Australian – Out in the Somme Day Tour – from Arras

Planning a trip to France and want to add a meaningful, historically-rich experience? If you’re interested in the WWI Western Front and especially the Australian troops’ role, this Out in the Somme Day Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a unique chance to follow in the footsteps of the ANZAC soldiers, guided by an Australian who knows these battlefields inside out.

What really stands out is that this is the only tour in France run by an Australian guide, which means you get a perspective that’s personal, authentic, and tailored to the Australian experience of WWI. Plus, with a small group of up to 7 travelers, it feels more like a personalized history lesson than a typical bus tour.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full day, around 8 to 9 hours, so you’ll want to be prepared for a good amount of walking and standing. It’s not necessarily designed for those with mobility issues, but for history buffs and those who appreciate a detailed, intimate look at the Western Front, it’s a real gem.

This tour suits singles, couples, or small groups who want a genuine, well-informed day exploring the sites that shaped Australian military history. If you’re after a detailed, respectful, and engaging experience with a touch of Australian pride, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Australian perspective: Guided by the only Australian operator on the Western Front, offering personalized insights.
• Small group size: Up to 7 travelers, making for a more relaxed, engaging experience.
• Rich itinerary: Visits to major war cemeteries, memorials, and battle sites with detailed historical context.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable, engaging, with positive reviews highlighting personalized storytelling.
• All-inclusive for entry fees: No extra costs for sites visited, plus bottled water provided.
• Length and pace: An 8-9 hour tour, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day without rushing.

A Deep Dive into the Out in the Somme Day Tour

When exploring the battlefields of WWI, especially the Western Front, having a knowledgeable guide makes a huge difference. This tour, priced at around $314.51 per person, offers a thorough look at the Australian experience during the battles, with a focus on the key sites that shaped the war and the national memory.

What makes this tour stand out?

First, the guides. Multiple reviews praise Phil, the guide, for his extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned, “Phil was fantastic. He’s been doing these tours for over 10 years and was very informative and engaging.” That kind of experience ensures you’re getting accurate, well-placed insights, making the history come alive. The fact that the guide can personalize the tour to your interests also means you’re not just ticking off sites but exploring the aspects you care about most.

Next, the authenticity of the sites visited. The itinerary hits many of the most significant and emotional sites: from the Serre Road Cemetery No.2, the largest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in the Somme, to the poignant Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery, home to over 11,000 Australian fallen. Walking through the preserved trenches at Beaumont-Hamel or standing on the crest of the Windmill Memorial, where the greatest concentration of Australian casualties lies, truly immerses you in the scale of the conflict.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Each stop on this tour is carefully chosen to tell a part of Australia’s involvement on the Western Front, blending somber remembrance with educational storytelling.

Stop 1: Serre Road Cemetery No.2

This is the largest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in the Somme. Visiting a site like this immediately sets a tone of reflection and respect. The quiet, orderly rows of headstones serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of war. It’s a meaningful place for visitors to start, understanding the scale of loss. The visit lasts about 20 minutes, enough to absorb the atmosphere without dragging the experience on.

Stop 2: Memorial Terre-neuvien De Beaumont-Hamel

Here, you’ll walk through authentic trenches used on July 1, 1916, the first day of the Battle of the Somme. It’s a haunting site that vividly shows what the soldiers faced. The memorial itself honors the Newfoundland Regiment, and the site preserved as it was gives you a direct connection to that brutal day. Expect to spend around 40 minutes here, soaking in the history while standing on the ground where so many fell.

Stop 3: Memorial de Thiepval

This massive memorial is dedicated to over 73,000 missing soldiers, mainly from 1916. The scale of the monument is impressive, and it’s a powerful visual of the scale of the war’s human toll. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, and it’s an essential stop for understanding the scope of the conflict.

Stop 4: Windmill Memorial

Perched at the highest point in the Somme, this memorial offers stunning views across the battlefields. The triangle of farm fields facing this site contains the graves of many Australian soldiers. It’s a symbolic spot, and about 15 minutes are allocated here to appreciate the landscape and remember those fallen.

Stop 5: 1st Australian Division Memorial at Pozieres

This is where the Australian 1st Division first went into battle on the Western Front. It marks a significant moment in Australian military history, with the date July 23, 1916. It’s a short stop, around 10 minutes, but a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice made by Australian troops.

Stop 6: Lochnagar Crater

One of the most spectacular sites, the largest scar on the Western Front, was created by an underground mine blast on July 1, 1916. Standing beside this massive crater brings home the incredible engineering and brutality of trench warfare. Expect about 20 minutes here to take in the scale and reflect.

Stop 7: 3rd Australian Division Memorial

This memorial commemorates the crucial role of the 3rd Australian Division, led by General John Monash, in stopping the last German push in 1918. The site’s strategic position in the ridges and valleys north of Viller-Bretonneux makes it a significant part of the Australian military story. A quick 10-minute stop, but packed with meaning.

Stop 8: Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery

Home to over 11,000 Australian soldiers, many of whom are buried in unknown graves, it’s a somber and respectful place. The Australian National Memorial here is a key site for remembrance. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, providing space for reflection.

Stop 9: Sir John Monash Centre

This is the most advanced Australian information centre on the Western Front, dedicated to all Australian action during WWI. It’s a must-visit, offering multimedia exhibits that bring the history to life. Spending around 60 minutes here, you get a comprehensive understanding of Australia’s involvement, guided by passionate staff.

Stop 10: Franco-Australian Museum (Villers-Bretonneux)

While not included in the tour price, the nearby museum offers insight into the lasting friendship between France and Australia, born from the battles around ANZAC Day 1918. It’s a deeply emotional exhibit that complements the battlefield visits.

Stop 11: Australian Corps Memorial at Le Hamel

This site commemorates the battle led by General Monash which showcased innovative tactics that helped bring WWI closer to an end. The 20-minute stop is a tribute to Australian military ingenuity.

The Practical Side

The tour operates with an air-conditioned vehicle and includes bottled water, making the long day a bit more comfortable. The entry fees for sites are covered, so there are no surprises there. The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup offered, simplifying logistics. It’s designed for most travelers, with a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Price and Value

At $314.51, the cost might seem high, but considering the all-included nature, the expert guidance, and the depth of experience, it offers solid value. You’re paying for a well-organized, informative day with a genuinely Australian perspective. For those deeply interested in WWI history or Australian military history, it’s worth every penny.

The Experience of a Lifetime?

Based on reviews, travelers leave feeling they’ve gained a nuanced understanding of Australia’s role in WWI. One said, “Phil was very knowledgeable with the military history of the area,” and another, “we had a wonderful day out and would recommend this tour.” The guides’ ability to personalize and engage makes a difference, turning what could be a series of gravestones into stories of heroism, sacrifice, and friendship.

Who should consider this tour?

It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, Australians wanting a personal connection to their war heroes, or visitors who appreciate detailed storytelling in a small-group setting. It’s not necessarily suited for mobility-restricted visitors or those looking for a quick overview, but if you want to spend a meaningful day walking through history with a knowledgeable guide, this is a strong choice.

The Sum Up

This Out in the Somme Day Tour from Arras offers a rare, personalized look at WWI battlefields through the eyes of an Australian guide. The thoughtful itinerary, combined with expert storytelling, makes it a meaningful experience for anyone interested in military history or Australian involvement in the war. The small group size ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, ideal for those who like to ask questions and explore at their own pace.

While it is a full day—around 8 to 9 hours—the depth of the stops and the quality of the guide make every minute worth it. It’s a respectful, insightful journey that balances emotional impact with educational value.

If you’re after a genuine, intimate exploration of the Western Front, with a distinctly Australian perspective, this tour is likely to be one of the highlights of your trip. It’s especially fitting for those who want more than just a cursory glance at history, seeking a connection that lingers long after the day ends.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered to make logistics easier, and the tour starts at 9:00 am.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience runs about 8 to 9 hours, including travel time and visiting the stops.

Are entrance fees included?
All site entry fees are covered in the price, so there are no additional charges for the cemeteries or memorials.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, this is a full-day, history-focused tour that involves a lot of walking and standing, so consider your children’s stamina and interest level.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the tour?
The guide can tailor parts of the experience to your interests, making it a flexible and engaging option.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Given the focus on an Australian guide, it’s safe to assume the tour is conducted in English.

If you’re keen on walking through history with a knowledgeable and personable guide, this tour is a memorable way to connect with Australia’s role in WWI and understand the sacrifices made on the Western Front.