The Battle of the Somme stands as one of the most devastating conflicts of World War I, with over a million casualties across both sides. This private group tour from Amiens offers an opportunity to explore the poignant battlefield sites, providing a profound understanding of the harrowing realities of trench warfare. From the Beaumont Hamel trenches to the Thiepval Memorial, you will uncover the sacrifices made during this pivotal moment in history, gaining a deeper appreciation for the courage and resilience of those who fought.
Key Points
- This 7-hour private group tour explores historic WWI battlefields from Amiens, including Beaumont Hamel, Thiepval Memorial, Pozières, Delville Wood, and Lochnagar Crater.
- The Battle of the Somme in 1916 was a pivotal moment in WWI, resulting in over 1 million casualties on both sides.
- The tour offers in-depth insights into the horrors of trench warfare, as exemplified by the Newfoundland Regiment’s 86% casualty rate at Beaumont Hamel.
- Visitors can explore the Lochnagar Crater, which marked the start of the Somme offensive and killed hundreds of German soldiers.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users, and comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.
Tour Overview
The Battle of the Somme WWI Battlefield tour from Amiens is a 7-hour private group experience that takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the historic battlefields.
Priced from $630.78 per group (up to 4 people), this English and French-language tour provides free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting the Beaumont Hamel trenches, Thiepval Memorial, Pozières, Delville Wood, and the Lochnagar Crater.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 11 or wheelchair users, and participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Amiens.
Battle of the Somme: Historical Context
Although the Battle of the Somme began on July 1, 1916, it marked a pivotal moment in World War I.
The British Empire suffered approximately 20,000 deaths on the first day, making it one of the deadliest days in British military history. The battle aimed to relieve pressure on the French at Verdun and push the German forces back.
Despite initial setbacks, the battle raged on for over four months, resulting in over 1 million casualties on both sides.
The Battle of the Somme demonstrated the horrific realities of trench warfare and foreshadowed the immense human toll of the war.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from their hotel in Amiens at 9:00 AM, the tour group first visits the Beaumont Hamel trenches and visitor center in Newfoundland Park.
Next, they stop at Thiepval Wood and the Irish monument. The tour then explores the Thiepval memorial for the missing and its visitor center.
After a lunch break, the group heads to the Pozières vicinity, where they see the Gibraltar bunker and Windmill.
They also visit Delville Wood and the South African Memorial in Longueval, as well as Caterpillar Valley and the New Zealand Memorial, before ending at the Lochnagar Crater.
The return to Amiens completes the 7-hour journey.
Beaumont Hamel Trenches and Newfoundland Park
After departing from Amiens, the tour group first visits the Beaumont Hamel trenches and visitor center in Newfoundland Park.
This preserved battlefield offers a vivid glimpse into the horrors of the Somme offensive. Visitors can explore the trench system and learn about the devastating impact on the Newfoundland Regiment, which suffered an 86% casualty rate on the first day.
The preserved battlefield offers a vivid glimpse into the Somme’s horrors, where the Newfoundland Regiment suffered catastrophic losses.
The visitor center provides historical context and interactive exhibits, allowing the group to better understand the battle’s significance.
This solemn yet powerful experience sets the tone for the rest of the poignant tour through the Somme’s haunting landscapes.
More Great Tours NearbyThiepval Memorial and Visitor Center
The tour next visits the Thiepval Memorial and its accompanying visitor center. The memorial honors more than 72,000 soldiers of the British and South African forces who died on the Somme and have no known grave.
Highlights include:
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Exploring the vast, imposing structure of the Thiepval Memorial which towers over the surrounding countryside.
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Learning about the harrowing battle that claimed so many lives through the informative exhibits at the visitor center.
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Reflecting on the sacrifice and courage of those who fought and died in the Battle of the Somme.
Australian Involvement in Pozières
The tour then proceeds to the Pozières vicinity, where the Australian forces played a significant role in the Battle of the Somme.
Visitors will explore the Gibraltar bunker, which was a heavily fortified German position. The nearby Windmill site marks where fierce fighting took place, with the Australians sustaining heavy casualties.
The guide will provide insights into the bravery and sacrifice of the Australian troops, who helped secure this strategic location despite the immense challenges they faced.
The bravery and sacrifice of the Australian troops, who secured this strategic location despite immense challenges.
This stop offers a poignant reminder of the immense human toll of the Great War.
Delville Wood and South African Memorial
From the Australian involvement in Pozières, the tour now moves on to explore Delville Wood and the South African Memorial.
Here, visitors will learn about:
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The pivotal role of the South African troops in the Battle of the Somme, who endured heavy casualties in the defense of Delville Wood.
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The South African Memorial, a poignant tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers.
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The opportunity to reflect on the immense human toll of the Great War and its lasting impact on affected communities.
The tour provides a somber yet enlightening glimpse into the horrors and heroism of the Battle of the Somme.
Lochnagar Crater
Lochnagar Crater stands as a haunting reminder of the devastation wrought during the Battle of the Somme. This massive, 98-foot-deep crater was created by a massive explosive charge detonated on July 1, 1916. The blast killed hundreds of German soldiers and marked the start of the campaign, though British forces ultimately failed to break through enemy lines.
| Crater Details | |
|—————-|—|
| Depth | 98 feet |
| Diameter | 300 feet |
| Creation | July 1, 1916 |
| Purpose | Disrupt German defenses |
| Aftermath | British unable to achieve breakthrough |
Visitors can explore the Lochnagar Crater today, a sobering testament to the horrors of the Great War.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to and From the Hotel Included in the Tour Price?
Yes, the tour price includes private transportation. The itinerary states that private transportation is provided, and it’s mentioned under the "Tour Inclusions" section.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Additional Sites?
The tour can be customized to visit additional sites, but this may incur extra costs. The private nature of the experience allows for some flexibility in the itinerary to accommodate special requests from participants.
What Is the Average Group Size for This Private Tour?
The private tour is designed for groups of up to 4 people. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility to accommodate the interests and needs of the participants.
Are Any Snacks or Meals Provided During the Tour?
This is a private tour, so no meals or snacks are provided. Bottled water is the only refreshment included. Participants should plan to bring their own food and snacks to enjoy during the scheduled lunch break.
Is There a Discount for Students or Senior Citizens?
The tour does not offer discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat fee of $630.78 per group of up to 4 people. No special pricing is mentioned in the tour details provided.
The Wrap Up
This private group tour from Amiens offers a profound exploration of the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest conflicts in World War I. Participants will visit poignant sites like Beaumont Hamel, Thiepval Memorial, and Lochnagar Crater, gaining insight into the harrowing realities of trench warfare and honoring the sacrifice of those who fought during this pivotal moment in history.
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