You’ll find our most popular itinerary choice(s) below, but we can tailor-make yours from scratch to meet your exact requirements…

London - 2 days from £115pp*

Travelling in November 2013. Price includes executive coach transport from & to school & throughout your stay, 1 night's full-board accommodation at MEININGER Hotel London Hyde Park, group travel insurance and a generous free place ratio of 1 in 8.

Add our most popular itinerary package below for £47pp*

Our most popular visits in London for Primary school trips

Here are some of our most popular visits in London for Primary school groups. We can tailor-make an itinerary to your exact needs. Call 0845 688 8988 to create your itinerary from scratch today.

To find out about taking a day trip to London, click here.  

Art & Design/Design & Technology Visits

Tate Modern

Britain’s spectacular museum of modern and contemporary international art. Themes include landscapes, environment, still life, action, and the body.

Victoria & Albert Museum

Focusing on the history of costume, with particular interest to KS4 textiles students. The holdings of ceramics, glass, costumes, jewellery, furniture, sculpture, prints and photographs are among the largest and most comprehensive in the world.

English & Drama Visits

West End Show - The Lion King

Still our most popular West End show for younger groups, which brings the animals to life with stunning costumes and special effects, whilst exploring moral themes such as relationships and growing up.

West End Show - Wicked

Dazzle your pupils in a spectacular fantasy world of wizards and witches, and uncover the untold story of Oz. This show is a real West End favourite and tells the tale of Elphaba whose destiny is to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West.

Matilda the Musical

Matilda the Musical is the multi award winning show based on the much loved story by Roald Dahl. Your pupils will be delighted with this 5-star performance about a special little girl with an extraordinary imagination!

Charlie & the Chocolate Factory

This spectacular new musical is choc-full of treats to dazzle your pupils’ senses. The delicious tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Mr Willy Wonka will come to life on the West End from Summer 2013. A chocolate garden, an army of squirrels and the peculiar Oompa-Loompas must be seen to be believed.

Other popular West End shows include:

• Billy Elliot
• Mamma Mia
• Viva Forever

 NST Stage School Workshops

NST Stage School’s workshops are delivered by qualified teaching artists (so you can get involved too) and can be tailored to your chosen show, or just for fun! Most workshops also include a 30 minute Q&A session with a West End performer too. Each workshop aims to:

• Increase confidence and creativity
• Develop communication and language
• Improve physical coordination and control
• Build on existing knowledge, skills and techniques in music, drama and dance
• Provide a breadth of study and experience

Options include:

• Warm-Up to the West End: Our most popular and versatile workshop and, likeany good warm-up, you’ll leave excited about one of the greatest experiences that London can offer; a show.
• West End 101: Involve your students in storytelling exercises, and introduce themto the history of the West End and professional theatre.
• Sing Like a Star: One of the joys of visiting a West End musical is singing along;so why don’t you learn the words in advance with the Musical Director and then practise your performance with one of the stars of the show!
• Storytelling Through Puppetry: Learn some of the creative uses of puppetry and explore the basic techniques of puppet performance. This is an ideal workshop to combine with a performance of The Lion King.

 Please call for full details of the workshop options available.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

Explore the life of Shakespeare, the London where he lived, and the theatre for which he wrote, then take a fascinating guided tour complete with interactive displays and live demonstrations. Your group could enjoy an interactive workshop tailored to KS2/P4-7 as well.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a behind-the-scenes walking tour which will truly immerse pupils into the world of film-making. Discover the authentic sets used in the making of the Harry Potter™ film series, step inside the actual Great Hall and explore Dumbledore’s office. Walk on the famous cobbles of Diagon Alley, featuring the shop fronts of Ollivanders wand shop, Flourish and Blotts, the Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and Eeylops Owl Emporium. Rediscover the Gryffindor common room, the boys’ dormitory and Hagrid’s hut.

The Workshops

A programme of new educational workshops have been created to complement the Studio Tour. There are three specific options available for primary pupils - all of which are ideal for KS2 / P4-7. These workshops are delivered in a purpose built classroom and use the Harry Potter™ film series as an example of the wider context and theories surrounding film-making and design. You’ll even get access to free downloadable pre- and post visit resource packs to use in the classroom. The workshops are taught on-site by award winning teachers.

History Visits

Royal Albert Hall Victorian Experience

Take a fascinating tour through this impressive building using its rich history to explore the Victorian age, and discover what it would have been like to see a show here or work in the hall when it first opened over 140 years ago. You’ll get to view the auditorium from one of the private boxes, and explore areas of the front of house too. Additionally, pupils will take part in classroom-based interactive workshops which will include role-play and a glimpse in to the Royal Albert Hall’s fascinating archive collection

Hampton Court Palace

A visit to Hampton Court is essential for studying the Tudors at KS2. Your pupils will:

• View England’s last and greatest medieval hall and one of Britain’s oldest theatres
• Experience a real Tudor kitchen - built to feed the Court of Henry VIII
• Explore the magnificent Chapel Royal and beautiful gardens Reduced price entry for school groups, free preliminary visit tickets for teachers and lively curriculum-based sessions led by expert presenters, are also available through NST.

Tower of London

At the Tower of London, your group will have the opportunity to learn about some of England’s famous monarchs, see the largest collection of early weapons and armour in Britain, visit Traitor’s Gate, the Tower Ravens, the Royal Fusilier Museum and the new Jewel House, as well as historic hotspots where dramatic events unfolded. Curriculum-based sessions led by expert presenters, educational downloads, materials and other resources are also available.

Imperial War Museum

This museum, which is due to reopen in July 2013 following a multi million pound redevelopment for the WWI Centenary in 2014, covers every aspect of conflict in the 20th century. The work will provide new gallery spaces and a new central hall, easier navigation and improved visitor facilities ready for the national centenary commemorations in 2014. The Children at War exhibition is particularly popular with our KS2 / P4-7 groups too, and looks at conflict through the eyes of British children.

Museum of London

One of London’s most dynamic periods was while it was the Roman city of Londinium. The Roman collection forms a central part of the museum and holds many fine examples of ceramics, metalwork and coins, among many other artefacts collected from the London area. Give pupils an understanding of crime and punishment in Roman Britain to the Middle Ages. It helps them understand the nature of change and continuity in law and order from the Roman period, to Anglo-Saxon Law and Order to the Norman period.

HMS Belfast

This World War II museum ship moored on the River Thames offers a unique chance to explore the decks right down to the engine room to see how sailors lived and fought over years gone by. A visit here will serve as a unique reminder of Britain’s naval heritage.

Royal Observatory & Planetarium, Greenwich

The Royal Observatory in Greenwich is the home of Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World, making it the official starting point for each new day and year. It is also home to London’s only planetarium, the Harrison timekeepers and the UK’s largest refracting telescope.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Founded in 604, this Church of England cathedral – which has been rebuilt on a number of occasions – is one of London’s most famous and most recognisable sights. Themed tours also available.

Houses of Parliament

At this political institution your pupils will have the opportunity to visit the House of Lords, the House of Commons and Westminster Hall - formerly the Royal Courts of Justice and where monarchs and statesmen have lain in state. An hour long workshop and guided tour are also available – but make sure you book early as these options are extremely popular.

Science Visits

Natural History Museum

At this exciting museum, your pupils can explore the natural world and discover the amazing diversity of life that has evolved on our planet. Visit the Darwin Centre in the museum to watch a pre-booked interactive film in the David Attenborough Studio entitled ‘Who Do You Think You Really Are?’.

Science Museum

The Science Museum is packed with awe-inspiring galleries, interactive resources and inspirational exhibitions. Your pupils can explore the hands-on galleries such as ‘Who am I?’, where they can collect DNA to catch a criminal, discover what their voice sounds like as a member of the opposite sex or morph their faces to see what they will look like as they age. Other popular exhibitions include Launch Pad and Making the Modern World. Science Museum resources are also available and free to download.

ZSL London Zoo

Spend time with over 750 species at London Zoo. A children’s zoo was launched in 2009. Immerse pupils in the sights, sounds and experiences of life in the animal kingdom Resources and programmes in place for KS2/P4-7 studies

London Aquarium

This is the place to see sea life! With over 500 species, 14 themed zones and more than 2 million litres of water, London Aquarium plays host to one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life. Dare your pupils to do the ‘shark walk’, take part in interactive feeding sessions, watch diving displays and enjoy the touch pools.

Centre of the Cell

A science education centre based at Queen Mary University of London, Centre of the Cell is located inside a distinctive orange pod suspended above the laboratories. Once inside, pupils will learn about the amazing world of cells and the human body. The experience includes KS2 curriculum-linked interactive games which utilise the latest digital technologies.

Isis Education Centre

Located in the heart of Hyde Park, the Isis Education Centre is an inspiring, new environmental education centre that features nature trails, a dipping pond, a mini-allotment, butterfly bank, lightning tree, mini beast logger and two state-of-the-art discovery rooms. Here, your group will enjoy hands-on learning outside of the classroom, get to connect with nature, and experience maths, science, history and art in action. Choose from a range of full or half day nature-packed workshops.

Religious Education Visits

Imperial War Museum

This museum, which is due to reopen in July 2013 following a multi million pound redevelopment for the WWI Centenary in 2014, covers every aspect of conflict in the 20th century. The work will provide new gallery spaces and a new central hall, easier navigation and improved visitor facilities ready for the national centenary commemorations in 2014. The Children at War exhibition is particularly popular with our KS2 / P4-7 groups too, and looks at conflict through the eyes of British children.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Founded in 604, this Church of England cathedral – which has been rebuilt on a number of occasions – is one of London’s most famous and most recognisable sights. Themed tours also available.

Geography Visits

Guided Olympic Site Coach Tour - Half day and full day option available

Come and witness the legacy of London 2012 and see the Olympic Park area following the exciting urban regeneration programme which transformed the face of East London.

Your Blue Badge Guide can take you even closer to the venues, driving right next to the Velodrome, the BMX track, and the Olympic and the Paralympic Villages.

The coach will travel around the edge of the Olympic Park before making a stop at the Olympic Stadium, the Aquatics Centre and the Orbit. The tour also affords fantastic views of the International Broadcast Centre and the Copper Box venue. Weather permitting, there are opportunities to get off the coach and explore.

You’ll then head to the Royal Docks to view ExCel, which hosted seven Olympic sports and five Paralympic sports. Then to Woolwich to see the magnificent facade of the Royal Artillery Barracks, the venue for shooting and for the Paralympic archery. The tour ends at Greenwich with a walk in the park where the Equestrian events and the Modern Pentathlon had such a spectacular setting. Tours can be tailored to a group's specific requirements.

Leisure Visits

EDF Energy London Eye

For a fantastic bird’s eye view of England’s capital city, take a ½-hour ride on the London Eye at our great group price.  See a fantastic aerial view of the city. Point out the well-known buildings that have formed London’s famous skyline. Free KS2/P4-7 cross-curricular packs available

Thames River Cruise

A leisurely cruise down the Thames is a great way to see London. Our most popular option is a ½-hour trip which starts at the Houses of Parliament.

• Unravel the city’s many layers of history
• Take in sights which include the EDF Energy London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London

Blue Badge Guided Tour

See the major sights of the city. An expert Blue Badge Guide will join you on your coach and bring the Capital to life for your group. Sights may include Big Ben & Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Madame Tussauds

With 14 zones, over 300 wax figures and the amazing Marvel Super Heroes 4D Movie Experience, Madame Tussauds London combines glitz and glamour with incredible history.

ZSL London Zoo

Spend time with over 750 species at London Zoo. A children’s zoo was launched in 2009. Immerse pupils in the sights, sounds and experiences of life in the animal kingdom.  Resources and programmes in place for KS2/P4-7 studies

London Aquarium

This is the place to see sea life! With over 500 species, 14 themed zones and more than 2 million litres of water, London Aquarium plays host to one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life. Dare your pupils to do the ‘shark walk’, take part in interactive feeding sessions, watch diving displays and enjoy the touch pools.

Rainforest Cafe Educational Tour

Enjoy an entertaining lunch experience at the Rainforest Cafe. A Safari Guide waiter will lead your pupils around this stunning restaurant - with its rainforest inspired plants, waterfalls and animal robots - and present interesting facts and stories. Activity sheets and educational quizzes are included, and each person taking part in the tour will actively save 80m2 of rainforest!

Theme Parks

A fun-packed day at a theme park is a great way to reward hard work and strengthen friendships. Choices include Chessington World of Adventures andLegoland® Windsor. Enjoy exciting and interactive rides, amazing animals, live shows, building workshops and other attractions too. Each theme park offers a range of learning resources for use prior to, during, and after your visit.

Below, you'll find some of our most popular accommodation options for school groups.

This is just a sample of our full range, so for full details of all properties available, please call 0845 688 8988 to speak to one of our Educational Travel Advisors today.

Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park

This hotel was purpose built in 1961 and was largely renovated in 1999 with further work undertaken in 2010. The building has 5 floors with bedrooms on floors 3 - 5. The entire building is extremely presentable.

Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park

An ideally located centre in London offering a unique blend of high quality accommodation, full meal options and a large selection of conference rooms. The property has been specifically developed with school and student clientele in mind.

Address 65-67 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5JS View map of location	Local Rating Youth accommodation centre of 3* hotel quality, owned by the Scout Association and managed by Meininger City Hostels and Hotels.
	Capacity 262 beds, 48 rooms

Location Information

The centre is superbly situated in South Kensington, on the corner of Queen’s Gate and Cromwell Road. It is directly opposite the Natural History Museum and, hence, very close to other major museums. The nearest tube stations are Gloucester Rd and South Kensington (District, Circle and Piccadilly lines), which are both within 10 minutes walk from the centre.

View map

Download PDF datasheet

Accommodation Facilities

• 24-hour Reception
• Lobby and coffee bar
• Small museum dedicated to Baden-Powell
• Small shop
• Vending machine
• CCTV covering public areas
• Self-service dining room located on the first floor.  This room can also be used in the evenings for filming if reserved in advance (bring your own laptop and DVD’s)
• Roof garden on the second floor
• Conference / meeting facilities (subject to fees)
• WiFi access in public areas (subject to fees)
• Lift
• Coach parking is available in Earl’s Court.  Coaches can drop off and pick up directly outside the centre
• Non smoking hotel
• Access to rooms with secure keycard system
• Introductory welcome talk covering the services and facilities for school groups
• Disabled facilities: 3 specially adapted rooms for disabled guests can be found on the third and fourth floors of the centre. The bathroom serving these rooms is located directly opposite

 Student Rooms

• 4-12 bedded rooms (Bunk beds)
• En suite facilities (2 bathroom pods for rooms with 12 students, 1 bathroom pod for all other room types)
• Air conditioning / central heating
• Flat screen TV
• Towels and bedding provided
• Individual lockers are provided in all the 6-12 bedded rooms

 Staff Rooms

• Twins/Singles
• En suite facilities
• Air conditioning / central heating
• Flat screen TV
• Towels and bedding provided

Twin rooms are provided for accompanying staff in line with our booking conditions.  (Please note the number of single rooms is very limited and single rooms cannot always be guaranteed).

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Royal National

A very large, purpose-built hotel.

Royal National

A large, busy hotel offering a good standard of accommodation in a central location. The hotel offers a good range of facilities and represents value for money.

Address Bedford Way London WC1H ODG View map of location	Local Rating 2 star (equivalent to a 3 star standard)
	Capacity 3500 guests in 1630 rooms over 7 floors.

Location Information

The Royal National is located 5 minutes’ walk from Russell Square, close to Oxford Street, Covent Garden and many theatres. It is also conveniently situated for easy access to the underground system, the nearest station being Russell Square (a 4-5 minute walk away).

View map

Download PDF datasheet

Accommodation Facilities

• 24-hour reception with night porters
• Meeting rooms
• Restaurants
• Bars
• Coffee shop
• Drinks and snack machines
• Gift shop
• Bureau de change
• Payphones
• Lifts
• Safe storage area
• Luggage room (incurs small charge)
• Safety deposit boxes
• Disabled facilities: All areas of the hotel (including lift) are wheelchair accessible. 10 rooms on various floors have been adapted for use by disabled guests including grab bars fitted in bathrooms.

 Student Rooms

• 2-3 bedded rooms – pull-out/foldaway beds may be used
• En-suite facilities
• TV
• Wardrobes
• Towels
• Tea & coffee-making facilities

 Staff Rooms

• Twins/singles
• En-suite facilities
• TV
• Wardrobes
• Towels
• T ea& coffee-making facilities

Security Deposit

A noise/security deposit is required at this accommodation. The amount is £20.00 per student. In the first instance, this amount will be charged to NST and, should any problems arise (such as excessive noise or poor behaviour or damage to the areas occupied by the group), this charge will in-turn be passed onto the group for payment.

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We are able to pre-arrange and pre-pay for meals at many London eateries before you travel, so you won’t have to carry cash or queue.

Take advantage of our great group prices. Choices include:

• Pizza Hut
• Planet Hollywood
• Hard Rock Cafe
• Rainforest Cafe

Plus, we can even provide a choice of packed lunches for your group throughout their stay.

Free Educational Resources

When you book with NST, you’ll receive some free educational resources to help your group get the most out of their time away.

Educational Resource Packs for Primary Groups

We offer unique and exclusive educational materials for you to use on your tour, and provide you with resources for pre- and post-tour tasks too!

Treasure Hunts

An exciting adventure for your group! Pupils work in teams to solve clues which lead to a thrilling chase around your destination. These treasure hunts are worth £18 but come free to NST groups.

Click here to view a sample of our Treasure Hunts for Primary school groups.

Travel Games

Our travel games are a great way to keep your group entertained on coach journeys to your destination and on your way home.

Click here to view a sample of our Travel Games for Primary school groups.