Calais, Chantilly and Coasters: Educational Adventures in Northern France

Having worked in school travel for more than ten years, I thought I knew Northern France inside out. That was until the Hauts-de-France Tourisme Board introduced us to a few places I had never really considered for school groups. Read on for more of what the region can offer school groups.

Exciting stopover in Calais

Far more than just a port, Calais is an excellent place to break up a journey to or from Paris. Significant investment has transformed the city into an attractive destination in its own right, perhaps most famously with the 35-foot Dragon de Calais, which takes visitors on an exciting journey along the seafront, breathing fire along the way.

Our first visit was the impressive Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, one of the last surviving examples of the collective lace factories that made Calais famous in the 19th century. Still a working production site today, the museum introduces visitors to current collaborations with leading fashion houses.

During a guided tour in French, supported by a translator, we learned how the world-renowned Calais lace is made. The museum itself is highly interactive and engaging, making it a fantastic visit for students studying French or Art & Design

Stunning scenery and workshop in Chantilly

Travelling further south, we arrived in Chantilly, around 90 minutes from central Paris. For groups looking to experience a different side of France beyond the capital, Chantilly offers a charming regional alternative and can easily be visited as a day trip from the capital.

The magnificent Château de Chantilly, once home to the Duc d'Aumale, son of the last King of France, provides beautiful grounds and plenty of space to explore. My personal highlight was the Great Stables, where horses still perform daily equestrian displays.

Overlooking the show ring, we took part in a fascinating Chantilly cream workshop led by a member of La Confrérie des Chevaliers Fouetteurs de Crème Chantilly, the guardians of authentic Chantilly cream. Guided in simple French with support from a translator, we learned the traditional method of whipping cream using a chilled metal bowl. Everyone had the chance to make their own before choosing toppings and flavours. It was a genuinely fun, hands-on activity suitable for all ages and particularly valuable for students on a French language trip.

With its stunning grounds, equestrian heritage and unique workshop experiences, Chantilly makes an excellent day excursion from Paris or a perfect stop between Paris and Calais.

Fun in French at Parc Astérix

Finally, we rounded off the trip with a visit to Parc Astérix, a distinctly French theme park packed with opportunities for language immersion. Native French signage provides authentic language practice, while the impressive rollercoasters deliver plenty of excitement. Queue times are generally manageable and fans of the comics will even spot a real-life Dogmatix in the parade. New additions include an immersive Egyptian-themed area featuring attractions, rides and experiences inspired by ancient Egypt.

For teachers planning school trips to Paris or Northern France, these destinations offer engaging cultural experiences, language-learning opportunities and something a little different from the usual itinerary.

With thanks to our friends at Hauts de France Tourisme for inviting me on this trip.

More about educational trips to France

• Check out Voyager's range of school trips to France
• All about Voyager Campus - our new Paris school centre
• Top tips and guidance on planning your school trip