Battle of the Somme WWI Battlefield from Amiens

Key Points

• Private 7-hour tour from Amiens for up to 4 people costs $679.
• Includes visits to original trenches, memorials, cemeteries, and interpretive centers.
• Guided by an experienced English-speaking French guide with in-depth knowledge.
• Stops at key sites such as Beaumont Hamel, Thiepval Memorial, Pozières, and Lochnagar Crater.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for adults and older children over 11 years, not wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Battle of the Somme with a Private 7-Hour Tour from Amiens

This $679 private tour offers a comprehensive journey through the key locations of the Battle of the Somme, one of WWI’s most significant and tragic battles. Departing from Amiens at 09:00am, the tour is led by an English-speaking French guide, ensuring you’ll gain detailed insights into the battle’s history and the different nations involved. The tour lasts 7 hours, making it an in-depth experience without feeling rushed.

Designed for small groups of up to 4 people, this experience provides a personalized perspective, with private transportation and bottles of water included. The experience is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in WWI, with a focus on the iconic sites and memorials that mark the battlefield.

Visiting Original Trenches and the Beaumont Hamel Visitor Center

The tour begins with a visit to the original trenches at Beaumont Hamel, a site that witnessed fierce fighting and heavy casualties during the battle. The visitor center here offers exhibits that help explain the battlefield conditions and the significance of the Newfoundland regiment’s involvement.

We like how the guide explains the differences between the French, British, and German trenches and describes the tactics used. This helps visitors understand the strategic importance of these defensive lines and the harsh realities faced by soldiers.

Paying Respects at Memorials and Cemeteries

A key component of the tour is visiting the memorials and cemeteries that honor the fallen soldiers. Stops include the Thiepval Memorial for the missing soldiers from various nations, along with cemeteries that host the graves of soldiers from different Commonwealth countries.

The Irish monument and the Gibraltar bunker near Pozières are also part of the itinerary, highlighting the diverse international effort during WWI. These sites offer poignant moments to reflect on the scale of loss and the international cooperation involved.

Walking on the Battlefield and Exploring Key Sites

The guide leads the group on walks across the battlefield, stopping at notable locations like the Pozières vicinity, where the Windmill and Gibraltar bunker reveal how different nations fought for control of strategic positions.

The Longueval area hosts the Delville Wood and the South African Memorial, offering insight into Africa’s contribution to the battle. At Caterpillar Valley, the New Zealand Memorial stands as a reminder of New Zealand’s role.

The Lochnagar Crater is another highlight, visible as a large impact site created by a mining operation during the battle. This site vividly demonstrates the intense mining and tunneling efforts that characterized WWI warfare.

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Lunch Break and Flexible Itinerary

A lunch stop allows time for rest and reflection before continuing the tour. The itinerary includes stops at key locations associated with Australian and other Commonwealth forces, such as the Pozières vicinity and Longueval.

The schedule may be adjusted between December and February due to possible closures for maintenance, so flexibility is built into the tour planning.

Expert Guides and Personalised Experience

Guided by Frederick and other knowledgeable guides, the tour features in-depth explanations, answering questions thoroughly to clarify complex battle tactics and history. The guides’ ability to share the stories behind the sites brings a human element to the battlefield, making history come alive.

The reviews highlight the guides’ natural storytelling style and great knowledge, with one reviewer emphasizing that the guide did not rush and facilitated meaningful exploration.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from your hotel in Amiens at 09:00am, with private transportation making for a comfortable journey through the battlefield sites. Bottles of water are provided, and the tour is conducted in English and French.

This experience is not suitable for children under 11 years or wheelchair users, due to walking and site accessibility considerations.

Cost, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

At $679 per group of up to 4 people, the tour offers a focused, private experience with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. The reserve now, pay later option allows flexible booking, making it easier to plan your visit without immediate payment.

How This Tour Compares to Similar WWI Battlefield Experiences

This tour stands out for its personalized approach, with guides taking time to answer questions and explain the significance of each site. It covers many key locations, including original trenches, memorials, and battlefield sites, providing a broad yet in-depth perspective.

Similar experiences include day trips from Paris or other locations, but this Amiens-based tour offers a more intimate, detailed exploration tailored to small groups.

The Sum Up: A Respectful and Informative Journey through WWI History

This 7-hour private tour from Amiens offers a thorough look at the Battle of the Somme, emphasizing original trenches, national memorials, and battlefield sites. The inclusion of expert guides ensures that the history is conveyed clearly and engagingly, with plenty of time for questions and reflection.

While the cost and physical demands are considerations, the personalized experience and comprehensive itinerary make this a compelling choice for those passionate about WWI history. It’s especially suitable for history buffs, families with older children, and anyone eager to understand the scale and human stories behind this pivotal battle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 7 hours from departure in Amiens.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and bottles of water during the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
No, food, drinks, and snacks are not included, but there is a lunch stop scheduled.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 11 years or wheelchair users.

What sites will we visit?
Sites include Beaumont Hamel trenches, Thiepval Memorial, Pozières, Delville Wood, Longueval, Caterpillar Valley, and Lochnagar Crater.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak English and French.

Does the tour operate year-round?
Yes, but between December and February, some stops may be closed for maintenance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor conditions.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour for small groups of up to 4 people.

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