Ypres
If ever there was a corner of a foreign field that is forever England, that corner must be Ypres in Belgium.
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. 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.
On a private tour to Ypres with Sophie’s Great War Tours we build an itinerary that reflects exactly what you want to see and explore.
Why not start at Hooge and hear about where the war was nearly lost in 1914. Take in the Canadian Memorial at Vancouver Corner and discuss the use of gas in the First World War. Visit Essex Farm Dressing Station and cemetery, close to where 'In Flanders Fields' was written and see the grave of Valentine Strudwick, just 15 years old when he was killed.
Visit the German cemetery at Langemark and see the difference in styles of remembrance. See the Pool of Peace, a huge mine crater that was part of the explosions for the Battle of Messines. No visit to Ypres is complete without time spent at Tyne Cot, the largest Commonwealth War Graves site in the world.
Whichever sites you choose to spend time by day, in the evening you can relax with a drink and lovely meal in the heart of a buzzing square.
“It’s impossible not to love Ypres. It’s a beautiful place and is packed full of excellent restaurants. Once visited you’ll want to come back again and again... ”