Episode 176 – A Literary-Themed UK Family Adventure (Part 1)

In the latest episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins invites listener Lauren Eanes to share her family’s unique and inspiring literary-themed adventure across England. Lauren, a Lutheran pastor from Virginia, used her love for books to craft a sabbatical trip for her blended family of six, resulting in an unforgettable and enriching experience.

As a pastor, Lauren understands the importance of taking time away from the daily routine to rejuvenate and reconnect with loved ones. With this in mind, she planned a trip that would not only be enjoyable but also educational and meaningful for her family. And what better way to do that than through their shared love for literature?

The trip began with a visit to the picturesque village of Haworth, home to the famous Bronte sisters. As avid readers, the family was thrilled to walk in the footsteps of their favorite authors and see the places that inspired their beloved novels. From the Bronte Parsonage Museum to the moors that inspired Wuthering Heights, the family immersed themselves in the world of the Brontes and gained a deeper understanding of their literary works.

Next on the itinerary was a stop at the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare. The family attended a performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, an experience that left them in awe of the timeless words and stories of the Bard. They also visited Shakespeare’s birthplace and other significant sites related to his life and works.

But the literary adventure didn’t end there. The family also made a stop at Oxford, known as the “City of Dreaming Spires” and home to the prestigious University of Oxford. Here, they explored the city’s rich literary history, from the famous Bodleian Library to the pubs frequented by literary greats like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. The family even took a tour of the university, where they learned about the literary societies and traditions that have shaped the minds of many renowned authors.

One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the charming village of Chawton, where the beloved author Jane Austen spent the last eight years of her life. The family visited her former home, now a museum, and walked through the rooms where she wrote some of her most famous works. They also explored the village and its surroundings, which served as the setting for many of Austen’s novels.

As a family of book lovers, the Eanes family couldn’t miss a trip to the iconic city of London. Here, they visited the British Library, home to some of the most significant literary treasures in the world, including the original manuscripts of works by Shakespeare, Austen, and many others. They also took a literary walking tour, following in the footsteps of famous authors and discovering hidden literary gems in the city.

Throughout their journey, the Eanes family not only visited significant literary sites but also immersed themselves in the culture and history of England. They tried traditional English food, attended local events, and interacted with the friendly locals, making their trip even more enriching and memorable.

As Tracy and Lauren discuss in the podcast, the trip was not just about visiting places but also about creating lasting memories and bonding as a family. Lauren’s thoughtful planning and attention to detail ensured that each member of the family had a unique and meaningful experience, making the trip a true sabbatical for the mind, body, and soul.

In conclusion, the Eanes family’s literary-themed adventure across England is a testament to the power of literature to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences. It also highlights the importance of taking a break from the daily routine and exploring new places with loved ones. As Lauren says in the podcast, “Books can take you on a journey, but there’s nothing like experiencing the places that inspired them in person.” So, why not plan your own literary adventure and discover the magic of England through the pages of your favorite books?