World Book Day: Stories from Around Britain and Ireland

6th March 2026

Featuring: World Book Day – Stories from around Britain and Ireland… Happy Friday everyone and a very good afternoon from Best Value Tours and our sister Backpacker Tours where today we have a lovely feature about World Book Day yesterday and events in Britain and Ireland celebrating and inspiring reading. 

World Book Day – Stories from around Britain and Ireland

World Book Day lit up schools, libraries and communities across Britain and Ireland and indeed around the World yesterday, turning the everyday into something magical. From classrooms to community halls, children, families and book lovers came together to celebrate the joy of stories and have a little fun along the way.

Classrooms were buzzing with excitement as kids arrived dressed as their favourite characters. Princesses, pirates, wizards and superheroes roamed the corridors, each costume a conversation starter about the books behind them. Even the children who don’t normally pick up a book were eager to talk about their characters, proving that stories can spark imagination in everyone.

In London schools kicked off the day with “reading breakfasts,” where families shared stories over tea and juice. Parents joined children in exploring books together, making reading feel less like a lesson and more like an adventure. Over in Manchester libraries staged dramatic storytelling sessions. Puppets, animated readings and interactive plot twists had children shouting suggestions for what should happen next, turning them into tiny co-authors for the day.

Popular costumes  were Harry Potter – see here for the Behind the Scenes Studio Tour 

In Cardiff, a book swap allowed kids to trade old favourites for new adventures, while in Belfast local authors visited schools to share how their childhood love of stories grew into careers as writers. Meeting real authors made students realize that the next great story could come straight from their own imagination.

Bookshops in Dublin were alive with families using World Book Day tokens to choose free books. Everywhere, stories were being discovered, shared, and treasured. Even in small towns across Scotland and Wales, reading circles brought grandparents and grandchildren together, proving that the love of books spans generations.

From costumes to storytelling, swaps, and author visits, World Book Day reminded everyone that reading is fun, creative, and endlessly inspiring. Across Britain and Ireland yesterday was proof that a single book, or a single story can ignite curiosity, laughter and imagination in the most magical ways.

More from Best Value Tours – Stonehenge, UK/Ireland, European, Worldwide and much more Contact details below and do shout, we are happy to help with any questions – Call WhatsApp Email  Contact Us.

Please see below for more previous Helpful Posts from Best Value Tours and our sister-site Backpacker Tours

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Previous posts….

Selling Out Fast – Booking Now for March Discounts (up to 26% off to just £85) Harry Potter – Behind the Scenes Studio Tour 

Step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, a magical experience that invites fans to journey behind the scenes of one of the most beloved film series ever created. Your adventure begins with captivating insights from expert guides who share fascinating stories about the production, from early concept ideas to the intricate craftsmanship that shaped the wizarding world.

These anecdotes set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of the extraordinary artistry that brought the films to life.

As you begin your studio journey, you’ll wander through meticulously preserved sets, authentic costumes, and iconic props while learning how special effects, animatronics, and makeup transformed imagination into cinematic reality. Step into the majestic Great Hall, where countless memorable scenes were filmed, and explore the fascinating details hidden inside Dumbledore’s office.

Continue along the cobblestones of Diagon Alley, passing Ollivanders, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Gringotts, and other iconic shop fronts that defined the magical marketplace. Then head to Platform 9¾ and climb aboard the original Hogwarts Express, a highlight for visitors of all ages.

Throughout the tour, you’ll encounter beloved film elements such as Hagrid’s motorbike, the Gryffindor common room, the boys’ dormitory, Hagrid’s hut, the Potions classroom, and Professor Umbridge’s unmistakably pink office. Each area reveals new layers of detail, showcasing the creativity and innovation behind the series.

This extraordinary tour offers a vivid, behind-the-scenes look at how the Harry Potter films were made, allowing fans to step directly into the magic and experience the wizarding world like never before.

More Discounted Winter Day Tours of/from London

Discounts – Stonehenge Morning Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath with Roman Baths

Experience Stonehenge with rare private access to the Inner Circle, standing among the towering Sarsen stones as an expert guide explains their origins, purpose, and ancient astronomical alignments. Discover features such as the Heel Stone and Altar Stone up close. Continue to the charming village of Lacock, known for its Saxon history, stone cottages, and film locations, with time for an optional meal at a historic pub. Finish in elegant Bath, famed for Georgian architecture and Roman Baths, traveling in comfort with a professional guide.

Discounts – Lunch in Bilbury Cotswolds, Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold

Begin a full-day journey into the Cotswolds in Burford, the charming “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” famed for its sloping High Street and honey-coloured stone buildings. Enjoy free time to explore tea rooms, antique shops, and boutiques. Continue to idyllic Bibury, described by William Morris as the prettiest village in England, set beside the River Coln. Enjoy a two-course lunch at the historic Swan Hotel, if selected. In the afternoon, travel through rolling countryside to Stow-on-the-Wold for a guided walk, before a relaxing return to London at day’s end.

Discounts – London Tour with Harrods Cream Tea & Private River Cruise

Enjoy an unforgettable London sightseeing day with early access to St Paul’s Cathedral, exploring Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece before the crowds and discovering the tombs of Nelson and Wellington. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, subject to availability, then enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Tower of London and admire the Crown Jewels and historic landmarks. Cruise the Thames on a private boat, passing Tower Bridge and Parliament, before finishing with a luxurious Cream Tea at Harrods with Prosecco and live music.

Discounts – Stonehenge and extended all afternoon in Bath with Roman Baths

Journey through England’s ancient wonders and Georgian elegance on a full-day guided tour to Stonehenge and Bath. Begin at UNESCO-listed Stonehenge, walking among the mysterious 5,000-year-old stones while learning the leading theories behind their purpose. Continue to the beautiful city of Bath, arriving in time for lunch and free exploration. Admire graceful crescents, Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and Pulteney Bridge, or visit the Jane Austen Centre. With ample free time, shopping, sightseeing, or afternoon tea, this relaxed tour perfectly blends history, culture, and charm in one memorable day.

Discounts – Stonehenge Morning Express Tour (just Stonehenge)

Depart from Central London and enjoy a comfortable drive directly to Stonehenge, with an extended visit included. On arrival, receive informative site handouts, and gain entrance to both the iconic monument and its exhibition. Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rises from Salisbury’s plains, dating back nearly 5,000 years. Its purpose—solar temple, lunar observatory, or ceremonial site—remains a mystery. Marvel at the colossal stones and ancient engineering while uncovering the secrets of this extraordinary prehistoric site. Optionally, return to London for a traditional fish and chips meal to complete your day.

Small Group Day Tours

Regional UK Departures 

Train Tours

Stonehenge Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath Tour

Evening Sunset Tour

7th, 10th, 14th, 17th and 24th March 2026. 4th or 7th April 2026. 2nd, 5th, 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th 23rd, 26th or 30th May 2026. 2nd, 6th or 9th June 2026. 4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st or 28th July 2026. 1st, 4th, 8th, 11th, 18th, 22nd, 25th or 29th August 2026. 1st, 5th, 8th, 15th or 19th September 2026

Here are a few of our great Tours, found in our Fabulous Wales Collection

Day Tour to Scenic North Wales by Train

Your journey begins in the picturesque seaside town of Conwy, a place celebrated for its remarkably preserved medieval character. Rising above the town is the impressive Conwy Castle, a mighty 13th-century fortress built by Edward I and recognised today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircling the town are the historic walls, which still offer a complete walkway and wonderful views across rooftops, the harbour, and surrounding countryside.

3 Day – Chester, Snowdonia & North Wales

Your Welsh adventure begins now! Prepare to be captivated by the dramatic beauty and rich history of Wales, a land where ancient legends intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. This immersive tour invites you to experience a destination that truly leaves you speechless, proving the old Welsh saying, “The best shortage is a shortage of words.” From towering mountains to battle-scarred castles and charming, unique towns, get ready for an unforgettable journey through a land of unparalleled beauty.

4 Day London, Via Wales To Dublin St Patricks Day Tour

Begin your unforgettable St Patrick’s adventure by meeting your fellow travellers in central London before boarding a luxury air-conditioned coach. As you leave the city behind, enjoy the changing landscapes of England and Wales en route to the ferry crossing over the Irish Sea. Arriving in Dublin, alive with St Patrick’s Day excitement.

5 Day – Ultimate Wales Tour

Embark on an enchanting 5-day Discover Wales tour from London, an unforgettable journey that plunges you into the heart of Welsh history, stunning landscapes, and charming villages. This expert-led mini-coach adventure, with a maximum of 16 guests, ensures an intimate and immersive experience through some of the UK’s most captivating scenery.

5 Day Yorkshire, Wales & Heart of England

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day small-group tour from London, journeying into the captivating heart of England and the dramatic landscapes of North Wales. This meticulously crafted itinerary is perfect for travellers eager to uncover a rich tapestry of history, explore breathtaking national parks and discover charming medieval towns.

6 Day – Authentic Britain Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Great Britain with this captivating “6 Day – Authentic Britain Tour”. Designed for those eager to delve into rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This adventure offers an immersive experience unlike any other. Starting and ending in London, this carefully crafted itinerary ensures you see the very best of England, Wales, and Scotland.

8 Day Wonders of Magnificent Wales

Experience the best of Wales with an intimate group of no more than 18 guests, where every moment is personal, unhurried, and unforgettable. Your journey begins in Cardiff, the vibrant Welsh capital, with a welcoming dinner to kick off the adventure. The next day, explore the Welsh Valleys and Brecon Beacons National Park, including the historic Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths and, time permitting, the Big Pit National Coal Museum. Return to your hotel for a relaxed group dinner, sharing stories of the day.

Image – More outstanding beauty of Wales found here at Cwm Idwal, Ogwen Valley, Snowdonia, North Wales

8 Day – Britain and Ireland Tour

Uncover the rich history and vibrant landscapes of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland and Wales. On this captivating 8 day Britain and Ireland tour. From Shakespeare’s birthplace to the rugged Scottish Highlands, the lively streets of Dublin and the dramatic Welsh coast. This journey promises an immersive experience filled with iconic landmarks, local insights, and unforgettable moments across five incredible countries.

12 Day – Britain and Ireland Tour

Discover the captivating charm and rich history of the British Isles and Ireland on our immersive 12-day “Britain and Ireland Tour”. This enchanting journey, starting and ending in the vibrant city of London, takes you through 26 diverse cities across four remarkable countries: England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Prepare to be swept away by breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and a treasure trove of cultural experiences.

15 Days Chelsea Flower Show and Gardens of England and Wales

Your journey begins in London, where tradition, pageantry and green spaces set the tone for an immersive exploration of England and Wales. Settled in the heart of the capital, you are welcomed with classic landmarks, riverside vistas and a relaxed introduction alongside fellow travellers. From royal palaces and historic streets, London reveals its layered story before giving way to some of the country’s most celebrated gardens and landscapes.

16 Day – Britain and Ireland Tour

The “16 Day – Britain and Ireland” tour offers a comprehensive journey through the rich history, vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of two captivating islands. This immersive trip allows you to uncover the legendary tales and iconic landmarks that define England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.

22 Day Premium Britain and Ireland Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 22 day premium Britain and Ireland tour through captivating landscapes and rich histories. This meticulously designed tour promises an immersive experience, blending iconic landmarks with authentic local encounters. From the historic streets of England to the dramatic beauty of Scotland and the enchanting allure of Ireland. Prepare to uncover centuries of stories and create lasting memories.

Indulging the King Arthur, Merlin and Stonehenge Legends

Imagine wandering through misty hills, ancient stone circles and quiet forests, feeling like you have stepped into history. This is the thrill you get when you chase the legends of King Arthur, Britain’s most famous and maybe most mysterious king. Arthur is not in a strict sense historical, but there is plenty of clues he was so make your own mind up as you unravel this wonderful mystery. He might be part history, part myth, but his legend has left footprints across the British landscape that are an absolute must to explore today.

Arthur’s story begins according to medieval tales, his birth foretold by Merlin, the enigmatic wizard who seems to exist somewhere between magician, advisor and cosmic life coach. Merlin is the mastermind behind Arthur’s rise. He hides the boy from enemies, plots the moment when Arthur will reveal himself as the true king and teaches him the skills he will need to rule wisely. Without Merlin, there is a good chance Arthur might just be like many before and after, another forgotten noble.

The legend does not live in a vacuum, Britain itself becomes a stage for Arthurian adventure. Tintagel Castle in Cornwall is said to be Arthur’s birthplace, perched dramatically on cliffs above the Atlantic, a magnificent structure in part still there. Add in the mystical allure of Glastonbury, where monks in the 12th century claimed to have discovered Arthur’s grave among the abbey ruins. And of course, the enigmatic Stonehenge, though older than Arthur by thousands of years, it ties into Arthurian myth through Merlin’s magic, said to have magically transported its stones from faraway lands.

Traveling through these magical and mystic locations today, it’ is easy to feel the whisper of legend in the wind. You can almost hear the clash of swords, see knights riding through foggy valleys or imagine Merlin chanting spells in a hidden grove. Whether you are a  history buff or just chasing a sense of magic, exploring the landscapes tied to King Arthur, you will be stepping into a tale that has been told for centuries; full of mystery, romance and that British charm that makes every legend feel alive.

Image – Mystic and Magical Glastonbury Tor or perhaps the Isle of Avalon? As it would have looked around 1000 years ago in Arthurian times

Part Two: Is Mystic and Magical Glastonbury Tor the Isle of Avalon

Can mystical and magical Glastonbury Tor be the lost Isle of Avalon? Well it is certainly possible and the Tor would have been an Island around 1000 years ago in Arthurian times. Today wandering through Somerset with even a flicker of interest in King Arthur, Glastonbury Tor has a way of pulling you in. The hill rises so suddenly from the landscape that it feels staged, as if someone placed it there for dramatic effect. 

As you walk toward the Tor, it is easy to imagine how it once appeared to medieval travellers. The Somerset Levels were marshland for much of history, so the Tor would have looked like a lone island rising from the water. Mysterious, unreachable and absolutely perfect for legends‑making that still persist today so surely this magical location has connection to Arthur, what do you think? Even today, mist often curls around the slopes in the early morning, wrapping the hill in a dreamy haze that makes it feel half‑real, half‑myth. You don’t need much imagination to picture Arthur’s wounded body being carried across those waters.

Image – Glastonbury Tor as we find it today

Glastonbury itself has been a spiritual magnet for centuries, long before Arthurian stories took hold. That reputation made it fertile ground for myth. And then, in the 12th century, the monks at Glastonbury Abbey announced they had found King Arthur’s grave. Pilgrims poured in. Donations soared. Suddenly Glastonbury wasn’t just a holy site, it truly was the Avalon. The monks seem to have believed their discovery and whilst still debated, but the legend sticks fast.

Historians will tell you there’s no archaeological proof that Glastonbury Tor is Avalon, but stand at the top, wind tugging at your clothes, the ruined tower silhouetted against the sky, the Levels stretching out like a silver sea, it feels ancient, enchanted and rather magical, so is Glastonbury Tor the Isle of Avalon? Wander its paths, breathe in that misty air and you might find yourself thinking it just could be, because it certainly feels like it. Wishing you all fun touring this magical and mystic location full of history and legend. A true jewel of South-West England.

Part Three Tintagel Castle, Birthplace of Arthur? 

Perched dramatically on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Tintagel Castle feels less like a ruin and more like a gateway into legend. Wind howls across the cliffs, Atlantic waves crash far below and the sea air carries stories that locals have been telling for centuries. Even before you reach the stone archway, there’s a sense you’re stepping into a place where history and myth have learned to live side by side.

Image – The awe inspiring cliff top structure of Tintagel Castle as it would have looked around 1000 years ago in Arthurian times

The walk out to the castle ruins is an adventure in itself. A narrow footbridge links the mainland to the island where the castle stood and as you cross you can see why storytellers fell in love with this spot. Jagged rocks plunge into turquoise water, seabirds wheel overhead, and the path twists upward to reveal panoramic views of the Cornish coast. It’s easy to imagine the Tintagel fortress rising here, banners snapping in the wind, watching over ships moving through the narrow channel below.

Tintagel is famously tied to the legend of King Arthur and the setting alone makes you think “If a legendary king were born anywhere, surely it would be here.” Medieval writers claimed Arthur was conceived at Tintagel through magic and intrigue and standing on these windswept heights, the story doesn’t feel far-fetched at all. The isolation of the cliffs, the dramatic natural defences and the sense of secrecy woven into the landscape all add to the mystique. 

Image – Magnificent Tintagel Castle as we find it today in this truly mystic and magical location of England

Experience the Actual Sunset Inner Circle Encounter at Stonehenge 

Recommended as Stonehenge Experts

Here at Best Value Tour we are proud of our Owner and Principal British Olympian Paul Harmsworth. Paul developed our exceptional and entirely free Stonehenge Customer Service, from his great personal passion of Stonehenge. From as a young child spending time playing at the stones and picnicking, visiting with his family as his grandparents lived close by in Amesbury. A passion much indulged with a 2 year spell working at Stonehenge, a time he remembers most fondly around 20 years ago and 18 years since, helping 1000’s of guests get the best Stonehenge experience possible.

When Paul first visited Stonehenge in the 1960’s, it was very different than today. Firstly, Wiltshire back then was very rural and very quite. As time went on and the road networks developed; Wiltshire’s wealth of ancient and more recent historic histories, all set in a region of outstanding natural beauty, became more accessible to visitors. Thus evolved to the iconic and mystical region visited by many each year, taking away lasting wonderful memories.

Stonehenge has somewhat of a varied history of fences, no fences, charging for entrance and not charging. Fortunately a period around 1963-1977 when Paul was young, Stonehenge was completely open, no fences, no staff or security. Was a popular destination for locals for summer weekend picnics of which Paul has warm memories (there is apparently a picture of him there in the 1960’s we are trying to locate).

History of fences/no fences at Stonehenge

Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, has a fascinating history not only in terms of its construction and purpose but also regarding how the public has accessed it over the centuries. In the early 1800s, the site was privately owned by the Antrobus family (famous local philanthropists, a name still known locally at the popular historic Antrobus Hotel still in Amesbury), and visitors could approach the stones freely, wandering among them across the Salisbury Plain without restrictions.

However, as visitor numbers grew and concerns about potential damage increased, the family introduced an entrance fee of one shilling in 1901. This was done to help fund the protection and maintenance of the monument and marked the first time that public access came with a cost.

In addition to charging an entrance fee, early efforts to protect Stonehenge included the introduction of fences, which were installed in the early 20th century. These fences were intended to prevent vandalism and manage the growing crowds of visitors while preserving the integrity of the stones.

When Sir Cecil Chubb purchased Stonehenge in 1918 and subsequently donated it to the nation, he stipulated that local residents should retain free access and that the general admission fee for other visitors would remain minimal. Over the decades, fences were adjusted and, at times, removed, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s when restoration work, including the re-erection of fallen trilithons, aimed to restore the monument and its surrounding landscape.

By 1977, fences fully enclosed the stone circle to safeguard it, limiting public access to controlled paths and special arrangements. Today, visitors can still enjoy close views of Stonehenge, but touching the stones is prohibited, and entry to the inner circle is reserved for solstice celebrations or exclusive tours. Modern management by English Heritage ensures a balance between preservation and tourism, allowing people from around the world to experience the monument safely while maintaining its enduring mystery and historical significance.

Here are some personal pics taken by Paul at his time at Stonehenge

Starting

Nearly there

Hooray Sunrise

Sunset at Stonehenge

sunset taken from the Stone Circle

Next a few of behind the scenes filming at Stonehenge

A snowy Stonehenge

Aricholigical surveying at Stonehenge

Druids celebrate at Solstice

The grass still needs cutting even at Stonehenge

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