Step Back in Time: Private Tour of Somme & Vimy Battlefields from Lille

Discover the Historic WWI Battlefields

Embark on a deeply historical journey from Lille to Vimy & Somme Battlefields. This private tour is designed to cover significant sites, including Vimy ridge, Canadian memorial and visitor centre, Beaumont Hamel, Lochnagar Crater and Peronne. You will be guided by an expert who can tailor the day to your interests, ensuring an informative and moving experience.

Expert English-Speaking Guide: WWI Specialist

Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking guide, expert of WWI, who will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the itinerary and program. Get ready to embark on a journey that delves deep into history. Board our premium air-conditioned vehicle, specially designed for your comfort during the trip.

Arrive at Vimy Ridge

Vimy Ridge is a significant site in Canadian military history, located in northern France. The Battle of Vimy Ridge, which took place from April 9 to 12, 1917, is considered a defining moment for Canada. This battle was part of the larger British-led offensive known as the Battle of Arras during World War I. The Canadian Corps was tasked with capturing Vimy Ridge from the German Sixth Army. It was the first time all four divisions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force fought together. The battle is notable for the extensive preparation that went into it, including innovative tactics such as a creeping barrage, meticulous planning, and the use of detailed scale models of the battlefield for training. The Canadian forces succeeded in capturing the ridge, a feat that had eluded British and French forces previously. The victory at Vimy was achieved at a heavy cost, with over 10,000 Canadian casualties, including nearly 3,600 killed.

Then, visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, located at the highest point of Vimy Ridge, serves as a tribute to all Canadians who served during World War I, particularly those who lost their lives. The monument is inscribed with the names of 11,285 Canadian soldiers who were listed as missing or presumed dead in France. The site also includes preserved trenches, craters from the battle, and a visitor centre that provides information about the battle, the significance of Vimy Ridge in Canadian 

Lunch Break (at own expense)

Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant in the surroundings of Arras.

Visit the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Experience Centre

After lunch, your private guide will take you to Commonwealth War Graves Commission Experience Centre where you will enjoy interactive exhibitions detailing the history and significance of the sites where Commonwealth forces are commemorated. 

Beaumont-Hamel

Then, reach Beaumont-Hamel where took place one of the largest battles of World War I between July 1 and November 18, 1916. The first day of the battle is infamous for being one of the bloodiest days in the history of the British Army. The Newfoundland Regiment participated in an assault near the village of Beaumont-Hamel. The regiment suffered devastating losses, with the majority of the soldiers either killed or wounded within the first half-hour of the attack. Today, the site is preserved as a memorial park dedicated to the memory of all Newfoundlanders who fought and died during World War I. The park encompasses preserved trenches, memorials, and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, which includes the iconic caribou statue overlooking the battlefield.

Lochnagar Crater

Lochnagar Crater is one of the most poignant memorials of the First World War on the Western Front. The crater was created at the outset of the Battle of the Somme on July 1, 1916. It was the result of a massive explosion when British forces detonated a mine containing 60,000 pounds (around 27 tons) of explosives beneath the German defensive positions. The explosion created a crater that is 30 meters deep and 100 meters across, making it one of the largest man-made craters still visible from World War I. The aim was to destroy German fortifications and break through their lines. Although the explosion successfully created the crater, the overall offensive resulted in significant casualties without achieving its strategic objectives.

Péronne

Conclude the day by the visit of Péronne that was, during the WWI, one of the key locations on the Western Front, witnessing several major battles, including the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The town and its surroundings suffered extensive damage due to the war's prolonged and heavy fighting. Péronne was occupied by German forces for a significant part of the war. It was liberated by the Allies towards the end of the conflict, but the occupation left a lasting impact on the town and its inhabitants.  

Return to Lille

After the visit of Péronne, we commence our journey back to Lille, marking the end of our services. Cherish the memories and newfound knowledge acquired during this poignant and educational tour.