Jewels of England: A Journey of History, Heritage & Hospitality

23. 6. 2025

England? Isn’t it all rain, plain food, and reserved people? That’s what we thought—until we went. Our Jewels of England journey shattered every stereotype and we found stunning landmarks, flavourful dishes, and warm, welcoming hosts who made us feel right at home. 

June 14–21, 2025 

In June, 45 second-grade students from our grammar school set off on an unforgettable journey through England—discovering ancient landmarks, charming villages, and even real cheese caves. But first came a magical stop in Brugge, Belgium, where canal boat rides and the best Belgian waffles kicked off the adventure. Crossing the Channel by ferry, we were welcomed by the chalk cliffs of Dover—bright, bold, and cinematic. Our first destination was Bath, a city where Roman baths meet Georgian elegance. It felt as though we’d stepped into a period drama. 

Next came the mystery of Stonehenge, surrounded by massive stones that have stood for over 4,000 years, we couldn’t help but wonder about the people who built it—and why. Followed by Salisbury, where we stood in awe before its grand cathedral and viewed the historic Magna Carta. Nearby, Wells and Winchester impressed us with their cathedrals, too, quaint streets, old-world charm, and much more.

In Cheddar, we explored dramatic gorges, limestone caves, and tasted real cave-aged cheese—delicious and unforgettable! That same day, Glastonbury brought a unique, mystical vibe, from its hilltop Tor to the legendary ruins of its abbey.

Oxford was like stepping into a storybook (or a Harry Potter film), and the Cotswolds offered picture-perfect villages and peaceful countryside views—a moment to slow down and take it all in.

Finally, we reached London. A boat cruise on the Thames, iconic sights like Big Ben and the London Eye, and the city’s exciting buzz made for a perfect grand finale.

However, this journey wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about discovering new cultures, making lifelong memories, and seeing the world through new eyes. What truly made this trip special were our host families. They welcomed us as their own—cooking meals, sharing their way of life, and making us feel less like tourists and more like part of the local community.

Thank you, England. Every stop on our Jewels of England journey sparkled in its own way and we came home with full hearts, new friendships, and stories to last a lifetime.