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Introducing Your Family to British Literature
By Patty Suchy, Novel Explorations
Don’t get scared by the word “literature.” I know you may be thinking, “Literature, a high-brow term for writings usually associated with college studies and not for family fun.” Well, I think I can change your mind, at least when I comes to thinking about literary Britain. That’s because one of the main dictionary definitions of literature is “a writing having permanent worth.” If you think of it along those lines, then there are numerous British writings that have been around for many generations to enjoy – including many that your parents introduced you to when you were young.
Where to start on a literary tour is probably the more difficult question to answer when taking your family to England. There is so much to choose from. But I guess the best location to start would be one of the most popular places – London. Whether it’s the statue of Peter Pan in Kensington Park or the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street, you’ll find things of interest for all members of your family.
Of course the pre-teen set is probably going to be interested in one of Britain’s latest literary heroes: Harry Potter. There are several Potter sights throughout Britain, some of them in London. King’s Cross Station was used to film the departure of young Harry when he left from Platform 9 ¾ to board Hogwarts Express bound for his new school. And then there is the London Zoo, set on the edge of Regent’s Park, which has a wonderful reptile house, where Harry first learns of his ability to talk to snakes.
Some companies are now offering day trips outside of London to capture other Potter sights. The British Tourist Authority has published a Harry Potter map including accompanying ideas for discovering the magic of Britain.
Depending on the age of your children, please consider visiting Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. They offer wonderful behind-the-scenes tours. You most likely will also have the opportunity to see a production (although I would book this in advance). The opportunity to see literary history come to life will have a long lasting impression on any student who has to read Shakespeare. And after all, what teenager wouldn’t be impressed with seeing a production of Romeo and Juliet?
The Shakespeare connection continues outside of London in Stratford Upon Avon, with the opportunity to visit his home as well as see other productions
Why not enjoy other theater while in London? Mary Poppins based on the book by P.L Travers, is the latest highly anticipated musical set to open in late 2004. Of course, tickets for this production should be purchased well in advance of your visit.
You can go through a ticket broker, but I’ve found the best course of action is to call the theater directly and purchase the tickets – you often get better seats at a better price, but don’t plan on trying to get this production’s tickets at the half price ticket booth on the day of performance. However, there are often many other productions geared towards children’s exploration of theater that can be purchased at the last minute.
The riches outside of London
Departing London, no matter in what direction you go, you’ll find a place to visit that will bring well loved books to life. If you’re a fan of The Tale of Peter Rabbit and other Beatrix Potter favorites, then visit her home in the Lake District. You’ll see how she used her retreat in the creation of characters in her many stories.
Oxford offers the opportunity to explore a variety of different authors’ inspirations, including Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia, and J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit.
And wouldn’t the kids like to see a real life chocolate factory similar to the one in Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? Well then a visit to Cadbury World in Birmingham would be a delightful and sweet day’s adventure for the whole family. There’s something for all ages including rides and shows all revolving around that glorious treat – chocolate.
Is your family a fan of E. Nesbit’s The Railway Children? Then you might want to head to Haworth, a wonderful and charming village in Yorkshire. Better known for its connection to the Brontes, the village was used in the British production of the movie version of the book. Here you not only can explore the charm of the village, but also take a short journey on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
And then there’s A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh. You can visit Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. The information center offers a helpful pamphlet that provides two Pooh walks. You can follow a path taking you to Poohsticks Bridge and other Pooh-related spots. Plus this is a good day out in the country exploring nature.
Another aspect of literary Britain is to become better acquainted with some of the legends in many of the books we loved as kids. Certainly the tales of Robin Hood have crossed your family’s path, so a visit to Nottingham will bring you closer to this legend.
And of course there are many stories revolving around King Arthur and his knights. You’ll find several places that can bring you closer to what life was like in a castle. One that caters to families and education is Warwick Castle in Warwickshire. Here you also have the opportunity to attend a medieval banquet and jousting tournament. Again advance reservations are encouraged.
Another opportunity that awaits you in your visit is to bring back some books that you can’t easily get outside of Britain. London is filled with wonderful bookstores. But if you have the opportunity, a visit to Haye on Wye located just across the border into Wales, is a must-see on your places to visit. Here you have a whole town (small village) dedicated to books. Both new and used are available.
Some books you may also find helpful include:
London with Kids – Great Things to do Together in the City and Beyond – a Fodor’s Guide
And of course, contact your travel agent for help in planning your itinerary. He or she can offer you expert advice on what will work best for your family travels.