Sustainability in London

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: London

Welcome to London! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager, relax, unpack and begin to explore the city's unique neighborhoods. Perhaps use the London Underground, the world’s first underground railway, to check out street markets along Portobello Road in Notting Hill; explore the paths of Hyde Park or the mansions of nearby Belgravia; visit museums in South Kensington; or stroll along the artsy South Bank. Unlimited public transport is included with your stay for easy and environmentally conscious travel around the city.

Day 3: London

This morning meet your local guide to explore the British Museum, home to an astounding 150 million items. You'll discover objects from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and sculptural friezes from the Parthenon. Head next to Covent Garden, with time to browse the shops and stalls of the lively market and grab lunch. In the afternoon, experience an up-close look at London's iconic treasures on a guided London by Bike tour, including views of Big Ben, the Horse Guard Parade, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and more. As you cycle and stop for photos, your guide's commentary will bring the history of what you are seeing to life. This evening you may choose an optional London theatre performance. Perhaps choose the carbon-neutral Arcola Theatre to watch a fringe theatre show, or check out the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company or the Young Vic, which are all part of the Theatre Green Book, an initiative helping theatres to become more sustainable.

Day 4: London

Today connect with the city’s locals in a meaningful way by exploring East London’s diverse and multicultural neighborhoods. Start with a guided street art tour of Shoreditch, a trendy, eclectic area that you’ll view through the prism of its urban art and graffiti. Your knowledgeable artist-guide will highlight this dynamic cultural scene and explain some of the messages that lie behind its colorful, thought-provoking murals. Then enjoy some free time to discover the multitude of vintage shops and independent sellers along Brick Lane and perhaps grab a bite to eat in one of the independent eateries. In the afternoon, hop on the Tube to the brutalist Barbican Centre and visit the second biggest conservatory in London. Experience a lush tropical oasis in the heart of the city and discuss the importance of urban green spaces.

Day 5: London

Have a big breakfast today before you break out your wellies and travel outside of the city for a unique, guided foraging tour that introduces you to the bounty of flavors and sustenance that can be found in the wild English countryside. Dress for exploring the outdoors as you join up with an expert forager to learn what to look out for, how to be closer to nature and the environment, and how to sustainably source food from the land. Then return to London, kick off your muddy shoes, and enjoy the remainder of the day to explore more at your own pace.

Day 6: London

In the morning, board the train for a day trip to the seaside town of Brighton, an ancient fishing village, turned health resort, turned inclusivity-focused modern community with a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Take a stroll down the famous Brighton lanes full of independent and sustainably-focused shops, walk along the pebbled beach, visit the famous Brighton Pier and perhaps—if you are feeling adventurous—have a go on the rides. And be sure while on the British coast to sample some sustainably caught fish and chips. Then head to one of the iconic spots on Brighton’s seafront to learn a little maritime merchant history as you take part in a fun, casual, Sea Shanty singing lesson before catching the train back to London.

Day 7: London

This morning discover Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park during a guided tour with a local volunteer. Learn about the history of the park, its artworks, local wildlife, biodiversity and sustainability. Then visit the ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture, made largely from recycled steel, and ascend to the viewing platform for a beautiful panorama of the London city skyline. Ride back down via the tallest tunnel slide in the world and reach speeds up to 15mph. Venture to Hackney Bridge, on the edge of the park, where you will find a selection of independently run eateries and independent shops supporting local makers. After time to have lunch, the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore more of London as you wish.

Day 8: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the culture and delights of England's capital with an extra night in London, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager.

Enhance your European experience with a two-night extension from London to historic Paris via the Eurostar—discover the city's past and present with included sightseeing.