SeaBritain 2005, the year-long commemoration of the sea marking the 200th anniversary of Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar, has created a rare opportunity for those who want to study and reside at Christ Church in the centre of Oxford.

Elderhostel, America's provider of educational programmes for adults, has joined forces with Oxford and the National Maritime Museum to offer the week-long residential programme around a conference, “War at Sea in the Age of Sail”, at Christ Church (September 1-9). Featuring speakers from Britain and the USA, participants will hear lectures by renowned figures including Colin White, Nelson specialist and director of Trafalgar 200.

There is a programme of social activities and events, including visits to Portsmouth, home of the Royal Navy, the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich and Royal Dockyard Chatham. Accommodation is in London - three nights at the Thistle Tower Hotel - and Oxford - five nights at Christ Church, with meals in the famous Great Hall. The cost is $2,522 per person based on two sharing. Website: www.elderhostel.org