Why the London Dungeon should be part of your next residential school trip itinerary

One of the UK’s most iconic attractions, the London Dungeon has been bringing some of the UK’s darkest and most macabre historical events to life for decades. During its 90-minute tour, guests embark on a journey through 1,000 years of history, presented by a combination of fantastic live actors, startling special effects, and thrilling rides.

Recently, the Equity team visited the Dungeon, delving into the – often gruesome – events depicted there. Here’s why we’ll recommend it to our school groups when booking their next residential school trips to London – and how we know your students won’t stop talking about it afterwards.

Covering different curriculum bases

During a visit to the London Dungeon, you’ll find several crossovers between the theatrical performances and the curriculum. While some topics featured (the Great Fire of London, Gunpowder Plot) are covered in the Key Stage 1 curriculum, London Dungeon also offers context to aid Key Stage 2 and even Key Stage 3 learnings (Jack the Ripper, Black Death).

Aside from learning opportunities in history and religious studies, the London Dungeon also immerses English and drama students through its performances. With its clever combination of scriptwriting, lighting, sound, stage design and costume, many students will learn something from spending time here.

Breaking up the day with entertainment

With so many landmarks telling decades of history, London is an excellent destination for a residential trip. But – take it from us – your students will quickly fatigue if your London school trip itinerary is too heavy with educational activities. Dividing up your day with something on the more ‘fun’ end of the scale is a sure-fire way to keep students of any age engaged and willing to learn.

This is where the London Dungeon performs best: as a happy medium. Lying somewhere between a museum and a theme park, the attraction features interactivity, humour, two rides, and walking time to reflect between each of its 19 segments. The excitement of not quite knowing what will come next will keep your students on their toes, while the short breaks are guaranteed to keep them engaged during your 90-minute visit.

An excellent bonding experience

Research supports the notion that having positive shared experiences – including trips to museums – increases feelings of self-esteem and decreases feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation. And where better to share such an experience than the London Dungeon?

For the Equity team, wandering through dark corridors kept us close to one another, and we’re not ashamed to admit we let out a few squeals during the performances. The Dungeon’s actors do an excellent job of keeping things light-hearted (especially a positive for entertaining student groups), however there are more than a few ‘jump’ moments which will have your students talking about their visit for hours later!

Make your next residential trip memorable

With its carefully constructed combination of education and entertainment, the London Dungeon is a gem in any residential school trip itinerary, whether that be a history trip, drama trip, or simply enrichment. What’s more, its location on the South Bank puts groups in an ideal position for exploring nearby landmarks, with the London Eye, River Thames, Tate Modern, Westminster Abbey and Sea Life Aquarium all within walking distance.

At Equity, we really enjoyed our visit to the Dungeon, and have noticed subtle ways the shared experience has contributed to our working environment. Maybe you’ll notice the same positive impact among your students? There’s only one way to find out.

Inspired to learn more about our residential trips and visits to the London Dungeon? Our expert team is ready to advise you. Get in touch on 01273 648248, or email tours@equity.co.uk