Etaples Military Cemetery
The largest Commonwealth war cemetery in France, a vast and solemn memorial to over 11,000 fallen soldiers from WWI and WWII.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers in bloom, peaceful atmosphere
Etaples Military Cemetery
Best Time
Flowers in bloom, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The largest Commonwealth war cemetery in France, a vast and solemn memorial to over 11,000 fallen soldiers from WWI and WWII.
"Wonderfully maintained and very beautiful cemetery, a definite must visit if in the area."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Parking is available on both sides of the road, making access easy for cars and buses. :car:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The cemetery is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with pedestrian crossings for safety. :wheelchair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Entrance
Main Entrance
A breathtakingly large entrance that sets a solemn and impressive tone for the entire cemetery.
Sea of Headstones
Main Cemetery Grounds
Thousands of uniform white headstones stretching across the landscape, a powerful visual of remembrance.
Cross of Sacrifice
Central Area
A prominent monument symbolizing the sacrifice of all who died in the Great War.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit Essential
Understanding the Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Parking is available on both sides of the road, making access easy for cars and buses. :car:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The cemetery is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with pedestrian crossings for safety. :wheelchair:
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
With over 11,000 burials, give yourself time to wander and reflect. :stopwatch:
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a place of remembrance; quiet and respectful attire is appreciated. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Parking is available on both sides of the road, making access easy for cars and buses. :car:
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The cemetery is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with pedestrian crossings for safety. :wheelchair:
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
With over 11,000 burials, give yourself time to wander and reflect. :stopwatch:
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a place of remembrance; quiet and respectful attire is appreciated. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Etaples Military Cemetery as beautifully maintained, peaceful, and deeply moving. The sheer scale of the cemetery and the immaculate presentation of the thousands of graves leave a lasting impression. While the proximity to a busy road is noted, the tranquility within the grounds and the accessibility are appreciated. It's widely considered a must-visit for anyone in the area seeking to pay respects and reflect on history.
"Wonderfully maintained and very beautiful cemetery. I always find it amazing how military cemeteries are normally located just off main roads but how peaceful and quiet they are. Parking on both sides of the road with pedestrian crossing. Wheelchair access. A definite must visit if in the area to make sure these people and their lives are never forgotten."
Tom Davies
"Wow surprised at the size of it we looked to see if any of our relatives were here but not in the books ,we spent some time looking around and seeing how it was so clean and tidy it was ,you have and are doing a Fantastic job thank you"
Stanley Scholes
"Beautifully maintained. I was moved to see German soldiers' headstones amongst those of the British and Allies. Over 11400 people commemorated here."
Greenockian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Etaples Military Cemetery is located on the road north from Etaples towards Boulogne-sur-Mer on France's northwest coast. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on both sides of the road. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to visit.
Yes, there are designated parking areas on both sides of the busy road leading to the cemetery, which accommodates cars and larger vehicles like buses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Etaples Military Cemetery is free. It is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as a place of remembrance.
The cemetery is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to experience its atmosphere at different times of the day. It's advisable to check for any specific seasonal variations if planning a visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Etaples Military Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in France, commemorating over 11,000 soldiers, sailors, and airmen who died in WWI and WWII, many from nearby military hospitals. 
While the cemetery has over 11,000 burials, finding specific relatives might require prior research. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission website can be a resource for grave locations.
Yes, the cemetery is designed to be accessible, with pedestrian crossings and generally well-maintained paths suitable for wheelchairs.
Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, as this is a solemn place of remembrance. Quiet demeanor is also appreciated.
Basic facilities like information boards are available. Restrooms might be limited, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Etaples Military Cemetery, but visitors are reminded to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and focus on capturing the atmosphere of remembrance.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful, atmospheric light, especially with mist. The symmetry of the headstones is particularly striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the Cross of Sacrifice or the Stone of Remembrance as key points of interest. The well-maintained grounds and accessible paths make it manageable for families. Bringing a small notebook for children to sketch or write down their thoughts can also be a good way to engage them.
🤔 History Enthusiasts
+1 The design by Sir Edwin Lutyens adds an architectural layer to the historical significance, showcasing his approach to memorialization. Exploring the cemetery allows for a deeper understanding of the scale of loss and the meticulous efforts made by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to ensure every fallen soldier is remembered. The presence of graves from both World Wars and even some German soldiers offers a complex narrative of conflict and its aftermath.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Place of Immense Sacrifice
+1The cemetery was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, a renowned architect of war memorials, and its design emphasizes order, symmetry, and a profound sense of peace. The uniform white headstones, each bearing the name and details of the fallen, create a powerful visual impact, inviting quiet contemplation. It's a place where the scale of loss is palpable, yet the care taken in its upkeep offers a sense of enduring respect.
Beyond the Commonwealth graves, you may also find headstones of German soldiers, a detail that many visitors find particularly moving, highlighting the shared tragedy of war. This aspect underscores the cemetery's role not just as a memorial to Allied forces, but as a universal symbol of remembrance for all who perished.
Navigating the Grounds and Experience
While the grounds are generally well-maintained and accessible, it's worth noting that some paths might be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Allow yourself ample time to wander through the different sections, read the inscriptions, and absorb the atmosphere. It's a place for quiet reflection, and many visitors feel a strong connection to the past and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made.
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