Tudors / Henry VIII: Venues and Resources

Power and Personality

A school residential trip focusing on the Tudors and the dramatic reign of Henry VIII brings the 16th century to life, allowing students to explore the monumental changes to Church and State through immersive experiences and authentic historical artifacts.

The South Coast boasts incredible Tudor history, from Henry VIII's imposing coastal artillery forts built to defend against European invasion, to the remains of sweeping monastic estates dismantled during the Reformation. By exploring these historic sites, pupils gain a tangible understanding of how the Tudor dynasty reshaped England.

• Castles and Coastal Defence: Students can explore Henry VIII's network of formidable artillery forts (the Device Forts) and discover the origins of the Royal Navy, understanding the technological shifts in 16th-century warfare and national security.
• The English Reformation: Interactive experiences help pupils investigate the break with Rome and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, examining the massive transfer of wealth and power, and how religious upheaval impacted everyday Tudor society.
• Tudor Life and Society: Through immersive workshops, children can contrast the extravagant lives, fashion, and feasts of Tudor royalty with the harsh realities of the poor, bringing the vibrant culture of the 1500s into sharp focus.

Browse our curated selection of venues and educational activities below to build the perfect Tudor history itinerary for your class.