Arcadia England

We are looking forward to welcoming you to the UK in September! To help you make the most of your time here, we offer a series of subsidised and free excursions to suit all budgets and interests, from afternoon visits to lesser-known London gems to weekend trips showcasing the best of the UK, from Scotland to Wales! Below you can find everything we have on offer this Fall!

Paid excursions

These excursions are offered for a fee but are heavily subsidised. They are led by experienced Arcadia staff, and the itineraries have been curated to include a mix of bucket-list items and lesser-known treasures. 

Windsor Castle (Saturday the 5th October)

This tour offers a chance to navigate through one of the world's most iconic and continuously inhabited castle. Once stepping through the gates, you will embark on a journey through years of British monarchy and history, including acting as the military headquarters during the English Civil War. Explore St. George’s Chapel, the location of countless royal events including the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markel, as well as the site of multiple burials. This self-guided tour allows you to wander at your own pace and take in the scenes of the oldest inhabited castle in the world. Afterwards you’ll have time to explore the beautiful town of Windsor, or head across the Thames to Eton, where Princes William and Harry went to school.

Accessibility: The castle provides step-free access routes, though some sections may have uneven surfaces typical of historic sites. Moderate walking is required to fully appreciate the castle and its grounds..

Price includes: return travel from London to Windsor; entry to Windsor Castle

Cost: $35

Scottish Borders Regional Trip with our Friends from Arcadia Ireland and Arcadia Scotland (Friday the 11th October - Sunday the 13th October)

This Scottish cultural snapshot, led by our friends in Arcadia Scotland, will see you take part in traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing and visit the Scottish Borders for a tour of a historic Abbey and visit to Traquair House, Scotland's oldest inhabited house. Based in an Edinburgh hotel, you will also have time to explore the Scottish capital.

Accessibility: Some walking including on uneven grounds at historic sites, as well as dancing, although optional.

Price Includes: return travel from London to Edinburgh; travel for the weekend; hotel bed and breakfast accommodation in twin rooms; one group meal; entry to ceilidh and Melrose Abbey; tour of Traquair House

Cost: $430

Paris Trip (Sunday the 20th October - Tuesday the 22nd October)

Tick off a top bucket list item this three-day trip to Paris! You’ll glide into the centre of Paris on the Eurostar, and later that day will receive a Metro pass to allow you to explore the city easily. Once settled join us on a walking tour, familiarising yourself with the beautiful city and Parisian culture. Immerse yourself into history and art at the Louvre where some of the world’s best masterpieces reside.Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, where you will get the opportunity to rise to the top and see Paris for all it really is in beautiful panoramic views.  

Accessibility: Some walking, including on uneven ground at historic sites. Unfortunately as we will be staying in a hostel it will not be possible to make individual accommodations, such as single rooms. If you are a non-US passport holder check if an additional visa is required to attend this trip. Unfortunately it is not possible for those with Visitor status to apply for a Schengen visa from within the UK.

Price includes: return travel on the Eurostar; bed and breakfast accommodation; entry to the Louvre and Eiffel Tower; walking tour; one group meal; 3-day metro pass

Cost: $360

Wales Adventure Weekend (Friday the 25th October - Sunday the 27th October)

Come with us on a visit to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales and enjoy an action-packed weekend at the Sealyham Activity Centre. Here you will be participating in a range of adrenaline-filled activities both on land and in the sea, led by experienced instructors, and will have a chance to explore one of Britain’s most dramatic areas in its smallest nation. 

Accessibility: Activities are optional but will involve strenuous activity, walking on uneven surfaces, and water. Participants should be confident swimmers. All safety equipment will be provided and activities will be led by qualified instructors.

Price includes: all travel, meals and accommodation; all activities, with expert instructors

Cost: $400

Edinburgh Weekend (Friday the 8th November - Sunday the 10th November)

Join us for a weekend in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, familiarising yourself with its history, culture and even (if you choose!) food! Start off with a walking tour, getting acquainted with the area which will be your stomping ground for the weekend. Take a hike up the extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat, and enjoy stunning views of the city and out to the sea beyond. Next, visit the historic Edinburgh Castle, and see how it was utilised as a royal residence, treasury, and prison among many other uses. 

Accessibility: Some walking including on uneven surfaces in historic sites. Edinburgh castle provides accessible paths for those who need extra assistance

Price Includes: train to and from London and Edinburgh; bed and breakfast accommodation in dormitory-style accommodation; walking tour; entry to Edinburgh Castle; one group meal on the first night

Cost: $299

Kenwood Christmas Lights (Friday the 6th December)

Venture to one of London’s largest parks, Hampstead Heath, and embrace the festive spirit through the trail of lights. Walk the 2km trail to the historic Kenwood House and be prepared to be dazzled by an array of displays and soundscapes. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase festive snacks at a range of Christmas market-style stalls around the trail. 

Accessibility: Includes walking on uneven and possible muddy surfaces as it is weather dependent on the state of the trail

Price includes: entry to Kenwood lights

Cost: $30

Stonehenge and Salisbury (Saturday the 7th December)

Embark on an adventure around Stonehenge and Salisbury. In Stonehenge, discover the prehistoric monument that continues to stump scholars and archaeologists for millennia. Next, the tour will lead to Salisbury, and stroll around the town and enjoy the markets, pubs and sites it has to offer. Whilst there, experience the Cathedral that contains the original copy of the Magna Carta, and features the world's oldest working clock. 

Accessibility: Expect to navigate uneven pathways around Stonehenge and the cobbled streets of Salisbury. The sites have made considerable efforts to improve accessibility, but some areas might still be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Price includes: return coach travel from London; entry to Stonehenge; entry to Salisbury Cathedral

Cost: $74

Hidden London

Our Hidden London excursions aim to showcase aspects of the capital that are not on the traditional tourist itinerary. All these events are FREE! You will be able to sign up for these approximately 2 weeks before each trip is due to run, so keep an eye on Portal!

Cat Cafe (Friday the 20 September)

Experience the tranquillity of the Cat Cafe, a unique blend of a coffee house's warmth and the calming presence of friendly felines. This unique experience combines the cozy ambiance of a coffee shop with the therapeutic presence of cats, creating a space where you can unwind, read a book, or simply bask in the serene atmosphere.

Accessibility: The cafe is thoughtfully designed to accommodate all visitors, with accessibility considerations in place. However, it's important to note that the presence of roaming cats may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with cat allergies.

Queer Britain Museum (Friday the 27th September)

Venture to the UK’s first and only permanent museum dedicated to Queer history. The museum marks and celebrates moments in the history of UK LGBTQ+ community’s struggles, achievements and contributions to British society.

Accessibility: Queer Britain prides itself on being accessible to all, ensuring that every visitor can comfortably explore the exhibits and engage with the stories being told.

Mudchute City Farm (Friday the 1st November)

Escape to the corners of Canary Wharf’s skyscrapers and you will find yourself in the countryside of Mudchute City Farm. Interact with farm animals and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Explore the agricultural life presented and learn about the intricacies of urban farming.

Accessibility: The farm prides itself on being accessible to all, though its natural landscapes and rural settings may pose challenges for visitors with severe mobility restrictions. Efforts are continually made to ensure a welcoming environment for everyone.

Rooftop Garden (Friday the 15th November) 

View London from above at one of London’s rooftop gardens. Here there is a serene landscape filled with greenery and views of the London skyline. These hidden gems are notorious for their mixture of urban and woodland above the bustling city below. 

Accessibility: With an emphasis on inclusivity, most rooftop gardens are designed to be accessible, featuring lifts and smooth pathways to accommodate all visitors.

Women’s Football Match (sunday 6th october)

Experience UK culture as most British people do: by attending a football (over here, football is what you call soccer!) Cheer on the record-beating Arsenal Ladies against Chelsea, some of whom you may recognise from the World Cup Final, and enjoy the excitement that you can only witness from a  live match. 

Accessibility: The stadium is equipped to cater to various accessibility needs, ensuring a comfortable experience for all attendees. Please communicate any specific requirements in advance. While the event is accessible to all, be prepared for the dynamic atmosphere of a live football match.

evensong at Westminster Abbey (Friday the 22nd November - TBC)

Anglicanism is officially the UK's state religion, with the King as the head of the Church of England. Westminster Abbey, dating back to 1066, sits at the heart of the nation and has played host to numerous royal weddings, funerals and events over the last millennium. Join us to attend Evensong, a beautiful, traditional sung service that has been celebrated daily in the Cathedral for centuries. We'll hear the Cathedral's famous choir and also get the chance to look around a building that is arguably at its most evocative on winter evenings. All are welcome! 

Accessibility: The Abbey is equipped to cater to multiple accessibility needs. The service is mainly sung by the choir, and those visiting from a different religious tradition are warmly invited to sit and listen and are not required to participate.