On Monday 27th April, the Desmond College Transition Year class departed on their London Tour – a trip of a lifetime! The group of 36 met at Shannon Airport at 5am – and here is where the fun began. After landing and checking into the hotel at the foot of Wembly Stadium, the group travelled the city viewing the famous landmarks of Buckingham Palace, Westminister Square, Big Ben, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. The group travelled around the busy shopping area of Oxford Street and Regent Street before visiting the World Famous Natural History Museum in South Kenningston.
The group browsed, ate and shopped around the busy carnival atmosphere of Covent Garden before resting their legs in New London Theatre to watch the renowned West-End Show of ‘War Horse’. What a thoroughly enjoyable experience that proved to be. Following this the class saw the lights of Piccadilly Circus and Leister Square, including a visit to the sickling sweet M&M store!!
On Tuesday the group departed the hotel to travel to Thorpe Park Theme Park. The sun shone gloriously for the fun-loving and thrill-seeking teenagers (and teachers!) and rides like ‘The Saw’, ‘Swarm’ and ‘Collossis’ were undeniably enjoyed. With smiles still on faces we departed to spend the evening in Westfield shopping centre.
Wednesday proved to be another adventure filled day, with sightseeing around the London Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast ship. The group were treated to a tour of Shakespeare’s reconconstructed Globe Theatre and a workshop on the Shakespearian Play Hamlet (the acting skills of all were highly commendable – and entertaining!). The group discovered their artistic side with a visit to the Tate Modern Art Gallery (and the Star-bucks café next door!). Following this an Underground Train ride to Trafalgar Square – to see the impressive London National Gallery and statues of the iconic Trafalgar square Lions. The group strolled through the streets to do the last bit of shopping and soaking in of the London sights, scenes and atmosphere before leaving to return home. A cram-packed trip – full of new experiences and lots of laughs amidst the wonders of London. A big thank you to Ms Kerrie Collins the TY Co-ordinater for organising a fantastic trip and for making it so special for the students. Thanks also to Mr Donal Enright and Ms Joanne Guiry for going on the trip also.
