Ypres

We make our way through the pretty French and Belgian countryside to Ypres which has a rich and varied past. The impressive, medieval cloth hall dates from 1304 when it was one of one of the main cloth centres. The backstreets are lined by Flemish shops and cafés to provide us with a taste of Belgium.

The battles of the first world war were fought within 60 miles of our Kent coast. The roar of the battle of the Somme was heard in the hills where our Oak Hall Manor stands. We have a valuable day visiting important locations.   

The cloth hall at Ypres contains a large and very moving, modern, living exhibition depicting the senselessness of war. The huge cemetery at Tyne Cot bears epic witness to the huge loss of life. 

At Passendale we go into the underground trenches and bunkers with the dressing station, sleeping places and workshops.

Surrounded by hop fields, Poperinge is a charming town where soldiers came to rest from the trenches. We will also enjoy a break in the cafés during this very moving day.

If you would like to stay at Otford Manor before and after travelling to Ypres, we offer a special weekend for you. Please click here for the dates and prices of a weekend at Otford Manor that also include this Ypres day trip.

For day trips, please continue to the details below.