Each year, we welcome hundreds of schools into our hostels for package and self-led residentials. While package options are fantastic for activities which link to the National Curriculum, self-led trips allow flexibility to make for a bespoke experience.
If you’re thinking of booking a self-led adventure but need a little inspiration on where to go and what to do, here’s a guide on top places to wow pupils and school staff alike.
Discover the secrets of Swaledale
The fresh countryside air, the sound of birds chirping and lush green rolling hills. Nestled away in a corner of North Yorkshire, Swaledale is one of the county’s best kept secrets. The River Swale slithers through the valley like a snake amongst the heather-topped meadows, and the dry-stone walls perfectly outline each field.
This jaw-dropping valley has so much to offer for pupils and schools who are seeking an adventure. Those with an interest in history can marvel at ancient Roman forts and the remains of Iron Age architecture at Maiden Castle. The area also has a thriving lead history, which began with the Romans right through to the late nineteenth century. A trip to Gunnerside Smithy will tell pupils all they need to know about mining through the ages.
Geography school trips in the UK are a popular option in this area, as the fabulous moorland is a great base for fieldwork sessions. Not to mention, many of the valley’s hay meadows are species-rich.
Or to get everyone’s blood pumping, Swaledale’s rugged landscape is ideal for abseiling, climbing and rafting. For a more relaxed adventure, the moors have enchanting winding roads and footpaths for exploring by foot or bike.
Perched on the slopes of the valley is YHA Grinton Lodge. This former hunting lodge is ideal for school groups, with a dedicated classroom, study room, games room, dining room, lounge, football pitch and onsite activity course. Make the Yorkshire Dales your chosen residential location.
A world of culture in Warwickshire
History, culture and theatre are all rolled into one in Stratford-upon-Avon. Students with a love for history will have insight into life during the 16th century with a trip to living museum, Tudor World. For a medieval experience, Warwick Castle is home to ancient myths, enchanting tales, archery and spellbinding mazes.
Known worldwide as the home of William Shakespeare, this town has so many top theatre hot spots to visit. Groups can go behind the scenes, watch a performance or test their acting skills at the Royal Shakespeare Company. Or why not give pupils the chance to walk in the shoes of Shakespeare himself with a visit to the family home where he was born, or Anne Hathaway’s cottage.
Make it a school trip to remember by staying at YHA Stratford-upon-Avon. This Georgian mansion has three acres of grounds, plus a meeting room, projector, games room and TV lounge.
Learning in the Lake District
Groups who are studying biology and geography will have a field day when visiting the Langdale area of the Lake District. Quieter than most other areas of the region, this rustic landscape is awash with craggy peaks, slate cottages and superb views for miles.
Man-made beauty spot, Rydal Cave, is a must-see — perfect for exploring while jumping on the steppingstones. If your school group has a passion for hiking, there are plenty of exhilarating walks with jaw-dropping views, including Loughrigg Terrace, Low Wood and the Langdale Pikes. Adventurous groups are spoilt for choice here, with many epic biking routes, climbing spots and water sports nearby.
Pupils with a love for spoken word can visit the former home of poet, William Wordsworth, in the quaint town of Grasmere. Or why not step back to Victorian times with a trip to the gothic Wray Castle to learn about its fascinating history and explore the grounds on a low-level lakeshore walk.
YHA Langdale is set in an unmatched location, with impressive views down to Lake Windermere. With over 16-acres of land, this Victorian mansion has plenty of room for groups to explore within a magical setting. What are you waiting for? Book your self-led residential in the UK today.
The historic city of Chester
Chester is at the epicentre of all things heritage. Founded by the Romans over 2000 years ago, there are pockets of gripping history in every corner of the city. Enclosed within the ancient walls, you’ll find Tudor-themed buildings and unique shops.
Self-led groups can find out about life during the Roman military occupation at Grosvenor Museum, where young people get hands-on experience with a range of artefacts. Or see the city streets from a Medieval perspective with a tour which takes you back to the year 1403.
How about a day at the Zoo? From elephants and rhinos to cheetahs and chimpanzees, Chester Zoo is home to hundreds of beautiful animals and breath-taking gardens — perfect for a day out with a big group.
What better way to end a busy day exploring than at YHA Chester Trafford Hall. With 14-acres of grounds and several shared spaces in the hall, young people have plenty of space to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this Georgian house. Groups can gather and study in meeting rooms, followed by a fun evening in the games room with a pool table and table-top football.
Find out more about our self-led residentials. Or if you’d prefer a more bespoke option, we offer a range of tailored packages which link with the National Curriculum and nature.
Photo credit: Colin & Linda McKie / Liliya Trott / RamblingTog / Marco Saracco / Adobe Stock
