The Battle of the Somme was a defining moment in World War I, etching its place in history with immense human sacrifice and bravery. This guided tour from Amiens offers a profound exploration of the battlefield, immersing visitors in the story of the conflict. From the Beaumont Hamel trenches to the Thiepval Memorial, each site provides a window into the past, inviting reflection on the enduring impact of this pivotal battle. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a meaningful connection to the past, this tour promises a deeply moving and educational experience.

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Key Points

This 7-hour tour from Amiens explores key sites of the Battle of the Somme, including the Beaumont Hamel trenches, Thiepval Memorial, and Lochnagar Crater.
The tour is led by English and French-speaking guides and includes private transportation and bottled water.
The Battle of the Somme was a major World War I offensive with over 1 million casualties, and the battlefield sites serve as reminders of the human cost.
The tour is not suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended.
The tour has received excellent customer reviews for its knowledgeable guides and immersive exploration of the historical significance of the Somme battlefield.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic Battle of the Somme battlefield from Amiens.

The 7-hour activity is priced at $633.16 per group of up to 4 participants. English and French-speaking guides lead the tour, which can be freely canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Participants can reserve now and pay later, allowing for flexible travel plans. The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and visits to key sites like the Beaumont Hamel trenches, Thiepval Memorial, and Lochnagar Crater.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users.

Looking for more options in Amiens? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Historical Context

The Battle of the Somme began on July 1, 1916, marking a significant event in the history of World War I. This offensive was a joint British and French operation aimed at breaking through the German lines.

The first day saw devastating losses for the British Empire, with approximately 20,000 deaths. The battle was a bloody stalemate, continuing for over four months and resulting in over 1 million casualties on both sides.

Today, the battlefield sites and memorials serve as somber reminders of the immense human cost of this pivotal campaign in the Great War.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a departure from the hotel in Amiens at 9:00 am, embarking on a journey to explore the key historical sites associated with the Battle of the Somme.

Visitors will visit the Beaumont Hamel trenches and visitor center, seeing the wartime experience.

The tour then moves to Thiepval Wood and the Irish monument, followed by the Thiepval memorial for the missing and its visitor center.

Participants will also visit Pozières, the Gibraltar bunker, and Windmill.

The tour continues to Delville Wood, the South African Memorial, and Caterpillar Valley with the New Zealand Memorial, concluding at the Lochnagar Crater.

A lunch break is included in the itinerary.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking French guide, private transportation, and bottled water in the vehicle.

It doesn’t cover personal expenses, souvenirs, food, drinks, or snacks. This ensures a focused and enriching experience, allowing participants to enjoy the historical sites without worrying about additional costs.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users, so it’s important to consider the physical requirements.

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Participant Information and Accessibility

Certain participant considerations are important to note for this Battle of the Somme tour.

Certain participant considerations are important to note for this Battle of the Somme tour.

It’s not suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users due to the historical sites and terrain. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking through trenches and around memorials.

Despite these limitations, the tour receives excellent customer reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and well-structured itinerary.

Participants can expect an immersive experience exploring the key sites of this pivotal World War I battle, while paying respects at the various memorials along the way.

There's plenty more to explore in Amiens

Getting to the Battlefield

How does one get to the Battle of the Somme battlefield from Amiens? The battlefield is located just north of the city, making it easily accessible.

Visitors have several options:

Take a private tour with a knowledgeable guide who’ll provide transportation and lead you through the key sites.
Rent a car and self-drive to the various memorials and viewpoints along the Somme.
Utilize public transportation, such as taking a train or bus to the nearby towns and walking between the historic landmarks.

Whichever method chosen, the Somme battlefield is within a short distance from Amiens, allowing travelers to enjoy the history of this pivotal World War I battle.

Exploring the Trenches and Memorials

What better way to truly understand the realities of the Battle of the Somme than by exploring the preserved trenches and solemn memorials dotting the battlefield? Visitors can walk through the Beaumont Hamel trenches, an eerie reminder of the horrors of trench warfare. At Thiepval, the towering memorial honors the over 72,000 British and South African soldiers with no known grave. Moving further, the Delville Wood memorial pays tribute to the South African forces, while the Caterpillar Valley memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the New Zealanders’ sacrifice. This journey through time offers a profound connection to the past.

| Site | Significance |

| — | — |

| Beaumont Hamel Trenches | Preserved trenches provide a visceral experience of trench warfare |

| Thiepval Memorial | Honors over 72,000 British and South African soldiers with no known grave |

| Delville Wood Memorial | Commemorates the South African forces who fought here |

| Caterpillar Valley Memorial | Pays tribute to the New Zealanders who lost their lives |

Paying Respects and Reflecting on History

As visitors walk the hallowed grounds of the Somme battlefield, they’re struck by a profound sense of reverence.

The towering Thiepval Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the missing, while the Lochnagar Crater serves as a somber reminder of the battle’s immense devastation.

Equally moving are the memorials that honor the bravery and sacrifice of the South African, New Zealand, and Irish troops.

Through these powerful symbols, the tour encourages reflection on the immense human cost of war and the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Thiepval Memorial
Lochnagar Crater
Memorials honoring international troops

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Camera to Take Photos During the Tour?

Absolutely! Participants are encouraged to bring cameras to capture the historical sites and memorials visited during the tour. The guide will provide ample opportunities for participants to take photos throughout the experience.

Is There a Washroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are washroom facilities available during the tour. The tour guide will provide information on the locations of restrooms at the various historical sites visited throughout the day, ensuring participants have access to necessary amenities.

What Is the Age Range of Most Participants on This Tour?

The tour typically attracts participants ranging from young adults to retirees, with the majority being middle-aged history enthusiasts. The tour is not suitable for children under 11 years old, but is open to a wide range of adult travelers.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Dinner in Amiens?

Yes, the knowledgeable tour guide can provide recommendations for dinner in Amiens after the tour. They’re familiar with the local restaurants and can suggest options that suit the participants’ preferences and dietary needs.

How Long Should I Allow for Exploring Each Site on the Itinerary?

The tour guide recommends allocating 1-1.5 hours for exploring each key site on the itinerary, allowing ample time to fully experience the historical significance and pay respects at the various memorials.

The Sum Up

The Battle of the Somme WWI Battlefield tour from Amiens offers a powerful and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic sites and pay tribute to the immense sacrifices made during this pivotal conflict. Through guided exploration and reflection, participants gain a profound understanding of the battle’s impact and the heroism of the soldiers who fought there.

You can check availability for your dates here: