We are really looking forward to welcoming you to England this summer - we hope you’re excited! While you will only be with us for a short time, we want to give you as many opportunities as possible to explore your temporary home beyond the usual tourist attractions. We have a mix of paid and free events for you to choose from, and you can sign up for as many as you like! Event registration opens on 3rd May at 12 noon (EST) on your Arcadia Portal.
"From quick visits to local attractions to daytrips further afield, our events programme helps you make the most of your short time in the UK."
Windsor Castle
Hot on the heels of King Charles III’s coronation, take a trip to this working castle that has been home to 40 monarchs! You’ll have time to explore the picturesque town of Windsor, and even pop over the river to neighbouring Eton, where princes William and Harry went to school
Price includes: Travel and entry to Windsor Castle.
Shakespeare’s True Crime Walking Tour
What do Shakespeare and the current True Crime boom have in common? Plenty, it turns out! Explore London’s once-notorious Bankside area, once the site of duels, violent disputes, and even the murder of playwright Christopher Marlowe!
Price includes: Walking Tour
Stonehenge and Salisbury
A visit to the UK would not be complete without a trip to the mysterious Stonehenge, whose standing stones still baffle archaeologists and historians 4,500 years after its construction. We’ll also visit the nearby market town of Salisbury and take a trip to its famous cathedral, over 800 years old and home to one of only 4 remaining copies of the Magna Carta as well as the world’s oldest clock. You’ll also have time to explore the beautiful town and check out its historic markets, pubs and other attractions.
Price includes: Travel from London to Stonehenge/Salisbury, entry to Stonehenge, entry to Salisbury Cathedral.
Brighton
Nothing says English Summer like a trip to the seaside! Brighton has been a popular seaside resort for British daytrippers since Victorian times, and you could spend hours exploring its pedestrianised alleyways and many attractions. You’ll be able to explore the town, brave the fairground rides on its famous pier, and maybe even try some fish and chips (watch out for the seagulls!)
Price includes: Travel to and from Brighton and entry to the Pier
As well as our subsidised paid events we offer a programme of free events to help you discover some of London’s lesser-known hotspots. These events are not available to sign up in advance. Instead, we will open bookings 7 days before each event, so keep an eye on your Arcadia email for details! These are the events you can look out for:
Cat Cafe
Missing your kitty? Then Arcadia is here to help! Enjoy a hot beverage alongside some cat therapy at one of London’s cat cafes.
Sky Garden
High above London in the building colloquially known as the Walkie Talkie nestles the Sky Garden, one of London’s premier viewing platforms. Taking in London’s most famous landmarks from the Shard to St Paul’s Cathedral, you can also enjoy a snack in the cafe. Afterwards, you can head over to Borough Market, which is pure foodie heaven.
Coal Drops Yard and the Queer Britain Museum
When the sun shines, Londoners come out to play! Coal Drops Yard is a trendy haven of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants behind King’s Cross Station and next to the Regent’s Canal. In the summer you’ll see children (and sometimes dogs!) frolicking in the fountains, and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to explore the Central Saint Martin’s Arts College end of year degree shows! We’ll also be going to the Queer Britain Museum. Opened in 2022, this is the UK’s first and only permanent museum dedicated to Queer History
Mudchute City Farm
Hiding amidst the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf is Mudchute City Farm, one of the largest city farms in Europe. Here you can get up close and personal with goats, pigs, horses and more!
Little Venice and Primrose Hill
Not too far from the centre of London is Little Venice, a tranquil canal basin where quaint barges sit side by side with grand houses. From there, take a walk to Primrose Hill, where Londoners go to exercise, picnic or just hang out. The steep climb is worth it for the panoramic view across London!