Attractions and Places To See around Audruicq - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Audruicq, located in the Pas-de-Calais department, offer a blend of local charm and access to diverse regional attractions. The area features natural landscapes such as the Audomarois Marshes and coastal cliffs, alongside historical sites and cultural points of interest. Audruicq serves as a base for exploring the Hauts-de-France region's natural and historical offerings.
Best attractions and places to see around Audruicq
- The most popular attractions is Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy, a religious…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Watten Hill
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Along the Houlle River
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Saint Willibrord Church ⛪
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Water tank 💧 Uxelles and Varennes barracks 🏰
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This cistern was built in 1724 and collected rainwater from its own roof, …
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Blockhaus d'Éperlecques
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The Éperlecques bunker (also called the Watten bunker) is a World War II bunker in the Éperlecques forest, part of the commune of the same name in the Pas-de-Calais department in France. It was codenamed Kraftwerk Nord West (KNW) and was built by Nazi Germany from 1943 to 1944 as a launch site for V2 rockets aimed at London and southern England. The bunker was built to accommodate more than 100 rockets at a time and to fire 36 per day. A liquid oxygen plant and a bomb-proof post were to be built to supply the site with rockets and supplies from production sites in Germany. It was built by forced laborers from concentration and labor camps, as well as recruited French civilians. The blockhouse was never completed due to repeated bombing by the British and Americans as part of Operation Crossbow. The attacks caused considerable damage and prevented the device from being used in its original function; part of the building was converted into a factory for the production of liquid oxygen. The site was captured by the Allies in early September 1944, but its actual function only became clear after the end of the war. The blockhouse has been a listed building since 1986. In 2014, the museum exhibited the site and the German ballistic program.
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Situated along the River Houlle, the Serques Marshes are part of the larger Audomarois Marshes. This area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and beautiful scenery. The nearby village of Houlle is a popular destination for tourists looking for a peaceful waterside holiday. The River Houlle, a tributary of the Aa, flows through these marshes and provides a picturesque setting for walks and boat trips. The area is also known for the production of Houlle gin, a traditional spirit. The marshes themselves are an important natural area and are home to a variety of plant and animal species. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers.
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Worth the climb up the hill. Small park at the top accesses the mill. Best example I have ever seen
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The Montagne de Watten site is a viewpoint located in Watten, in the Nord department in France. It offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
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The Watten mill was built in the 18th century on the site of a bastion. It has been restored and in the summer the blades turn as before.
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On the hills are also the ruins of an abbey (private property) with a square Gothic tower. The esplanade in front of the abbey entrance offers a view of the gorge formed by the Aa (canal, railway) and the Forêt Domaniale d'Eperlecques.
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The Mont de Watten is the westernmost extension of the West Flemish Hills. With its 72m it dominates the Aa valley and the Flemish plain. Turenne used the hill as a lookout post for the battle of Dunkirk (1658) and much later the German general Guderian, strategist of the Blitzkrieg, did the same (1940). The Watten mill was built in the 18th century on the site of a bastion. It has been restored and in the summer the blades turn again as before. On the hills are also the ruins of an abbey (privately owned) with a square Gothic tower. The esplanade in front of the entrance to the abbey offers a view of the gorge formed by the Aa (canal, railway) and the Forêt Domaniale d'Eperlecques.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Audruicq?
The region around Audruicq is rich in history. You can explore the 15th-century Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy, a listed historic monument offering panoramic views. Another significant site is the Blockhaus d'Éperlecques, a World War II bunker that now serves as a museum. In Audruicq itself, the Église Saint-Martin and the 16th-century Château d'Audruicq are notable landmarks. Further afield, you can visit the historic town of Saint-Omer or the fortified town of Gravelines, which features the Espace Tourville where a 17th-century ship is being reconstructed.
Where can I experience nature and scenic views around Audruicq?
For natural beauty, head to Along the Houlle River, where the Serques Marshes (part of the larger Audomarois Marshes) offer rich biodiversity, walks, and boat trips. The Watten Hill provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including a restored 18th-century mill. The Réserve Naturelle du Platier d'Oye is an important ornithological site for birdwatching, and the iconic Site des Deux Caps (Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez) offers breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Audruicq area?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy is considered family-friendly, as is the Blockhaus d'Éperlecques museum, which offers an engaging historical experience. For a larger family outing, Nausicaá - Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a renowned aquarium and sea life center, one of the top attractions in the region.
What outdoor activities are available near Audruicq's attractions?
The area around Audruicq is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy walking trails, and explore the natural beauty of the Serques Marshes or the Forêt d'Éperlecques. For cycling, there are various road cycling and mountain biking trails. You can discover more about these activities and find detailed routes on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Audruicq, Road Cycling Routes around Audruicq, and MTB Trails around Audruicq.
Where can I find the best panoramic views around Audruicq?
For stunning panoramic views, visit Watten Hill, which offers expansive vistas of the city and its surroundings. The Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy, situated on Mount Saint-Louis, also provides beautiful scenery, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Are there any unique or lesser-known places to discover near Audruicq?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Moulin de la Montagne de Watten, a stone mill dating back to 1731. The nearby village of Houlle, situated along the Houlle River, is known for its traditional gin production and offers a peaceful waterside holiday experience. Exploring Audruicq's historical center and its weekly market on Wednesdays also provides a unique local insight.
What kind of wildlife can I spot near Audruicq?
The Serques Marshes, part of the Audomarois Marshes along the Houlle River, are renowned for their rich biodiversity, making them an ideal spot for nature lovers and bird watchers. Additionally, the Réserve Naturelle du Platier d'Oye is a significant ornithological site, particularly for migratory birds and various duck species.
What is the best time to visit attractions around Audruicq?
The region's attractions, especially the natural and outdoor sites, are best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn (April to October), when the weather is most favorable for walks, boat trips, and exploring coastal areas. However, historical sites and museums are accessible year-round.
Are there any dog-friendly places to visit near Audruicq?
Many outdoor areas around Audruicq are suitable for walks with dogs. The Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy is listed as dog-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash and follow local regulations, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.
Can I visit coastal areas from Audruicq?
Yes, Audruicq serves as a good base for exploring the Opal Coast. The iconic Site des Deux Caps, featuring Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, is a short drive away and offers dramatic white cliffs and stunning sea views. The Maison du Site des Deux-Caps provides information and activities related to the area's nature and discovery.
What local experiences can I have in Audruicq itself?
In Audruicq, you can immerse yourself in local life by exploring the historical center, particularly around the Place de la République with its stunning architecture. The weekly market held on Wednesdays offers a vibrant local experience where you can find regional products and crafts.
Are there any religious buildings with historical significance?
Absolutely. The Saint-Louis Chapel of Guémy, built in the late 15th century, is a unique and historically listed monument. In Gravelines, the Saint Willibrord Church, completed in 1598 in a flamboyant Gothic style, is also a significant historical and religious site.
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