Celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, or "Great Charter," (June 15) by driving one or more of the six Magna Carta Trails. Located
throughout England, the routes are designed to actively engage visitors
in the history of the Magna Carta, the document that established the
principle that no man, not even the king, is above the law. The landmark
charter helped shape modern judicial systems.
Each trail includes key charter towns; historical sites related to the year 1215; and 800th-anniversary events, such as the official commemoration ceremony at Runnymede Meadows (June 15) and the Magna Carta Festival (June 13-14).
"The Chapter House is regarded as one of Europe's
most beautiful medieval buildings, and, with a stunning cathedral that
boasts Britain's tallest [spire], this visit is not simply a quick stop
on a trail but a unique and breathtaking snapshot of world
history," says Ruth Lancey, director of Great British Trips.
Her recommendation: Allow ample time to "quietly contemplate, marvel,
and meditate on the sacred, significant, and spiritual wonder of all
this building has to offer."
How to Get Around: Review the Magna Carta Trails
to chart a single- or multitrail driving route based on your interests
and time. The suggested itineraries are two to four days depending on
the route. Rent a car at the airport closest to your desired starting
point. Or combine highlights of each trail on Great British Trips'
11-night Magna Carta Trail Tour and travel by rail, rental car, and the Tube (London Underground).
Where to Stay: Rustic and modern
self-catering cottages, and rooms on working farms and in Victorian
farmhouses, are available through the farmer-owned Farm Stay consortium. Accommodations are organized by region, making it easy to find options on or near the trails you are driving.
Where to Eat: Embrace your inner knight at the Medieval Banquet London.
The four-course feast fit for a king includes red wine and ale, and
sides of sword fighting, dancing, and singing. The interactive dinner
theater experience is staged within the vaulted cellars of the historic
Ivory House in St. Katharine Docks. While not required, diners can
become part of the two-hour show by donning period dress. Rental
costumes (including lords, ladies, jesters, and wenches) are available
nightly on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Buy: The online Magna Carta Shop features approved Magna Carta Trust
800th-anniversary items, including 480 framed Magna Carta facsimiles
created on hand-cut parchment to replicate the appearance of the
original.
What to Watch Before You Go: Narrated by British comedian, actor, and author Terry Jones of Monty Python fame, the animated short films What Is Magna Carta? and 800 Years of Magna Carta provide a quick (less than eight minutes) and entertaining overview of the celebrated document's history and legacy.
Practical Tip: To spend
more time walking and less time in traffic or searching for parking, use
the convenient park-and-ride sites located just outside the towns and
cities along the Magna Carta Trails (and throughout England). Park for
free or a nominal fee in the park-and-ride lot, and then, ride a bus or
tram (streetcar) to the nearby city or town center.
Helpful Links: Magna Carta 800th and Magna Carta Trails
Fun Fact: The National Trust is encouraging Britons
to host afternoon "LiberTeas" on June 14, the day before the Magna
Carta's anniversary. During the nationwide teatime, participants can
tune into BBC coverage of the parade of boats—including the royal barge Gloriana.