Immerse yourself in the rich history and poignant tales of World War I as you explore the iconic battlefields of the Western Front. Join us on this unforgettable journey as we walk in the footsteps and honour the heroes of the World War.
Day 1 FRIDAY We take the Channel crossing to Calais and continue to Arras, arriving in time for our included dinner.
Day 2 SATURDAY With our local guide we travel to Flanders and the battlefields of the Ypres Salient and Passchendaele. We visit the Passchendaele Memorial Museum and the vast Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Allied Cemetery in Belgium. We then travel to Ypres, ravaged by the Great War, yet beautifully restored. After free time around the ornate Cloth Hall, we can obtain dinner in one of the local restaurants before taking in the poignant Last Post Ceremony at the town’s Menin Gate, performed every evening by the local fire brigade to honour those who fought for their freedom.
Day 3 SUNDAY After a leisurely start we visit the fascinating La Carrière Wellington, where in a feat of incredible engineering, soldiers tunnelled to the front line. After some free time to explore Arras, we visit the Canadian National Memorial at Vimy Ridge - dominated by the statue of Mother Canada, which honours soldiers who lost their lives in WWI at the Battle of Vimy Ridge
Day 4 MONDAY Meeting our local Blue Badge Guide we discover the emotive Somme Battlefields, including the Newfoundland Memorial Park at Beaumont Hamel and the Thiepval Memorial, a truly magnificent British monument containing the names of over 72,000 names who died on the Somme and who have no known grave. We continue to the Lochnagar crater at La Boisselle, and Delville Wood to view the magnificent South African National Memorial.
Day 5 TUESDAY Departing after breakfast we are homeward bound.
The Mercure Arras Centre Gare is positioned opposite Arras Train Station and within walking distance of the historic centre. A buffet breakfast is served daily, and a bar and restaurant are also available. Bedrooms have TV, Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea/coffee-making facilities. Lift access is available to all floors.
