Embark on the literary adventure of a lifetime with the NEHS UK Literary Tour 2026! Imagine walking in the footsteps of literary giants like Shakespeare, Conan Doyle, and Austen, and exploring the charming towns and vibrant cities that inspired their masterpieces. This tour is more than a trip; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of English literature.
As an NEHS member, you’ll have the chance to visit iconic landmarks such as Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, the beautiful city of Bath that fueled Austen’s novels, the world-leading University of Cambridge, and the bustling streets of London that set the stage for countless stories. Engage in exclusive workshops, creative writing sessions, and delve into the rich literary history that has shaped the world.
But it’s not all about the past. This tour also offers a dynamic look at contemporary British literature, with opportunities to attend contemporary theatrical performances, visit modern bookstores, and discuss current trends with fellow literature enthusiasts. Plus, you’ll forge lasting friendships with your peers, sharing unforgettable experiences that will inspire your own writing and literary pursuits.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary adventure, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
NEHS is partnering with American River Cultural Exchange to provide this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Registration Process
- 2025 Testimonials
- Photos
- Tentative 2026 Itinerary
- Dates, Costs, Inclusions, and Other Details
Registration Process:
Registrations are open until November 10, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (CT).
NEHS members will be asked to complete a short registration form to participate in the NEHS UK Literary Tour 2026.
The registration process includes the following questions, which NEHS members must respond to:
- Which of the authors studied during the Literary Tour is most important to you and why?
- What will you do with the skills and experiences you acquire and develop on the Literary Tour?
Registrants are required to specify their travel funding arrangements during the registration process. Additionally, the registration form must be completed under parent/guardian supervision if the registrant is under 18 years of age. In that case, parents/guardians must confirm their consent to the travel plans and acknowledge that the travel expenses must be fully covered by the deadlines outlined below.
2025 Testimonials:
I went on the 2025 NEHS Literary Tour as a literature-loving parent participant. The trip was well-planned, the students were well-chaperoned, and there was a great balance of planned activities versus free time. I would do this trip again, and will gladly recommend it to others!—2025 UK Literary Tour Parent Chaperone
I had a wonderful experience on the trip starting with all the people I met and friends I made. I enjoyed the free time to explore and discover things as well as the group activities in all the different cities. I like how we were encouraged to journal and were given time to do so not only in the hotel but also in parks and around the cities. The trip provided me with a new perspective on what I would like to do with my life due to a different environment and cultures as well as the amount of different people we were able to meet, and the variety of activities we got to participate in.—2025 UK Literary Tour Student Participant
As cliche as it may sound, being able to do something like this without my parents being over my shoulder was important and I’m so happy NEHS gave me that opportunity. It was such an amazing way to experience England and the emphasis on its literary history made it that much better. I also loved the variety of activities: sightseeing, workshops, free time, and more hands-on things like punting.—2025 UK Literary Tour Student Participant
This trip was everything that I had hoped for and more. I learned so much about Britain and British literature, and a lot of the sights and adventures provided deeper context to books/poetry I have already read. Beyond just being educational, I also had a lot of fun exploring different towns with my friends. While I was a little nervous to be flying to a foreign country for the first time, the whole trip was planned very well and I did not worry at all.—2025 UK Literary Tour Student Participant
The thought of my 16 year old in another country without a parent, and with complete strangers, terrified me. Knowing now, from what I saw, with how the tour was run, the security of the children, the activities planned, the experiences they were able to have, the quality of the chaperones, I wouldn’t think twice about letting my child go on next year’s tour solo.—2025 UK Literary Tour Parent Chaperone
Photos:
Tentative 2026 Itinerary:
Day 0:
Meet at JFK International Airport, New York (tentative departure location)
Day 1:
Upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport, you’ll meet with your tour director and travel to the hotel via coach bus. Upon arrival, we will have a tour briefing to prepare for our literary journey. After settling in, we’ll stop at a local grocery store on our way to Hyde Park for a Welcome Picnic and Tour Briefing. You’ll then have some free time to explore and enjoy dinner in Bayswater, a vibrant, cosmopolitan residential area in West London, known for its beautiful architecture, proximity to Hyde Park, and diverse cultural scene.
Day 2:
Today, you’ll embark on a literary journey through Central and Southeast London. We’ll begin with a visit to 221B Baker Street, the fictional address of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous character, Sherlock Holmes. After walking the street and enjoying a visit to the Sherlock Holmes Museum, we’ll take the London Underground to Borough Market, known for its local and international dishes. You’ll have time to try bites from a variety of stalls. After lunch, we’ll walk to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for a personalized tour inside the walls of the open-air theatre. A scenic walk across the Millennium Bridge will take us to St. Paul’s Cathedral and Guildhall Art Gallery for some architectural and artistic appreciation. We’ll conclude our evening with a group journaling session in Hyde Park and then some dinner and free time in Bayswater.
Day 3:
Our literary journey continues with a walking tour of Westminster. We’ll begin with a walk through Green Park to Buckingham Palace, where we’ll have a chance to see the Changing of the Guard. Next, we’ll pace through St. James Park and enjoy a morning reading and writing session in the shade before visiting iconic sites such as Westminster Abbey, Westminster Bridge, and Big Ben. We’ll walk to St Martin-in-the-Fields, where we’ll enjoy lunch at the Café in the Crypt. After lunch, you’ll have some free time along Whitehall and can explore the National Portrait Gallery. We’ll continue our walk to Covent Garden for dinner and by nightfall, we’ll enjoy a stunning performance of a West End musical before returning to the hotel.
Day 4:
Today, we leave London behind for now and venture into the countryside for a visit to Highclere Castle, best known as the primary filming location for Downton Abbey. After breakfast, we’ll travel by coach to the estate where we’ll enjoy a guided walk through the castle’s grand interiors and expansive parklands. Following lunch at Highclere, we’ll take time for a reflective reading and writing session amid the scenic grounds. In the afternoon, we’ll continue west to the historic city of Bath, where we’ll check into our hotel and settle in. We’ll venture through the Georgian streets of Bath to enjoy some free time and dinner at a local restaurant in the city centre.
Day 5:
Our literary exploration continues in Bath, a city renowned for its Regency charm and closely associated with the novelist Jane Austen. We’ll begin with a visit to the Jane Austen Centre, followed by a guided walking tour through the streets and sites that inspired her writing. After lunch, we’ll gather for a reading and writing session in one of the city’s green spaces. In the afternoon, you may choose to explore the Roman Baths as an optional add-on. The evening is free for personal exploration, with another optional visit to Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein for those curious about the Gothic legacy she left behind.
Day 6:
Today, we’ll travel by coach to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, for an enriching literary experience. Our self-guided tour will begin at Shakespeare’s Birthplace , where we’ll learn about the Bard’s life. We’ll then make our way through the town and visit a variety of historically significant locations related to Shakespeare’s life, including his childhood home, Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, Holy Trinity Church, and Shakespeare’s grave. We’ll end our visit with a reflective writing session along the River Avon and a late lunch at one of the few traditional taverns that are reminiscent of Shakespeare’s time. We’ll then depart for Cambridge by coach, check into our next hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening in Cambridge.
Day 7:
Today, we’ll venture into the historic heart of Cambridge for a walking tour through one of England’s most storied university towns. After breakfast, we’ll explore the city’s highlights, including Jesus Green, the medieval Round Church, and various sites around the University of Cambridge, from Isaac Newton’s famous apple tree to the Corpus Clock. You’ll also have time to browse the lively Cambridge Market Square, with an option to step inside select colleges for a closer look at their rich academic legacy. After lunch, we’ll visit the Fitzwilliam Museum to admire its art and antiquities, followed by a peaceful reading and writing session along the River Cam. In the late afternoon, you may choose to join an optional punting tour through the College Backs for a scenic view of Cambridge from the water. The evening is yours to enjoy dinner and explore more of the city at your own pace.
Day 8:
Today, you will immerse yourself in the scholarly atmosphere of Cambridge at Girton College, University of Cambridge. Girton College is known to be the first residential college in England to provide university-level education to women. Our day at Girton will include a variety of literary lectures, a walking tour of the college and its gardens, reading and writing sessions, and a visit to the college’s museums, exhibitions, libraries, and archives. We’ll return to the Cambridge city centre for dinner and enjoy a scenic walk back to the hotel.
Day 9:
Today, we’ll say farewell to Cambridge and make our way back to London by coach. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy lunch before heading out again. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the British Museum, home to some of the most significant historical treasures in the English-speaking world. By evening, we’ll enjoy free time along the Thames before gathering for dinner near Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. We’ll end the night with a captivating performance at the Globe.
Day 10:
For our final day together, we’ll journey to the charming town of Windsor, home of the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the magnificent Windsor Castle, a residence of the British Royal Family for over 900 years. Within the castle grounds, we’ll pause for a reflective reading and writing session inspired by our surroundings. Afterward, enjoy lunch and some free time to wander Windsor’s quaint streets and shops. In the evening, we’ll return to London by rail and regroup for a final outing in London, closing out our literary adventure with dinner and free time in the city.
Day 11:
Today marks our final day in the UK and our long journey home. Once ready, the group will travel by bus to Heathrow Airport and bid farewell to the UK. We hope you’ll take today to reflect on the unforgettable literary experiences and memories forged throughout your journey. Until next time!
Dates, Costs, Inclusions, and Other Details:
Tentative Dates
- June 19, 2026 (depending on flight times) – June 29, 2026
Cost
- $3,300 (plus taxes and surcharges) per person
Payment Schedule
- Deposit: $300—due within two weeks of acceptance on the tour
- First Payment: $1,000—due December 1, 2025
- Second Payment: $1,000—due February 1, 2026
- Final Payment: $1,000—due April 15, 2026
Information about the ARCE cancellation policy and other useful information can be found in the Liability Agreement.
Inclusions
- Full-Time Tour Director
- All UK Transportation
- Guided Sightseeing Tours in London, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Cambridge, and Bath
- Entrance fees to all sites and attractions listed in the itinerary
- West End musical at a London theatre
- Performance at Globe Theatre
- Accommodations (10 overnight stays; shared and/or private accommodations subject to availability; breakfast included)
- One Group Dinner in Stratford-upon-Avon
- Recitation/Reading Sessions and Writing/Journaling Sessions
Exclusions
- Airfare (required)
- Travel Insurance (required)
- Passport and Visa Fees (if applicable)
- Transportation to and from the airport in home state/country
- Additional Food Allowances
- Optional Excursions
- Personal Incidentals
- Medical Expenses not covered by travel insurance
- Tips/Gratuity
- Spending money
- Souvenirs and Gifts
