Visiting the Battlefields of the First World War can be an enlightening and emotional journey for many people. Unlike many other Battlefield Tour operators I have chosen specifically NOT to stay to a planned itinerary whilst guiding. The Western Front covers a large area and all cannot be seen in one day. 

I view my job as more of a passion rather than a job and enjoy taking the time and effort to accurately describe the areas we will travel to, through the use of maps and historical evidence. The First War has left a long lasting legacy in the areas in which it took place, this can be seen today in the form of the hundreds of Military cemeteries that lie in and around the battlefields, Concrete Bunkers, geographical features such as old trenches and Mine Craters and the debris of war which still litters the farmers fields which were once the Battlefields. 

I use the military experience I have attained whilst in the Army to put over to you what the soldiers went through during these difficult times. The First World War is not all about fighting in the front line. A lot went on in the areas behind the lines. Many lasting legacies of what happened in the rear area are visible today. I like to encompass the areas behind the lines as well as the front lines whilst guiding. I find that with careful explanation that this leads to a greater understanding of what happened.

Walking the Battlefields has to be the best way of appreciating what happened in the past. All of my tours can involve short walks as well as driving from location to location.

I operate no strict timings for the tours. Once you book my services (daily rate applies) you have me for a guide as long as you wish. I am happy to guide from Sunrise to Sunset, or longer, if needs must. I am also available for tours that last longer than one day if you wish to travel further afield.

BESPOKE TOURS.

I also operate more Bespoke Tours for those that have an interest in a specialist subject connected to the War. For those with a specific interest, I will encompass this into the tours that I lead. This may involve following in the footsteps of a specific Regiment/Corps. As the subject of the First World War is so vast I would just ask that those who wish to book a Bespoke tour please contact me in advance as this could entail additional research which may have to be carried out. 

LUNCH AND REST STOPS.

An Army marches on its stomach! Never a truer word spoken! During the tour time is taken to stop at Cafes for food and drink. Many of the places that I stop at have connection to the First World War and are little havens for the Battlefield traveler. See my list of places to eat and drink for more information.

TRANSPORT.

All of the tours that I offer begin and end either in Ypres or on The Somme. I can either use my own car for the tours (limited to three passengers) or you may use yours. For any group travel that is planned by minibus or coach please remember to include a space on board for the guide!

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED ON THE TOURS?

Museum Entry Fees

Guides accommodation for overnight stays (unless staying in Ypres)

Cost of drinks/food at cafes. 

SUITABLE CLOTHING FOR THE TOURS.

It is advisable to bring suitable clothing for wearing on the tours. Waterproofs are a must especially in the spring and Autumn. Any tours I lead that require walking are far from being arduous, however it is advisable to bring a sturdy pair of walking boots (with plastic bag for muddy boots). A small day sack with water bottle is also recommended.

PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE BATTLEFIELDS TODAY.

Please take the time to look at my photo galleries of the Battlefields today.

WARNING – UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE!

One of the long lasting legacies of the First War is the amount of unexploded ammunition that still lies in the area. It is not uncommon to see piles of unexploded shells, mortar projectiles and grenades, unearthed by farmers lying at the side of the road or in areas where construction takes place. It is a part of everyday life for the local people who live in these once ravished areas. The French and Belgian Bomb Disposal teams who patrol the areas picking up the UXO are amongst the busiest in the world. It is not unheard of for their annual “Iron Harvest” to be from 100 – 300 tonnes of shells and munitions.
The Shells that are unearthed are still VERY DANGEROUS. Regardless of age and condition these shells are STILL LIVE. The explosive or gas they contain can degenerate over the years and become more dangerous rather than safe. I cannot stress highly enough the danger of touching these devices. It is something I will not tolerate. Leave it to the professionals.