If ever there was a corner of a foreign field that is forever England, that corner must surely be Ypres in Belgium.
It was across this relatively small area of land that four major battles raged during the First World War.
Journeying to Ypres to understand more about the First World War and to pay respects to soldiers who gave their lives for their country is a modern-day act of pilgrimage.
Why Visit Ypres?
The First World War was indeed a global conflict, but many of the most notorious battles happened right here. There is so much still to be seen, and exploring this land helps to connect you with the First World War and the stories of those men that fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
How do I get to Ypres?
If you are travelling by car from the UK, jump onto either the ferry at Dover or the Eurotunnel at Folkestone. Once you arrive in France, you are just over an hour’s drive from Ypres with most of the journey being in being on uncongested motorway. If you are already in continental Europe, Ypres has a train station that is well connected to many major European cities. All tours that Sophie arranges include transportation, so getting to the battlefields and around them is no hassle at all.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Ypres?
You can spend a lifetime exploring the battlefields of Ypres, enjoying the surrounding countryside and taking in the beauty of the town but realistically 2-3 days is needed to soak up the atmosphere of this place. Once visited, it is never forgotten.
Where to Stay in Ypres?
There are some lovely accommodation options in Ypres, from themed B&Bs to boutique hotels, family run establishments and well-known international hotel groups. Sophie’s Great War Tours predominantly stay at either The Albion or Hotel Ariane.
Ypres Weather
One of the questions I get asked is what will the weather be like? The answer is very changeable! There is a reason why Ypres is Latin for flooded land! I advise all my guests to pack a raincoat and something warm to combat the wind through autumn, winter and early spring. Of course, in summer time there will be some lovely days of sunshine and the evenings sipping on Belgian beer and enjoying a gorgeous dinner in the centre of Ypres is a truly wonderful way to spend time.
Why Can I See & Experience?
There is so much to explore and enjoy but here are some highlights:
Walk through original trenches as we discuss the day to day life of a First World War soldier
Tyne Cot, the world’s largest Commonwealth War Graves site with more than 12,000 headstones – each with a unique story to tell. Feel the peacefulness in these places and marvel at the beauty of the horticultural work.
Langemark German Cemetery – an opportunity to understand the war from a different perspective
Hear about the release of gas in 1915 at the beautiful memorial known as Vancouver Corner
Take a leisurely stroll along the Ypres ramparts which in many parts run along the canal
See the remains of the Messines mines craters
Attend the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate
Can I take a break from the war?
There are a number of other activities to enjoy in Ypres, so if the prospect of too much time in some really emotionally moving places feels overwhelming, there are other activities to take part in. For kids there is a great theme park and for big kids there is a vineyard and several breweries to take advantage of. The centre of Ypres has a number of boutique shops to browse including the famous chocolatiers and there are lots of fantastic restaurants to enjoy.
How to Pronounce Ypres?
You will here Ypres pronounced differently by different Brits. I say it like this: eeep (like Beep without the B)
If you’d love to explore this beautiful town and the sacred battlefields that surround it, please do contact Sophie and the team today.