Exploring the UK through Summer School Day Trips

As a first-time visitor to London, I knew that I wanted to immerse myself in all aspects of LSE Summer School. While my course offered a rich, challenging environment, the opportunity to explore the UK was just as enticing. LSE Summer School schedules day trips to cities around England over the weekends, allowing students to unwind while engaging with the country’s cultural and intellectual heritage. I had the privilege of going on all three trips: Cambridge, Oxford and Windsor. Each of these destinations offered something unique, and together, they created a perfect balance between academia and adventure.

Cambridge: A Walk Through the Heart of Academia

Cambridge, with its cobbled streets and centuries-old colleges, immediately felt like the epitome of academia. Walking through King’s College in the centre of the city, I couldn’t help but feel like I was treading in the footsteps of some of the greatest minds in history. The college itself was beautiful, with neat gardens and timeless architecture.

A highlight of the trip was standing near the tree, found outside Trinity College, that is said to be grown from an offshoot of the very apple tree that inspired Newton’s discovery of gravity (pictured above). And, of course, no trip to Cambridge is complete without a classic punting experience on the River Cam.

Oxford: A Journey Back in Time

Of all the places we visited, Oxford left the greatest impression on me. The perfect blend of an academic city with a touch of suburban calm, entering Oxford felt like stepping into another era. Walking through the University of Oxford, the atmosphere buzzed with scholarly energy, yet the quiet, hidden corners offered moments of reflection.

For those who are Harry Potter fans like me, Oxford offers a delightful bonus. The Bodleian Library, New College, and Christ Church are all locations where the films were shot. Walking through these spots felt like entering the world of magic. Even though I was there as a student, I couldn’t help but let my inner Potterhead take over, basking in the charm of these settings.

And lastly, don’t forget to visit the Norrington Room in Blackwell’s Bookshop which is one of the largest book-selling rooms in the world, with over 150,000 books and nearly three miles of shelves.

Windsor: A Royal Experience

Windsor offered a completely different kind of charm – one steeped in royalty and tradition. Walking through Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, was a deeply immersive experience. St. George’s Chapel stood in all its grandeur, and the castle grounds exuded an air of majesty. What I loved most, though, was the peaceful vibe of Windsor town itself. Its quaint shops and picturesque streets made for a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.

The Perfect Balance of Academics and Exploration

What made these day trips truly special was how they complemented the intense academic schedule at LSE. I found that stepping outside the classroom and exploring such historically significant places enriched my learning in unexpected ways. The visits to Oxford and Cambridge allowed me to draw connections between the academic traditions of the past and my present-day studies.

Moreover, the day trips provided a broader perspective on British history, culture, and academia, adding depth to my overall Summer School experience. Each trip not only gave me a break from rigorous coursework but also inspired new reflections on my studies.

Final Thoughts

For any future LSE Summer School students, I highly recommend making the most of these day trips. They offer a wonderful balance between academic intensity and cultural exploration, giving you the chance to experience the UK’s rich heritage first-hand.

So, while you’re busy studying at one of the world’s leading institutions, don’t forget to venture out and explore. Even if you can’t get tickets to the LSE Summer School organised trips, it’s very easy to take yourself to these cities on the train with your friends. These experiences will not only make your weekends more memorable but also deepen your understanding of the cultural landscape that surrounds you.

 

This blog was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.