Our most popular additional option, a capital city visit.  A visit to London can be added onto your itinerary at any point but for guests flying via London airports we find this works best at the beginning or end or your trip. We can plan a London itinerary based on what ever it is that interest you, from industry/site visits specific to your course content or simply a some of the must-see tourist attractions.

Highlights include

• Buckingham Palace - Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch and a symbol of royal tradition and grandeur. Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House, it became a palace in the 19th century and has since hosted countless state occasions and ceremonies.
• Tower of London - The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,000 years of history. Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, it has served as a royal palace, fortress, prison, and treasury. Today, visitors can explore the White Tower, and marvel at the Crown Jewels.
• Houses of Parliament - The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is the seat of the UK Parliament, located along the River Thames in central London. It houses the House of Commons and the House of Lords, where laws are debated and passed.

Voted as one of the UK’s most picturesque cities York offers a perfect blend of medieval streets, Roman walls, and vibrant modern culture. With a history dating back nearly 2000 years this city tour offers the perfect blend of sightseeing and shopping.

Highlights Include:

• York Minster - Explore one of the largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Europe.
• The Shambles - Wander through this enchanting, narrow medieval street lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings.
• City Walls - Originally built as Roman defence fortifications the city walls now offer a panoramic walk around the city offering stunning views.
• York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower - Immerse yourself in centuries of history.
• River Ouse - Enjoy a relaxing riverside stroll or boat trip.

Step into centuries of scholarly tradition with a visit to the world-famous university city of Cambridge. With its elegant architecture, tranquil riverside, and vibrant student culture, Cambridge offers an unforgettable taste of academic heritage.

Highlights include:

• The Colleges of Cambridge University - Admire the stunning historic buildings and manicured courtyards.
• King’s College Chapel - A masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
• The River Cam - Perfect to try your hand at punting, a leisurely boating activity popular in Cambridge and Oxford, or take a pleasant walk along the river side.
• Market Square - Browse local crafts, food stalls, and souvenirs.
• Fitzwilliam Museum - Explore world-class art and artefacts.

Known unofficially as the capital of the North Manchester offers an eclectic mix of energy and creativity like no other.  The city is famous for its music scene, industrial heritage, and cultural innovation whilst being a modern-day economic powerhouse for investment and development.

Highlights include:

• Manchester Museum - One of the largest university museums in the UK with over 4.5 million objects.  Explore natural history, archaeology, and world culture across a range of interactive exhibits.
• John Rylands Library - A significant landmark in the city with breathtaking neo-Gothic architecture and a world class collection of rare books, manuscripts and archives.
• The Northern Quarter – Whilst Manchester offers a wide range of shopping the distinct character of the Northern quarter offers the most unique and bohemian interpretation of this.  With street art, independent and boutique shops, and café culture all with a unique bohemian energy.
• Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford - Red or Blue is the ultimate debate in Manchester with the city housing two of football’s legendary grounds.
• Science and Industry Museum - As a major player in the industrial revolution Manchester has retained a lot of the ties to its industrial past.  Discover Manchester’s role in shaping the modern world.