Six tours that bring tales of the battlefield to life

Whether from the Napoleonic era or the twentieth century’s great wars, battlefield tours put history in perspective

Vive la France

Battle france

Keen republicans will delight at guide Hugh Macdonald-Buchanan’s deep dive into the story of the French Revolution. The tour explores this historical turning point for France – and also much of Europe – as it provoked a World War that lasted 23 years. After the tale of the battlefield, travellers can rest their heads at the four-star deluxe Hotel Westminster.
kirkerholidays.com

It’s all the Raid

Battle raid

History buffs can learn all about some of the daring raids and missions – some successful, others a failure – of World War II. Guided tours bring to life Operation Jubilee, Operation Chariot and the Battle for Caan, among other key events in the Allied fight. Staying in three different locations, there are departures on dates in May, June, September and October. justgoholidays.com

All Quiet on the Western Front

Battle westernfront

Focusing on the key sites of World War I in Belgium and France, the All Quiet on the Western Front tour visits the Ypres, the Somme, Arras, the Vimy Ridge and region. There’s also a chance to visit the original World War I trenches that are preserved at Sanctuary Wood, accompanied by a specialist battlefield guide leading the way. legerbattlefields.co.uk

The Battle of Waterloo

Battle Waterloo

Bringing to an end the Napoleonic Wars, Waterloo is one of history’s most significant battles. This tour tells the tale of the events of 1815 and how they enabled the British Empire to establish its rule across the globe for the next 100 years. There’s also the chance to see Brussels’ Grand Place, known for its decorative and aesthetic wealth. kirkerholidays.com

A Bridge too Far

Battle bridge

Trace the footsteps of fallen soldiers and journey into the heart of the ill-fated Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands. The tour visits drop zones, plus key locations of deployment such as Arnhem ad Oosterbeek, examining the combination of factors which, ultimately, led to its failure. Tour dates are available in May, June, September and October. justgoholidays.com

D-Day Landings in Normandy

Battle dday

This World War II introductory tour hones in on the events that took place on June 6 1944, a major milestone in the war. Walk the Normandy beaches where the battles took place and take a look at St. Mère Eglise, where the ‘Band of Brothers’ fought. There are both four- and five-day tour options available, for those wanting to delve deeper. legerbattlefields.co.uk

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