EAL Students Discover London Landmarks

London is a city steeped in history, culture, and architectural marvels. From ancient castles to modern skyscrapers, the city offers a stunning variety of landmarks that capture the essence of its rich past and vibrant present. On Monday 7th July 2025, Hatch End High EAL students went on a trip to central London to discover some of these most famous landmarks.

The trip was full of excitement starting from the onward journey on the Overground and the Underground. Some of the EAL students went on the tube for the first time in their life! We started our walk through central London from the Tower of London, the historic castle and home of Crown Jewels, and proceeded to walk through Tower Bridge. We were lucky to witness the bridge lift for Sailing Barge Gladys. Our students and staff were very keen to watch that happen!

The EAL students loved the red telephone booths! We learned that they were designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and were first introduced in the 1920s (K1 model), but the most famous is the K6 model, launched in 1936.

We also discussed the tallest building in London, the Shard, as we went past it. We learned it was 310 meters high which makes it the tallest building not just in the UK but also Western Europe with 72 floors and a viewing platform at the top. It was designed by Renzo Piano and completed in 2012.

We enjoyed lunch near the River Themes looking over St Paul’s Cathedral and Blackfriars Bridge and basking in the sun while listening to some street music.

We ended out walk near the Houses of Parliament in Westminster and London Eye. We learned that the Houses of Parliament were rebuilt in 1834 following a fire.

We also watched the London Eye also known as Millenium Wheel as it opened in 2000. The students learned that it was 135 meters high and offered great views of London.

The trip was a real success! Well done EAL team!