Institute of Continuing Education (ICE)
This summer we're offering a range of optional Weekend Excursions to add to your experience on the International Summer Programme. Take time out to join one of our Cambridge city centre walking tours or join an excursion further afield and lean more about England's rich heritage.
Start your stay in Cambridge with a guided tour from See Cambridge Differently. This is an ideal way to find your bearings and learn more about the city that (we hope) will become your home away from home. As you’re led through the city by an experienced local guide, you’ll discover its iconic landmarks and captivating history. You will gain insight on both the ‘town’ and ‘gown’ perspectives, and learn about Cambridge's development from a medieval market town to the hi-tech city it is today.
Please note: due to time restrictions it will not be possible to enter any of the Colleges, but you will be able to explore these in your own time during your stay in Cambridge.
Visit the historic city of Ely, dominated by its magnificent cathedral which was built in 1084 and is renowned for two 14th century additions: The Lady Chapel, rich in delicate carved stonework and the Central Octagon, fashioned from huge oaks. The cathedral’s stained glass museum contains examples from medieval to modern times. Oliver Cromwell's House, now a visitors’ centre, is located nearby. This excursion includes a guided tour of the Cathedral.
Bletchley Park is located in the village of Bletchley, close to Milton Keynes in the county of Buckinghamshire. The work of the now famous Bletchley Park code breaking pioneers such as Alan Turing and Dilly Knox affected the fate of nations during World War II and shortened it by at least two years. Since then, countless millions have been affected by what happened in complete secrecy on this site.
It is estimated that over 10,000 people worked at "BP" during the height of wartime activity. Working conditions were cramped and spartan and the work itself often arduous. But for many recruits it was the time of their lives.
By March 1946 they were all gone removing every scrap of their code breaking activities as they left. Winston Churchill said of those at Bletchley that they were "the geese that laid the golden eggs...but never cackled". This secrecy lasted until the 1970s and so strong was their code that many still refuse to reveal exactly what happened. More recently BP has been the subject of many documentaries and books including the Robert Harris novel "Enigma" which was turned into a major film worldwide.
Norwich, the ancient capital of East Anglia, is a beautiful and historic city. The streets, alleys and numerous medieval churches illustrate how prosperous the city has been for nearly a thousand years. Take time to explore the narrow cobbled streets before going on to the magnificent Cathedral with its distinctive tower and spire. Find out more about the unique roof bosses and wander round the monastic cloisters. A short walk from the Cathedral lies the Castle. Once a royal palace, the Norman keep dominates the city below. The Castle is now the centrepiece of a museum housing an intriguing collection of archaeology, natural history and art.
Please review our Excursions booking terms and conditions here.
More information about prices and bookings can be found on the VLE once your application has been accepted.
Do you have any questions? Contact us here »
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