Mont Saint Michel
The Monastery of Mont St Michel is situated on a tidal island just off the coast on the border between Brittany and Normandy. The site was originally a Benedictine Monastery when it was constructed in 966 but as its importance as a place of worship dwindled, it was used for many things including a jail in the 18th and 19th centuries. The building has been in the hands of the French Government since 1874. At low tide, you can walk to the island and scale the steep, narrow and winding streets to the abbey at the top and there are plenty of shops and restaurants on the way up to keep everyone entertained.
Musée National de l'Education
In this museum you can learn all about the French education system all the way from the Renaissance period to French education in the 21st century.
Museé Des Beaux Arts
Located in the city centre, the Musée des Beaux Arts boasts one of the most prestigious collections of religious art in France with works form the 16th century to modern day religious paintings
Guided Tour of Rouen
There are many different guided tours of the city that would be relevant to a variety of subjects, each one lasting approximately two hours. The most popular tour is of the city's main attractions that takes visitors around the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Gros Horloge tower and the Place du Vieux Marché where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake.
Rouen
The beautiful city of Rouen is the capital of Normandy and the Seine-Maritime region and is a fascinating place with plenty of things to do and see. The city was very close to Victor Hugo's heart and is known as 'La ville aux cent clochers' for its many bell-towers
Les Andelys - Chateau Gaillard
This striking chateau commands breathtaking views of the Seine. Built in the 12th century by Richard the Lionheart, King of England and Duke of Normandy, the chateau was an important stronghold in a vast network of castles that defended the area. During the Wars of Religion, after a two-year siege, Chateau Gaillard's defences were defeated by Henri IV.
Chateau de la Roche-Guyon
Located in one of France's most beautiful villages, the Chateau de la Roche-Guyon is an excellent attraction for History or Geography groups. It sits atop the chalk cliffs of the Seine. The ancient dungeons are to be found deep in the cliffs and are connected to the chateau via a staircase that has been carved into the chalk. If you're not afraid of the dark, how about visiting the ancient chateau at night?!
Giverny
The Seine region was the birthplace of Impressionism and home to the famous artist Claude Monet who moved to the area in 1883. You can visit his home in Giverny, explore the gardens and see the famous bridge that appears in his work.
Bayeux Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry is the only example of a work of its kind. It was woven in the 11th century and measures 70 metres in length. The work recounts the story of William the Conqueror as crossed the Channel in 1066 to do battle with the Saxon army led by King Harold.
Second World War Cemeteries
It is possible to visit many cemeteries of Second World War victims in the area including British, American, French and German ones. Bayeux, Saint-Manvieu and Ranville are among the largest British cemeteries in the area. The American cemetery in Colleville-sur-mer, near Omaha Beach, is especially large and a visit there can prove rather emotional. There are 9,386 graves in the cemetery - each one labelled with a white cross in perfectly straight lines. Another cemetery that is sure to make a lasting impression on anyone studying the Second Word War is the German cemetery in La Cambe, where over 20,000 Germans are buried in groups of five black crosses. Contact us for further information regarding different cemeteries or if you wish to organise a guided tour of some of the most important ones.
Musée du Débarquement, Arromanches
When it was decided in 1943 that the British and American armies should attempt to land on the European coast, Normandy seemed to be the best target because the Germans weren't expecting it. One of the reasons for this was that there wasn't a large enough port to land heavy machinery. Therefore they had to build two artificial harbours, one in Arromanches (in the British sector) and another near Omah Beach (in the American sector). The museum is located on the beach in front of the vestiges of the artificial harbour that once stood there. The exhibition traces the history of the British forces who used the latest technology to build the harbour.
Arromanches 360°
This 18-minute film in the cinema above the village of Arromanches is sure to bring the war to life for the pupils. You are surrounded by the video that is shown on a total of nine screens in a spherical room - an experience that make you feel as though you're part of the action. The film itself is a combination of original wartime video footage and images of the area as it is today. Outside the cinema, it is possible to look out to sea and imagine how it must have been for the soldiers manning the higher points. Weather permitting, the group can walk down the footpath to Arromanches itself where the bus could come to meet you
Musée Mémorial Pegasus and Pegasus Bridge
It was on Pegasus Bridge that the gliders of the 6th Airborne Division landed in the middle of the night between June 5 and 6 1944. The event was very significant as it was the first defeat for the Allies. Nowadays, the new museum that is situated next to the bridge housing exhibitions in memory of the soldiers of the 6th Airborne Division
Caen Mémorial
This museum was opened on June 6 1988 and focuses specifically on 20th century history. The exhibition focuses on three subjects: the Second World War, the Cold War Period and the aim of achieving world peace. The third section encourages visitors to reflect on the notion of peace and reminds us of the fragility of peace. The museum conveys information in an interesting way and aims to make the exhibitions as relevant to modern life as possible. In 2006, a permanent exhibition questioning the importance of oil was opened. The exhibition poses the question of how we would live without this precious commodity.
Musée des Beaux Arts
The Fine Art Museum in Caen houses a wide variety of works from paintings by Italian and Flemish 15th century artists to modern works by French artists. The most famous works include paintings by Poussin, Géricault and Monet.
Caen
Caen, the capital of the Basse-Normandie region, was mostly destroyed during the Second World War and very few of the original buildings remain. In spite of this, many impressive buildings survived the bombardments during the war. These include the impressive churches of the Abbaye des Hommes and the Abbaye des Femmes. The Caen Mémorial is also a popular attraction in the city
Parc Bagatelle
A fun day out, this clown-themed amusement park has water rides, run-away trains and a swinging galleon. Generally suitable for younger pupils up to Year 9.
Boulogne guided tour
A walking tour of the Boulogne Old Town with its medieval ramparts, winding cobbled streets, castle and cathedral is highly recommended. An English-speaking guide will take you through the fascinating history of this beautifully preserved town. This tour takes 1½ hour
Chocolaterie
On this visit your group will be shown the entire chocolate making process, with an explanation of the origins of the chocolate, the recipe and how it is made by hand in the chocolaterie. There is, of course, the opportunity to sample the produce and buy some souvenirs from the shop.
Meal in Boulogne
A good way to break up the day and experience French cuisine. Local snacks available are Croque Monsieur or a savoury crêpe. The local favourite is called "le Welsh", a French take on the traditional Welsh rarebit! Why not get your group to order their meals in French?
Soirée Crêpes
Visit a local, typically French café for a delicious crêpe and the opportunity to make your own crêpe under the careful supervision of the restaurateurs. A great chance to practise language and culinary skills!
Nausicaa
Nausicaa is a unique place where visitors can discover the marine environment. Entertaining, educational and scientific, the Centre's main focus is on the relationship between Man and the Sea. This sea-life centre has been designed to raise public awareness about the importance of managing the oceans and their resources.
Dairy Farm
This visit provides an excellent insight to a working farm and a chance to see rare breeds of cows and sheep. A tour of the farm includes a visit to the cowshed where calves are fed, cows are milked and the produce is processed using modern techniques. This provides an introduction to a modern farm for those unfamiliar with the world of agriculture and is a learning experience in sustainable farming for everyone. The farm shop sells farm produce as well as locally produced vegetables, cheese and preserves. Visitors are given a taste of the farm's milk and yoghurt or locally produced fruit juice.
Boulangerie
Visit a traditional bakery and see how the popular French breads such as the baguette and pain de campagne are made. A visit includes time in the old bakery with its wood-burning stove as well as seeing the cakes and pastries made in the modern ovens. Your group will also have the opportunity to make a croissant and try some of the bakery's produce. (Please note, this visit is not suitable for those with severe nut allergies).
Paris Miniature
Have fun with the first ever 3D interactive model of Paris! 150 touch slides and 3 touch screens help you to locate most monuments and places of interest on the 6 Sq.m model of Paris.
Parc Astérix
If you'd like to visit a French-themed park, there's nothing better than a visit to Parc Astérix. Based on the famous characters from the Astérix and Obelix books, a visit to this park is bound to be plenty of fun and a chance to give your pupils a taste of French culture.
Tour Montparnasse
A chance to admire the city's attractions from a considerably more modern tower than the Eiffel Tower. Go up in the lift to the 56th floor, day or night, and be amazed by the spectacular views you will see. This is a good activity to do of an evening to keep the pupils occupied
Grévin
See waxwork statues of some of France's most important people and events over the centuries - from the burning of Jeanne d'Arc to the murder of Henri IV. An excellent way to bring history alive and allow pupils to become more familiar with the history of France.
Musée des Egouts
The visit to Paris' sewers is a unique experience and is bound to intrigue your pupils. The sewage system was started back in 1370, when the first sewer was built by Hudgues Aubritot. On your visit, you will see the development of the system from the 14th century to the present day. The museum is located in a part of the enormous network of sewers and visitors see what happens to the water under the surface of the ground and learn about the role of the sewer workers. (Closed on Thursdays and Fridays and for a fortnight every January.)
Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
Where better to take schoolchildren to learn about science and have fun at the same time? Parts of the exhibition are aimed at those with a very basic science knowledge while others are for students of specific scientific subjects. The central part of the exhibition, Centra, is for those with a basic knowledge of science. Exhibitions are temporary and change regularly. Contact us for more information about what's on there at the moment. The newly-renovated planetarium is a fantastic opportunity to see the stars as you travel from planet to planet and explore space. This is an interesting and attractive way of introducing science to young people. There is a room available where groups can eat their picnic lunches.
As well as the exhibitions, the centre also houses specialist cinemas where you can appreciate films in a different environment.
Batobus
A convenient way of travelling between some of Paris' attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre and Notre-Dame is to catch a boat travelling down the Seine. These boats are a public transport service, rather than a service specifically for tourists, so there is no commentary for the attractions you pass. But this is a convenient and fun way of travelling from one attraction to another. A single trip ticket is available or you can also buy a day-long ticket so that you can jump on and off as you wish.
Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur
Where better to bring your pupils for a true taste of the city's atmosphere than the area of Montmartre and the Place du Tertre outside the famous Sacré Coeur church? Admire the fantastic views of the city from the square, which is always buzzing with all the artists and musicians there, not to mention all the street vendors selling all kinds of Parisian souvenirs! The beautiful Sacré Coeur church was built in the 19th century and the highest point of its dome is the second highest point in Paris after the Eiffel Tower!
Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a celebration of contemporary art, theatre, literature, music and cinema. The cultural institution was the idea of President Georges Pompidou, who wanted a centre to celebrate modern and contemporary creation of all kinds. The building itself is an example of contemporary architecture and was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. Following extensive renovations, the centre re-opened to the public on 1 January 2000 and has since become one of the most visited attractions in France with around six million people passing through its doors every year. As well as visiting the exhibitions inside the building, the piazza outside is a great place for people-watching as you eat your lunch. The nearby fountain complete with colourful water features is a must for any trip to Paris, and is bound to capture anyone's imagination.
The centre houses one of the most important museums in the world which features one of the best collections of modern and contemporary art in Europe. There is also a cinema and a musical research centre as well as an area dedicated to educational activities. Whatever your interest in the creative sector, there is bound to be something for you here.
Boat trip on the Seine
What better way to appreciate the city of Paris than from a boat cruise down the Seine? See some of the city's most well-known sights, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral, all from the comfort of your seat. Multilingual commentary is included in most trips. Departure points include Le Pont Neuf, Eiffel Tower and Pont de L'Alma.
Disneyland® Resort Paris
A visit to Disneyland® Resort Paris is a fantastic way to combine fun with education. Disney has developed three education workbooks covering a range of subjects which can be downloaded from the new website www.disneylandparis4schools.com. The workbooks are aimed at supporting the National Curriculum for England and Wales at KS3, but can be adapted for younger students. As well as seeing the magical world of Disney come alive in the parades and attractions of Disneyland® Park, groups can also include the Walt Disney Studios® Park in their visit, where visitors go behind the scenes to see how special effects for famous TV, film and animated features are created. Complete the adventure by finishing your day with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show.
You can either visit with a one or two-day Disney Park Hopper Ticket and enjoy both the Disneyland Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park on the same day, or stay for two days and visit each park on a different day.
Please contact us for more information on ticket prices, shows and supporting educational materials.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower may well be the most well-known tower in the world, but it never loses its appeal or popularity for visitors to Paris. It was originally built in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, to celebrate the centenary of the Revolution. It was 320m (1050feet) high, and was the highest building in the world before the Chrysler Building was erected in New York. The city's literary and artistic elite was opposed to the tower at first, and it was nearly demolished in 1909. But it proved to be a very useful place for all the antennae needed for new technological advancements and so was left in place. If you're feeling particularly energetic, you can climb the stairs to the second floor, or you can take the lift to the top. If you want to walk halfway, you will have to join the lift on the second floor to reach the top.
Notre-Dame de Paris
The Cathédrale de Notre Dame is at the heart of Paris, in the true meaning of the word. The cathedral is situated right in the centre of the city, on the island of l'Ile de la Cité. It has also been the focus of Parisian Catholic life for seven centuries. Other churches stood on the same site before work began on the present one in 1163. The building work was completed in the 14th century. The cathedral is a wonderful example of French Gothic architecture. It can hold up to 6,000 people and its magnificent rose windows are well worth a visit.
Musée d'Orsay
Since 1986, this art museum has been home to a large collection of works from the 19th century, as well as France's biggest collection of avant-garde art from the early 20th century. Here, you can see some of the most well-known Impressionist works, including Renoir's portrait of Montmartre and The Siesta by Van Gogh. The museum is considerably smaller than the Louvre and it is maybe a bit easier to navigate your way around the buildings and the collection of works. Originally built as a railway station, the building stopped being used for this purpose during the Second World War and was used as a mailing centre and as a set for several films, including the film adaptation of Kafka's The Trial. It was finally decided to turn the building into an art museum in the late 1970s, and the impressive architecture provides a stunning backdrop to the works of the masters.
The Louvre Museum
The Louvre is one of Paris' most famous museums. Known as the museum which houses one of the world's most famous paintings, the Mona Lisa, the Louvre has also enjoyed a great deal of attention recently due to its link with the popular work of fiction, The Da Vinci Code. A special trail has even been devised for those wishing to see the works featured in the book and film. A total of 35,000 works are housed in the museum displayed in 60,000 metres square of exhibition space. A guided tour will help you focus on the works or periods which most interest you and give you the most out of your visit.
