The First World War ended on the 11th of November 1918 at around 11 am, when the ceasefire came into effect. The total causalities of the war crossed 40 million, making it one of the deadliest battles ever. Read any number of books that you want and watch as many programs as you like, but the stories of the war are best enjoyed when you visit places that saw the blood and carnage.
The battlefield WW1 tours are offered by many operators in the UK, each taking you to different sites and places. Here are some of our favourite ones.
The Centenary Tour
This tour takes you through many primary actions of the year 1918 when victory was finally achieved by the allies, even though previously, the Germans had stronger ground. Among the places visited are the Le Quesnoy, Villers-Bretonneux and the St Quentin Canal. A large part of the tour is centred on Amiens which was regarded to be an important city during the war, especially in the last year.
Generally, the tour is around 4 days, but can vary with your selected package and operator.
Stories of Passchendaele
Two notable events took place in 1917: the Messines Battle which saw 19 mines being detonated and the Battle of Passchendaele. The tour takes you to several significant sites such as the Menin Gate and the Mons.
Somme
Usually lasting for five days, Somme is one of the most popular choices among the battlefield WW1 tours. Generally, the tour begins at Lille and then continues to Poperinge. Here the Talbot House and the Tyune Cot Cemetery are located. Do check out the Flanders Field Museum as well, which is nearby.
Door2Tour offers battlefield WW1 coaches round the year. Visit our website for more information.