat on the Serpentine Lake or visit the playground. Closest Underground Station: Hyde Park Corner (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk). Free entry.

Covent Garden – Enjoy street performances, explore quirky shops, and maybe grab a snack at one of the many food stalls. Closest Underground Station: Covent Garden (0.1 miles, 2-minute walk). Free entry to the area.

The British Museum – Discover treasures from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Closest Underground Station: Tottenham Court Road (0.3 miles, 6-minute walk). Free entry.

Hampstead Heath – A large, ancient park with playgrounds, swimming ponds, and lovely walking trails. Closest Underground Station: Hampstead (0.5 miles, 10-minute walk). Free entry.

Day 12: Bedtime Reflection Questions for Kids

1. What was your favorite part of today’s exploration in London?
2. Did you learn something new at the Science Museum or British Museum?
3. How did you enjoy playing or relaxing in the park?
4. What was your favorite street performance or shop at Covent Garden?
5. Are you excited about the journey home and sharing your adventures?

London

London’s history dates back over 2,000 years, beginning with its founding by the Romans as Londinium in AD 43. It evolved into a significant trade center.

During the Middle Ages, London became the political and economic hub of England. Iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey emerged, establishing the city as a center of power and culture.

Oxford and Cambridge

Oxford and Cambridge are home to the two oldest universities in the English-speaking world, founded in the 12th and 13th centuries, respectively. These universities became pivotal centers of education and intellectual life, attracting scholars and notable figures throughout history.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is famously known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, born in 1564. This market town retains much of its historic charm and is a focal point for exploring the life and works of the world’s most celebrated playwright.

Modern Developments

In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution transformed England, with London expanding rapidly. The cultural and scientific advancements during this period significantly shaped modern England.

Prepare your family for a delicious culinary adventure in England, where British cuisine is known for its hearty flavors and traditions. England offers a variety of classic dishes that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Fish and Chips is a quintessential British dish featuring crispy battered fish served with thick-cut fries. It’s a must-try for families, often enjoyed with a dash of vinegar or a side of mushy peas.

Full English Breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. It’s a hearty and filling way to start the day, offering a variety of flavors that kids will love.

Yorkshire Pudding is a savory pudding made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk. Often served with roast beef and gravy, it’s a delicious and fun addition to a traditional British meal.

Cornish Pasties are pastry pockets filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. These hand-held pies are perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go, making them a hit with kids.

Toad in the Hole features sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter, often served with gravy and vegetables. It’s a comforting and kid-friendly dish that’s both fun to say and eat.

Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam are a delightful treat, especially enjoyed during afternoon tea. The soft, slightly sweet scones topped with rich clotted cream and fruity jam are sure to be a favorite.

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a rich and moist sponge cake made with dates and covered in a warm toffee sauce. This classic dessert is always a hit with its sweet, caramelized flavor.

Bangers and Mash consists of sausages served with mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that kids will find familiar and delicious.

Shepherd’s Pie is a savory dish made with minced lamb, vegetables, and a mashed potato topping. It’s a wholesome and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

Victoria Sponge Cake is a light and fluffy cake filled with jam and whipped cream. Named after Queen Victoria, this classic cake is a delightful treat for any sweet tooth.

From hearty breakfasts to sweet treats, British cuisine offers a wonderful array of family-friendly dishes that will make mealtime an exciting part of your trip.

Here are 10 fun and creative craft projects for kids ages 5 – 13 to bring the magic of England to life on your trip, each with helpful links to tutorials.

Mini Big Ben Clock 

Materials: Cardboard, paper, markers, glue. Kids can create their own mini Big Ben using cardboard. Follow this simple tutorial to help them design their iconic clock tower.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Model

Materials: Paper, cardboard, markers, glue. Children can craft a model of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. This detailed tutorial will guide them through the process.

Oxford University Crest Materials 

Paper, markers, crayons. Kids can draw and color the crest of Oxford University. Check out this crest-making guide for inspiration.

Cambridge Punting Boat Materials 

Popsicle sticks, glue, paint. Children can build a mini punting boat with Popsicle sticks. This tutorial shows how to create fun wooden crafts.

Stratford-upon-Avon Tudor House 

Materials: Paper, cardboard, markers, glue. Kids can design their own Tudor house inspired by Shakespeare’s birthplace. This step-by-step guide is perfect for this project.

Harry Potter Wand 

Materials: Wooden dowels, paint, glue, beads. Children can craft their own magical wands just like Harry Potter. Follow this wand-making tutorial to get started.

London Eye Ferris Wheel 

Materials: Paper plates, markers, glue, string. Kids can make a model of the London Eye using paper plates. This craft tutorial provides easy steps for creating a Ferris wheel.

Alice in Wonderland Mad Hatter Hat 

Materials: Paper, cardboard, markers, glue. Inspired by Oxford, children can make their own Mad Hatter hat. This fun hat-making guide will help them create whimsical headwear.

Cambridge University Bookmarks 

Materials: Clay or Play-Doh. Children can sculpt a mini Stonehenge from clay. This video tutorial shows how to make simple clay models of famous landmarks.

Here are 10 fun and simple learning games for you to play with your kids while exploring England, designed to enhance your family’s adventure without any preparation. Yay! 

I Spy Landmarks – Play “I Spy” with famous landmarks. For example, “I spy with my little eye, something tall and clock-like” (Big Ben).

Snap the Landmark – Challenge kids to take photos of famous landmarks as you visit them. See who can capture the most.

Who Am I? – Describe a famous English historical figure without saying their name, and let the kids guess who it is. For example, “I wrote many plays, including ‘Hamlet’ and ‘Romeo and Juliet'” (William Shakespeare).

Monument Mimic – At each landmark, have the kids mimic a pose or action related to the landmark. For example, pretending to be a guard at Buckingham Palace.

Count the Red Buses – While walking around London, see who can count the most red double-decker buses.

Accent Mimicry – Encourage kids to mimic the British accent they hear around them. It’s fun and helps them engage with the local culture.

Historical Snap – Ask kids to snap pictures of any historical plaques or signs they find interesting.

Nature Spotting – While in parks like Hyde Park or the Oxford Botanic Garden, challenge kids to spot different types of birds, trees, or flowers.

Royal Watch – While visiting royal sites, see who can spot the most royal symbols, like crowns, crests, or royal guards.

As you’re gearing up for your family adventure in England, immersing yourself in the country’s rich history and culture can greatly enhance your experience. 

These bestselling historical fiction novels set in England, written in the past 30 years, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the events, people, and places you’ll encounter on your journey. By reading these captivating stories, you’ll be well-equipped to share fascinating insights and context with your family, making your trip even more enriching and memorable.

“The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett – While technically set in the fictional town of Kingsbridge, this epic novel provides an immersive look into the life and architecture of 12th-century England. Goodreads

“Sarum: The Novel of England” by Edward Rutherfurd – An expansive novel that traces the history of England through the lens of the ancient settlement of Sarum, offering a detailed and engaging journey through time. Goodreads

“Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel – A historical fiction novel set in the court of Henry VIII, offering a vivid portrayal of Tudor England and the political landscape that influenced Shakespeare’s work. Goodreads

“The Other Boleyn Girl” by Philippa Gregory – A historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Anne Boleyn and the intrigues of Henry VIII’s court, offering a backdrop to the Tudor history significant to many English landmarks. Goodreads

“The Miniaturist” by Jessie Burton – Set in 17th-century London, this novel weaves a mysterious and atmospheric tale centered around a young bride and a cabinet house that mirrors her own home. Goodreads

“The Tea Rose” by Jennifer Donnelly – A sweeping historical novel set in the East End of London during the late 19th century, following the life of a young woman who overcomes adversity to achieve her dreams. Goodreads

“The Forgotten Garden” by Kate Morton – A multi-generational saga that takes readers from the early 20th century to the present, with pivotal scenes set in the picturesque English countryside. Goodreads

“The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield – Set in a crumbling mansion in Yorkshire, this novel weaves a gothic tale of family secrets and storytelling. Goodreads

“The Butterfly Room” by Lucinda Riley – Set in the Suffolk countryside, this novel tells the multi-generational story of the women of the Marchmont family and their secrets, spanning decades. Goodreads

“Remarkable Creatures” by Tracy Chevalier – Based on the true story of Mary Anning, this novel is set in early 19th-century Lyme Regis and explores the discoveries of fossils and the challenges faced by women in science. Goodreads

Enjoy your magical journey through England, filled with history, art, culture, and memorable experiences for the whole family!

As you’re gearing up for your family adventure in England, immersing your children in the country’s rich history and culture can greatly enhance their experience. These historical fiction novels set in England will provide a deeper understanding of the events, people, and places they’ll encounter on your journey. By reading these captivating stories, your children will be well-equipped to share fascinating insights and context, making your trip even more enriching and memorable.

Books Referenced in the Itinerary

“Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter
Reading Level: Grades K-3
Follow the adventures of Peter Rabbit in the charming English countryside, filled with lush green landscapes and adorable woodland creatures.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Winnie-the-Pooh” by A.A. Milne
Reading Level: Grades 1-4
Join Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, inspired by Ashdown Forest, in a series of delightful and whimsical adventures.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Paddington Bear” by Michael Bond
Reading Level: Grades 2-5
Discover the heartwarming adventures of Paddington Bear, from his arrival at Paddington Station to his explorations of London, including Portobello Road.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Peter Pan” by J.M. Barrie
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Experience the timeless magic of Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens and Neverland, where the boy who never grew up embarks on fantastical adventures.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Mary Poppins” by P.L. Travers
Reading Level: Grades 3-6
Follow the enchanting adventures of Mary Poppins as she arrives at the Banks family home in London, bringing magic and wonder to their lives.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Step into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s time in Oxford, filled with surreal and playful characters.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Explore the magical land of Narnia, beginning in the English countryside, where four siblings embark on an epic adventure.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Discover the magical world of Hogwarts, with scenes inspired by Oxford’s Great Hall, as Harry Potter begins his journey into wizardry.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Join Rat, Mole, and Toad on their charming riverbank adventures along the peaceful banks of the River Thames.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Sword in the Stone” by T.H. White
Reading Level: Grades 5-8
Delve into the medieval legends of King Arthur’s England, beginning with the enchanting story of young Arthur and his mentor, Merlin.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Tales from Shakespeare” by Charles Lamb and Mary Lamb
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Transport your children to the world of William Shakespeare with these retellings of his timeless plays, perfect for young readers.
Goodreads | Amazon

Additional Reading

“The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Set in the Yorkshire moors, this classic novel follows Mary Lennox, a lonely orphan who discovers a hidden, neglected garden that transforms her life.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Goodnight Mister Tom” by Michelle Magorian
Reading Level: Grades 6-8
Set during World War II, this heartwarming story follows a young evacuee named Willie Beech who finds solace and friendship in the English countryside with a reclusive old man named Tom.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The War that Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
During World War II, a young girl named Ada escapes her abusive mother and finds freedom and a new life in the English countryside.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens
Reading Level: Grades 6-8
Follow the adventures of Oliver, an orphan in Victorian London, as he navigates a world filled with hardship, crime, and ultimately, hope.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Carrie’s War” by Nina Bawden
Reading Level: Grades 4-6
Set during World War II, this novel follows Carrie and her brother Nick, who are evacuated from London to the Welsh countryside and face new challenges and adventures.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Wolves of Willoughby Chase” by Joan Aiken
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Set in an alternate history of England, this thrilling adventure follows two brave girls who must protect their home from treacherous wolves and evil guardians.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Remarkable Creatures” by Tracy Chevalier
Reading Level: Grades 5-8
Based on the true story of Mary Anning, this novel is set in early 19th-century Lyme Regis and explores the discoveries of fossils and the challenges faced by women in science.
Goodreads | Amazon

High School Level Reading

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Reading Level: Grades 9-12
Set in the early 19th century, this classic novel follows the life and romantic misadventures of Elizabeth Bennet and her family in rural England.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë
Reading Level: Grades 9-12
This novel tells the story of Jane Eyre, an orphan who becomes a governess and falls in love with her employer, Mr. Rochester, while uncovering dark secrets.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Atonement” by Ian McEwan
Reading Level: Grades 10-12
Set before, during, and after World War II, this novel explores themes of love, war, and guilt as seen through the eyes of a young girl whose misunderstanding leads to a lifetime of consequences.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Remains of the Day” by Kazuo Ishiguro
Reading Level: Grades 10-12
Through the eyes of an English butler, this novel reveals the complexities of duty, loyalty, and the passage of time in post-World War II England.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
Reading Level: Grades 9-12
Although primarily set in Nazi Germany, this novel includes significant reflections on the impact of World War II in England, exploring themes of humanity and resilience.
Goodreads | Amazon

Enjoy your magical journey through England, filled with history, art, culture, and memorable experiences for the whole family!

To measure the success of each day, use these reflective questions:

• Did my child experience and explore curiosity today in England?
• Did my child make connections between people, places, and ideas they encountered in England?
• Did my child practice creativity in some way today in England?
• Did my child demonstrate more courage in facing any new challenges today in England?
• Did my child grow in conscientiousness today while exploring England.

Harry Potter Studio Tour – £49.95 for adults ($61.94), £39.95 for children ($49.54)

Tower of London – £29.90 for adults ($37.08), £14.90 for children ($18.48)

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – £17 for adults ($21.08), £10 for children ($12.40)

London Eye – £30 for adults ($37.20), £24 for children ($29.76)

St. Paul’s Cathedral – £18 for adults ($22.32), £8 for children ($9.92)

Christ Church College – £15 for adults ($18.60), £7.50 for children ($9.30)

Magdalen College – £8 for adults ($9.92), £7 for children ($8.68)

Cutteslowe Park Miniature Railway – £1 per ride ($1.24)

King’s College Chapel – £10 for adults ($12.40), £5 for children ($6.20)

Cambridge University Botanic Garden – £6 for adults ($7.44), free for children under 16

Shakespeare’s Birthplace – £17.50 for adults ($21.70), £11.50 for children ($14.26)

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – £12.50 for adults ($15.50), £8 for children ($9.92)

Punting on the River Cam – approximately £20 per boat for self-hire ($24.80)

Natural History Museum – Free entry

Peter Pan Statue in Kensington Gardens – Free entry

Diana Memorial Playground – Free entry

University Parks, Oxford – Free entry

Alice’s Shop, Oxford – Free entry

The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge – Free entry

Jesus Green, Cambridge – Free entry

Wren Library, Cambridge – Free entry

Lammas Land, Cambridge – Free entry

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge – Free entry

The British Museum – Free entry

Hyde Park – Free entry

Covent Garden – Free entry to the area

Hampstead Heath – Free entry

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes (for exploring cities and countryside)
• Waterproof jacket (for unpredictable weather)
• Layered clothing (England’s weather can vary)
• Casual and comfortable outfits (for day trips and sightseeing)
• Dressier outfit (for dining or special outings)
• Pajamas
• Undergarments and socks
• Sun hat and sunglasses (for sunny days)
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarf (if traveling during cooler months)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap or body wash
• Hairbrush or comb
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Hand sanitizer
• Personal medications
• Travel-sized first aid kit

For the Kids

• Favorite stuffed animal or comfort item
• Books and travel journals
• Small toys or games for downtime
• Reusable water bottles
• Snacks for the road
• Extra set of clothes for each child (accidents happen!)
• Baby wipes and diapers (if needed)

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Camera and extra batteries/charger
• Tablet or e-reader
• Plug adapters (UK uses Type G plugs)

Travel Essentials

• Passports and travel documents
• Printed itinerary and accommodation details
• Travel insurance documents
• Credit cards and some cash (British pounds)
• Maps or travel guides
• Tickets for attractions and tours

Outdoor and Activity Gear

• Backpack or daypack
• Picnic blanket (for parks and outdoor meals)
• Binoculars (for nature spotting)
• Compact umbrella
• Swimwear (for pools or beaches)
• Travel-size games and activities for the car/train

Special Items for Themed Adventures

• Harry Potter costumes or accessories (for the studio tour)
• Paddington Bear plush or book (for Paddington-themed activities)
• Peter Pan or fairy tale costumes (for Kensington Gardens)
• Alice in Wonderland-themed items (for Oxford adventures)
• Shakespeare-related books or props (for Stratford-upon-Avon)

Craft Supplies for Itinerary-Themed Projects

• Cardboard (for Mini Big Ben Clock and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Model)
• Paper (for various crafts)
• Markers and crayons (for coloring and drawing)
• Glue sticks and liquid glue (for assembling models)
• Scissors (child-safe)
• Popsicle sticks (for the Cambridge Punting Boat)
• Paints and brushes (for painting projects)
• Beads and wooden dowels (for Harry Potter Wand)
• String (for London Eye Ferris Wheel)
• Paper plates (for London Eye Ferris Wheel)
• Clay or Play-Doh (for Stonehenge Model)
• Ribbons (for Cambridge University Bookmarks)

Extra Tips

• Pack light layers for varying weather conditions
• Bring a reusable shopping bag (handy for markets and shops)
• Ensure all bags are labeled with contact information
• Keep a small notepad and pen handy for notes and reflections