Best attractions and places to see around Hem, a commune in northern France near Lille and Roubaix, offer a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The area features notable landmarks and natural features, providing diverse points of interest for visitors. This region is characterized by its historical architecture and scenic waterways.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Hem.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
3
0
Super nice, and go inside the courtyard, you have old book sellers there.
2
0
For a cycling tourist, the arrival at the Roubaix velodrome is also a great moment. Even after dozens of times!
5
0
For the legend this race is, and how normal in fact the velodrome is...
4
0
Built between 1652 and 1653, this former stock exchange is a jewel of Flemish architecture. It is made up of 24 identical houses surrounding an interior courtyard where book sellers and tango demonstrations take place today in summer.
3
0
A very famous part of the Paris/Roubaix cycling race
6
1
Last bend before the cyclists enter the track.
6
1
You can enjoy tranquil waterways and scenic paths. The Port of Wambrechies is a peaceful river area, ideal for a visit, located near a church, a castle, and a distillery. The Espierres Canal, which connects the Deûle with the Scheldt, is known for its cycling paths and beautiful surroundings. Additionally, the Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix offers a unique experience with different path surfaces on each side of the border.
Yes, the area boasts several significant historical and cultural sites. The Roubaix Velodrome is a historical open-air cycling track, famous as the destination for the Paris-Roubaix cycling race. In Lille, the Old Stock Exchange of Lille is a magnificent 17th-century Baroque Flemish architectural marvel. You can also explore Vieux-Lille, known for its picturesque medieval streets, or visit the stunning Art Deco La Piscine Museum in Roubaix.
The region around Hem is excellent for various outdoor activities, especially cycling and walking. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles, mountain bikes, and road cycling. For example, explore routes like the 'Heron Lake – Greenway Hem-Anstaing loop' for cycling, or 'Chemin des Vaches – Chemin des lacs loop' for mountain biking. For more detailed routes, check out the dedicated guides for Cycling around Hem, MTB Trails around Hem, and Road Cycling Routes around Hem.
Many attractions around Hem are suitable for families. The Port of Wambrechies is considered a family-friendly viewpoint, offering a peaceful setting. The canals, such as the Espierres Canal and the Canal de Roubaix, provide scenic paths perfect for family walks or bike rides. The Roubaix Velodrome can also be an interesting visit for sports-loving families.
The best time to visit Hem for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather for cycling along the canals, exploring walking trails, and enjoying the natural features. The region's 'Villes & Villages fleuries' (flowered towns and villages) are particularly charming during these seasons.
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for walking and hiking around Hem. For example, the 'Allée des Frênes – Greenway Hem-Anstaing loop' is an easy cycling route that can also be enjoyed for walking. For mountain biking, the 'Chemin des Vaches – Chemin des lacs loop' and 'Sartel Artel Mural – La Maison du Canal loop' are rated as easy. You can find more options in the Cycling around Hem and MTB Trails around Hem guides.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural tranquility. The peaceful atmosphere of places like the Port of Wambrechies and the scenic cycling paths along the canals are highly rated. The rich history of sites like the Roubaix Velodrome and the architectural beauty of the Old Stock Exchange of Lille also receive significant praise.
Yes, you can find facilities near some attractions. The Roubaix Velodrome has facilities including a pub. The Port of Wambrechies is a great spot to visit, with tips suggesting to 'go have a drink at La Ginguette,' indicating nearby establishments. Vieux-Lille also offers numerous cafes and pubs.
Absolutely. The Old Stock Exchange of Lille stands out as a magnificent example of 17th-century Baroque Flemish architecture, featuring rich decorations and a gold-colored Mercury statue. In Roubaix, the La Piscine Museum, housed in a stunning Art Deco former swimming pool, is celebrated for its unique architecture and collections.
The Roubaix Velodrome is an iconic open-air cycling track with a long history, primarily known as the finish line for the famous Paris-Roubaix cycling race. It's a significant historical site for cycling enthusiasts, with the last 300 meters named after Charles Crupelandt, the only Paris-Roubaix winner from Roubaix.
Yes, the canals in the region offer excellent cycling opportunities. The Espierres Canal is known for its new cycle path and beautiful surroundings. The Canal de Roubaix, which forms part of the border between Belgium and France, also features cycling paths, with the Euro Velo Route 5 leading along it. You'll notice a difference in the paths, with the Belgian side often paved and the French side gravel.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: