Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial - Image 1
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Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial

4.8
·2k reviews·Auchonvillers, France

A preserved WWI battlefield and solemn memorial honoring Newfoundland's sacrifice on the Somme. Explore trenches and reflect on history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Solemn atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial - Image 1

Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial

Best Time

Early mornings

Solemn atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A preserved WWI battlefield and solemn memorial honoring Newfoundland's sacrifice on the Somme. Explore trenches and reflect on history.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A very moving place with an incredible history of loss. Scarred earth is still visible where the trenches were dug."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Trenches

Explore the preserved trenches to grasp the scale of the battlefield and the soldiers' conditions.

🏛️ Visit the Visitor Centre

Gain essential historical context and understand the significance of the memorial.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Danger Tree

The Danger Tree

Central battlefield

A stark reminder of intense enemy fire and heavy casualties, this tree marks a pivotal point in the battle.

Reddit
Sunken Lane

Sunken Lane

Battlefield trenches

Experience the eerie atmosphere of the trenches where soldiers prepared for their fateful attack.

TikTok
Newfoundland Memorial

Newfoundland Memorial

Main memorial site

A powerful monument honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the 1st Newfoundland Regiment.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during off-peak hours to truly absorb the solemn atmosphere. Consider visiting on Memorial Day (July 1st) for a poignant experience, though expect crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more contemplative visit. TikTok

Respectful Exploration

This is a sacred memorial site. Walk with reverence, especially near the trenches and the Danger Tree. The visitor centre provides crucial context for understanding the sacrifices made here. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Solemn atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
July 1st (Memorial Day)
Why
Poignant ceremonies
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The 1st Lancashire Fusiliers at Sunken Lane 20 minutes before their attack on Beaumont-Hamel at the Battle of the Somme (1st July 1916) #thegreatwar #lestweforget #rememberence #ww1 #worldwar1 #worldwar1history #theyshallnotgrowold #history
@l4yer_man
5.7K likes • 124.5K views

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Trenches

Explore the preserved trenches to grasp the scale of the battlefield and the soldiers' conditions. Reddit

🏛️ Visit the Visitor Centre

Gain essential historical context and understand the significance of the memorial. Reddit

On July 1, Newfoundland and Labrador mark Memorial Day until noon. Today we brought a Newfoundland Soldier home & now his war is over. We honour the soldiers of the 1st Newfoundland Regiment who gave their lives in 1916 at Beaumont Hamel. After noon we celebrate Canada Day🇨🇦 May their sacrifice and bravery never be forgotten. 🍁 #CanadaDay #WeRememberThem
@helencescott
2.2K likes • 49K views
Rehearsal for the 1st July ceremony at the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial Park…
sacredgroundtours
30 likes • 379 views

🗓️ Check Memorial Day

July 1st is Newfoundland Memorial Day; a deeply moving experience. TikTok

🌫️ Eerie Winter Visits

Consider a winter visit for a uniquely silent and atmospheric experience. Reddit

Vous rêvez de devenir guide comme Ella au Mémorial terre-neuvien à Beaumont-Hamel ? Prêt à relever le défi ? Postulez dès aujourd’hui ! Le lien est dans la bio. Dream of becoming a guide like Ella at the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial? 🇨🇦 Ready to embrace the challenge? Apply today! Link in bio. . . . . #studentguide #guideetudiant #applynow #postulezmaintenant #beaumonthamel @canadarememb...
memorialcameracanada
0 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♂️ Walk the Trenches

Explore the preserved trenches to grasp the scale of the battlefield and the soldiers' conditions. Reddit

🏛️ Visit the Visitor Centre

Gain essential historical context and understand the significance of the memorial. Reddit

🗓️ Check Memorial Day

July 1st is Newfoundland Memorial Day; a deeply moving experience. TikTok

🌫️ Eerie Winter Visits

Consider a winter visit for a uniquely silent and atmospheric experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial for its immaculate preservation and deeply moving atmosphere. The staff and volunteers are often highlighted for their helpfulness and dedication. While the site is somber, its historical significance and the respect shown to the fallen are universally appreciated. Reddit

"Thank you to the Canadian Government for ensuring this monument to those who gave their all stays open and allows us to be reminded of the horrors of war.

Kept amazingly, the grounds are pristine where they need to be, and the trenches are kept in a manner that allows us to see their original layout, and understand how small no man's land really was - just a couple of hundred metres.

The staff are fantastic and the visitor centre gives further insight.

Thank you to those from Newfoundland that remain here to this day."

Andrew Hornsey

"The battle site and museum are excellently kept and very evocative, sad and interesting. The young people who are volunteers there are a cheerful credit to their nation, even if they can't distinguish an Australian accent from an English one😆"

Mark Godson

"A very moving place with an incredible history of loss. Scarred earth is still visible where the trenches were dug and collapsed. A beautiful memorial to men who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their countries."

Mario de Freitas

What People Like

Immaculately preserved site
Moving historical atmosphere
Informative visitor centre

What People Dislike

Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Beaumont-Hamel is located in the Somme region of France. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car is often the most convenient way to reach the memorial from major cities like Paris or Lille. TikTok

Yes, the memorial is well-signposted in the area. Follow signs for Beaumont-Hamel and the Newfoundland Memorial. GPS coordinates can also be helpful for navigation. TikTok

It's possible to visit Beaumont-Hamel as a day trip, especially if you are staying in nearby towns or cities. However, to fully appreciate the site and its history, an overnight stay is recommended. Reddit

The nearest major airports are Lille Airport (LIL) and Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris. From these airports, you would typically rent a car or arrange for private transport to reach the memorial. TikTok

While there isn't always a formal guided tour service, the visitor centre staff can provide information and context. Many visitors find it beneficial to explore independently with a map and the information from the visitor center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial is generally free to enter, as it is maintained by the Canadian government as a national historic site. Reddit

The memorial grounds are typically open year-round during daylight hours. The visitor centre has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check their official website before your visit. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required as there is no admission fee for the memorial grounds. However, if you are part of a large group, it's good practice to inform the site administrators. Reddit

Visitors are asked to be respectful of the site. Stick to marked paths, do not disturb any artifacts, and maintain a solemn demeanor. Dogs on leashes are usually permitted. Reddit

A visit includes access to the preserved battlefield, trenches, the Danger Tree, the Newfoundland Memorial, and the visitor centre which offers exhibits and historical information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the remarkably preserved trenches, see the iconic Danger Tree, the main Newfoundland Memorial, and walk across the former No Man's Land. The visitor centre provides extensive historical context. Reddit

To truly appreciate the site and its history, allocate at least 2-3 hours. This allows time to explore the grounds, visit the visitor centre, and reflect on the experience. Reddit

The visitor centre is generally accessible. However, exploring the battlefield and trenches may present challenges due to uneven terrain and the nature of the preserved historical site. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be walking on uneven ground. Dress in layers as the weather can change. Consider waterproofs, especially if visiting outside of summer. Reddit

Restroom facilities are available at the visitor centre. There isn't a cafe on-site, so it's advisable to bring your own refreshments or plan to eat in a nearby town. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Newfoundland Memorial itself, the stark landscape of the trenches, and the Danger Tree offer powerful photographic opportunities. The visitor centre also has informative displays. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally allowed at Beaumont-Hamel. However, always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography, especially during any memorial ceremonies. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and evocative images, especially when combined with mist or fog, which can enhance the atmosphere. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at war memorials and historical sites to maintain respect and prevent disturbance. It's best to check with site authorities or consult local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive battlefield and trenches. A telephoto lens can be good for details on the memorial. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Beaumont-Hamel with children can be a powerful educational experience. The preserved trenches and the visitor centre offer a tangible way to teach about the realities of World War I. Focus on the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers, rather than the graphic details of combat. TikTok

Encourage children to explore the trenches respectfully and to reflect on the stories shared in the visitor centre. The open grounds also provide space for children to move around, but always supervise them closely, especially near historical features. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas, making it a more relaxed outing. Reddit

🌍 History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, Beaumont-Hamel is an essential pilgrimage. The site offers an unparalleled glimpse into the trench warfare of WWI, with remarkably preserved trenches and the iconic Danger Tree. The visitor centre provides in-depth historical context, detailing the specific events of July 1, 1916, and the role of the Newfoundland Regiment. TikTok

Take your time to walk the battlefield, imagining the scenes of a century ago. The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who fought. Consider researching the 1st Newfoundland Regiment beforehand to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the site's significance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Beaumont-Hamel

Beaumont-Hamel is a pivotal site in the history of the First World War, particularly for Newfoundland. On July 1, 1916, the 1st Newfoundland Regiment launched an attack as part of the Battle of the Somme. The assault was a devastating failure, resulting in catastrophic casualties for the regiment – over 700 men were killed, wounded, or missing in a single day. This event is commemorated annually on July 1st as Newfoundland Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for the immense sacrifice made by its soldiers. TikTok

The battlefield itself has been remarkably preserved, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can walk through the actual trenches, see the shell-pocked landscape, and stand at the infamous 'Danger Tree,' a spot that became a focal point of intense enemy fire and a symbol of the heavy losses. The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the courage and resilience of these soldiers who fought so far from home. Reddit

Exploring Beaumont-Hamel is not just about seeing a historical site; it's about understanding the human cost of war. The preserved trenches, the starkness of the landscape, and the poignant memorial create a deeply moving experience that resonates with visitors, reminding them of the sacrifices made by a generation. TikTok

Exploring the Battlefield

The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial offers a unique opportunity to walk through a preserved section of the Somme battlefield. The site includes the original trenches, some of which have been carefully maintained to show their layout and depth. Walking through these trenches provides a visceral understanding of the conditions soldiers endured. Reddit

A key feature is the Danger Tree, a solitary tree that stands on the battlefield. This tree marked an area of intense fighting and was a site of significant casualties for the Newfoundland Regiment. Its presence serves as a stark and powerful reminder of the ferocity of the battle. Visitors can also see the Sunken Lane, another significant trench system that played a role in the offensive. TikTok

Beyond the trenches, the Newfoundland Memorial itself is a prominent monument designed by sculptor Basil Gotto. It depicts a caribou, the emblem of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, symbolizing their strength and sacrifice. The grounds are meticulously kept, allowing visitors to reflect in a peaceful yet profoundly historical setting. TikTok

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