Top Destinations for School Trips in South East England

In our last blog, we explored the importance of early planning for a school trip, and included some tips for a successful organisation process. Of course, selecting the right destination is one of the most crucial ingredients for a rewarding and memorable school trip. 

Here’s a look at some of the best destinations in areas accessible from High Wycombe and the surrounding towns in south east England. Don’t forget to book your coach hire as soon as you’ve made your choice!

Outdoor activities

Outdoor adventures are a great way to take students out of their comfort zone, encourage them to test their courage and resilience, and stretch their physical capabilities. This can help students to develop in confidence, and to realise their potential. It may even instill a passion for the outdoors in students who have previously not had much experience of it.

Hilltop Outdoor Activity Centre

Hilltop Outdoor Activity Centre in Sheringham on the North Norfolk Coast offers a variety of outdoor adventure activities, field studies and team work challenges, set in 26 acres of woodlands. Choose from high ropes, tree top trails, climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, climbing and much more for a fun and challenging day out. 

The centre also offers residential stays for a longer visit, that may include field studies such as coastal erosion study, rock pool investigations, and woodland studies. 

Historical interest

Hever castle, Kent

If you are looking for a destination of historic interest to support classroom learning, then the south east of England is rich in castles, cathedrals, and other sites of national importance. For example, Hever Castle in Kent was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and the mother of Elizabeth I. 

The destination provides workshops tailored for students who are learning about the Tudor period, brought to life with original props, costumes, and an insight into the daily life of the castle occupants, from Royalty to servants. 

Science focused

Science Oxford Centre, Oxfordshire

Science Oxford Centre is a unique indoor-outdoor blended learning space that caters specifically for early years and primary school age children. It offers a hands-on learning experience, with pond investigations, woodland tours, workshops, and a planetarium show. It’s ideal for curious young minds and can help to foster a love of STEM subjects.

The Natural History Museum at Tring, Hertfordshire

The Natural History Museum at Tring is a smaller offshoot of the main venue in London. It houses a superb collection of natural specimens, with user-friendly and interactive displays that are ideal for young learners. 

Nature and wildlife

Brighton Sea Life Centre, East Sussex

Take a plunge into marine biology at the Brighton Sea Life Centre. With thousands of sea creatures on display and curriculum-linked educational talks, it’s perennially popular with students (and also their teachers). The venue itself is a beautiful Victorian building just yards from the seafront. 

Wildwood Trust, Kent

This wildlife conservation centre focuses on British animals, from wolves to wild boars. Educational sessions include conservation efforts and ecological lessons tailored to students. It has over 40 acres of ancient woodlands that are carefully managed for wildlife and biodiversity. 

There’s over 200 British species, and the animals live in natural enclosures similar to their native wildlife habitats. There are also picnic areas and a playground for younger children to release their energy after a day of educational experiences.