3&4 day Tours
WWI - Somme and Ypres Battlefield Tour
Delve into a journey through time and explore the profound history of these battlefields, where the past comes alive.
Are you intrigued by the historical significance of the Somme and Ypres? One pivotal question that arises is, "What were the reasons behind the Somme battle?" This immersive experience takes you back to the nearly five-month Battle of the Somme, which transpired from July 1 to November 18, 1916.
The battle marked a significant milestone in military history as it saw the debut of the tank on the battlefield. However, these early tanks were unreliable, with many breaking down before reaching the front lines, and their limited numbers failed to make a decisive impact on the fighting.
The main goal of the Somme offensive was to relieve pressure on the French forces at Verdun and to divert German resources. While the offensive was successful in this tactical goal, it ultimately resulted in minimal territorial gain for the Allies, who advanced only a few miles into German territory by the battle's end.
Over a Million Casualties. The prolonged nature of the battle, which lasted for five months, led to immense suffering and loss. Over three million soldiers from the British, French, and German armies fought in the conflict, with more than one million men killed or wounded in total, solidifying the Somme's legacy as one of World War I's most catastrophic confrontations
The Battle of Ypres refers to battles fought around the town of Ypres in Belgium during World War 1. There were five battles associated with Ypres, but the first three are the most historically significant and commonly referred to when discussing "The Battle of Ypres."
Important information: your drop-off and collection locations we be added when you book and confirm again 2 weeks before the tour starts.. All travel and Accommodation is included in the price. 4-day tour is on request.
Day 1
Embark on an immersive Somme and Ypres tour
Commencing from Ashford Euro station...
The Battle of Somme, etched in history, unfolded on July 1, 1916, marking the darkest day for the British Army with a staggering loss of 60,000 lives within a single day. As we travel across the expansive 25-mile battlefront, we delve into events that transpired over a century ago.
Our itinerary encompasses significant sites:
Albert 1916 Museum
Fricourt German Military Cemetery
Lochnagar Crater
Pozieres
Thiepval
Ulster Tower
Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial Park
Hawthorn Ridge
Serre Road Military Cemeteries
Day 2
Embark on the Ypres Salient experience
Day 2 of the Somme and Ypres battlefield tours commences at the Cloth Hall in Ypres.
Ypres Salient played a pivotal role during the 1914-1918 period, witnessing three major battles.
Over the next two days, we explore numerous historical landmarks, from the site of the first gas attack to the trenches where the Christmas Truce occurred in 1914.
Among the highlights:
Sanctuary Wood Museum
Hill 62
Hooge Crater and Museum
Poperinge
Brandnoak British Military Cemetery
Yorkshire Trench
Langemark German Military Cemetery
Tyne Cot Military Cemetery
Menin Gate, where The Last Post is played at 20:00 hrs
Day 3
Your battlefield tour brings you to the Flanders Fields Museum
An essential starting point.....
Situated in the rebuilt Cloth Hall of Ypres, it narrates the tale of World War I in the West Flanders region. The hall, symbolizing wartime hardships and recovery, was reconstructed after its destruction during the war.
Additional sites on the itinerary:
Flanders Fields Museum
Saint-Martins Cathedral
St. George’s Church
Hill 60
Island of Ireland
Messine Ridge
Plug Street
For more information on the Somme and Ypres - Wikipedia provides comprehensive resources.
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Embark on a captivating journey as we explore the enchanting landscapes...
Immerse yourself in the stories shared by our experienced guides, who will transform your trip into an unforgettable saga of discovery.
We would love to hear from you regarding your tour requirements. If you cannot find the perfect tour on our site we can create a custom itinerary for you.
