Attractions and Places To See around La Bassée - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around La Bassée include a variety of historical landmarks, significant natural features, and cultural sites. This region, situated in northern France, offers opportunities to explore its rich history, particularly related to World War I. Visitors can discover diverse landscapes, from canals ideal for walks and bike rides to natural reserves. The area provides a range of points of interest for those exploring the Pays de Weppes.
Best attractions and places to see around La Bassée
- The most popular attractions is Australian Memorial Park Fromelles, a man-made monument that commemorates Australian soldiers who died during the Battle of Fromelles in 1916. The park features the "Cobbers" statue, depicting Sergeant Simon Fraser carrying a wounded comrade, symbolizing bravery and camaraderie.
- Another must-see spot is Canal de la Deûle, a river and cycle way. This canal is one of the oldest in northern France, connecting the Scarpe River at Douai with the Lys River near the Belgian border, offering paths for walks and bike rides.
- Visitors also love Le Trou Aid Post Cemetery, a cemetery established by British soldiers in October 1914. It commemorates soldiers who died in various battles, including Le Maisnil, Aubers Ridge, Loos, and Fromelles, and is known for its rural setting.
- La Bassée is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The area offers a mix of World War I memorials, scenic canals, and local markets to see and explore.
- The attractions around La Bassée are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 230 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Australian Memorial Park Fromelles
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Le Trou Aid Post Cemetery
Highlight • Other
The cemetery initially contained 123 graves, but was expanded after the war. It now contains over 350 graves, of which over 200 are unknown. The cemetery commemorates soldiers who died in a number of battles, including Le Maisnil (October 1914), Aubers Ridge (May 1915), Loos (September–October 1915), and Fromelles (July 1916).
A special feature of the cemetery is its rural setting, surrounded by a narrow moat and sheltered by a grove of weeping willows. Visitors reach the cemetery via a footbridge and enter through a delicate cottage-style gate.
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
Canal de la Deûle
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Chartreuse Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs de la Boutillerie
Highlight • Historical Site
The monastery was very visited. Behind a monumental entrance gate and thick surrounding wall stood two towers housing the clock and the carillon. The library housed more than 2,300 books. The 92 meter long vaulted cloister was glazed and paved. The church, paved with white and black marble, was decorated with paintings by Arnoult Vuez. The altar was topped by a painting by Rubens.
With the revolution, the Chartreuse was delivered into the hands of demolitionists. Postcards from the beginning of the 20th century still showed the monumental entrance gate in neoclassical style and the surrounding wall.
During the First World War, the remains of the Chartreuse were marked by the conflict which was only a few hundred meters from the front line. The destruction caused the abbey to disappear, leaving only a few vestiges of the surrounding wall.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hill 70 Canadian Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around La Bassée.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The battle of Fromelles on 19 July 1916 was a bloody initiation for Australian soldiers to warfare on the Western Front. Soldiers of the newly arrived 5th Australian Division, together with the British 61st Division, were ordered to attack strongly fortified German front line positions near the Aubers Ridge in French Flanders. The attack was intended as a feint to hold German reserves from moving south to the Somme where a large Allied offensive had begun on 1 July. The feint was a disastrous failure. Australian and British soldiers assaulted over open ground in broad daylight and under direct observation and heavy fire from the German lines. Over 5,500 Australians became casualties. Almost 2,000 of them were killed in action or died of wounds and some 400 were captured. This is believed to be the greatest loss by a single division in 24 hours during the entire First World War. Some consider Fromelles the most tragic event in Australia’s history. https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/fromelles
0
0
Near the front line in 1916, a fierce battle was fought between the British (Australians) and the Germans. To commemorate 'la bataille' and the wounded who were brought back from the battlefield, a monument/statue was erected here.
1
0
Anecdote: During the battle, Sergeant Simon Fraser heard a wounded soldier cry out, "Don't forget me, cobber!" Despite the danger, Fraser returned to the battlefield to save the man, an act of bravery that was later immortalized in the statue. This event emphasizes the sacrifice and strong bond between soldiers during the horrors of war.
7
0
The Cobbers Australian Memorial is located in the Australian Memorial Park near Fromelles. This memorial commemorates the Australian soldiers who died during the Battle of Fromelles on 19-20 July 1916. The statue, designed by Peter Corlett, shows Sergeant Simon Fraser carrying a wounded comrade out of no man's land. The name "Cobbers" comes from a letter Fraser wrote, describing the bravery and camaraderie of the soldiers.
7
0
Le Trou Aid Post Cemetery was established in October 1914 by British soldiers of the 19th Infantry Brigade during the First Battle of Ypres. The cemetery initially contained 123 graves, but was expanded after the war. It now contains over 350 graves, of which over 200 are unknown. The cemetery commemorates soldiers who died in a number of battles, including Le Maisnil (October 1914), Aubers Ridge (May 1915), Loos (September–October 1915), and Fromelles (July 1916). A special feature of the cemetery is its rural setting, surrounded by a narrow moat and sheltered by a grove of weeping willows. Visitors reach the cemetery via a footbridge and enter through a delicate cottage-style gate.
7
0
Most of the path is very smooth and you can enjoy the few birds and (rarely) the sun reflecting in the water. Unfortunately it is very often spoiled by the discharges from factories or sewers which often bring a foul smell, especially when the water is stirred up by the few barges that pass by.
0
0
Amidst the quiet roads of western Lille lies this listed cemetery, which is the final resting place of hundreds of Commonwealth soldiers from the First World War.
0
0
The Canal de la Deûle is one of the oldest canals in northern France and connects the river Scarpe at Douai with the river Lys at Deûlémont, near the Belgian border. The canal is approximately 34.8 km long and has 3 locks. Most of the canal is included in the high-quality Dunkerque-Escaut waterway, and the remaining section through the port of Lille is often considered a branch of the main route, hence the alternative names Liaison or Antenne Bauvin-Lys.
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites and memorials can I visit around La Bassée?
The region is rich in history, particularly related to World War I. You can visit the Australian Memorial Park Fromelles, which commemorates Australian soldiers from the Battle of Fromelles in 1916 and features the poignant "Cobbers" statue. Another significant site is Le Trou Aid Post Cemetery, a serene military cemetery established by British soldiers in 1914. Additionally, the Hill 70 Canadian Memorial commemorates a strategic victory for the Canadian Army in August 1917. Beyond WWI, you can explore the remains of the historic Chartreuse Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs de la Boutillerie, a former monastery with a rich past.
Are there natural areas or waterways for outdoor activities near La Bassée?
Yes, the area offers several natural features perfect for outdoor pursuits. The Canal de la Deûle is ideal for pleasant walks or bike rides along its old towpath. The Aire Canal, often called a 'green lung' of the city, is also popular for walking, cycling, and fishing, with opportunities for birdwatching. Furthermore, the Réserve Naturelle Nationale de la Bassée is a vast flood plain and the largest wetland area in Île-de-France, showcasing diverse environments.
What kind of cycling routes are available around La Bassée?
La Bassée offers a variety of cycling routes for different skill levels. You can find moderate touring bicycle routes like the 'Deûle Canal loop' or the 'Canal de la Deûle – Marsh Pond loop'. For those looking for more challenging rides, there are MTB trails such as the 'Spoil heaps 74 and 74a – Tout in haut de ch'terril loop'. You can explore more options and detailed route information in the Cycling around La Bassée guide or the MTB Trails around La Bassée guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the La Bassée region?
Many of the historical sites, such as the Australian Memorial Park Fromelles and the Hill 70 Canadian Memorial, are considered family-friendly and offer educational experiences. The canals, like the Canal de la Deûle, provide flat paths suitable for family walks and bike rides. Additionally, the local Bibliothèque Pour Tous actively promotes cultural engagement with activities like storytelling for children.
What hiking opportunities are there near La Bassée?
You'll find several hiking trails around La Bassée, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Examples include the 'Pont des Crêtes – The new bridge loop' and the 'Old footbridge – The new bridge loop', both considered easy. For a slightly longer walk, consider 'The Cuinchy Lock – Pont des Crêtes loop'. More details and routes can be found in the Hiking around La Bassée guide.
What are some notable architectural landmarks in La Bassée itself?
Within La Bassée, you can admire the contemporary architecture of the Saint-Vaast Church, which was erected in the early 2000s on medieval remains, featuring reinforced concrete and glass. The Renaissance-style Town Hall, dating back to the 1920s, is another architectural highlight. The grand building of Institution Notre-Dame also showcases the town's historical importance.
Where can I find cultural points of interest or local events in La Bassée?
La Bassée has a vibrant cultural scene. The Bibliothèque Pour Tous offers various animations, including author encounters, exhibitions, book discussions, and poetry circles. The town also hosts a weekly market on Thursdays, and the surrounding area frequently features cultural events, festivals, and spectacles. Keep an eye out for local listings during your visit.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around La Bassée?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical context, especially the poignant World War I memorials like the Australian Memorial Park Fromelles, which evokes strong emotions and offers a deep sense of remembrance. The serene and rural setting of places like Le Trou Aid Post Cemetery is also highly valued. Many enjoy the peaceful walks and bike rides along the canals, such as the Canal de la Deûle, for their natural beauty and tranquility.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots to enjoy the landscape?
The Hill 70 Canadian Memorial offers a viewpoint where you can admire the surrounding landscape, including a view of the city of Lens. The paths along the Canal de la Deûle and the Aire Canal also provide pleasant scenic stretches, especially for observing local birdlife and the water reflecting the sky.
What is the significance of the 'Cobbers' statue at Fromelles?
The 'Cobbers' statue, located within the Australian Memorial Park Fromelles, is a powerful symbol of bravery and camaraderie. It depicts Sergeant Simon Fraser carrying a wounded comrade out of no man's land during the Battle of Fromelles in 1916. The name 'Cobbers' comes from a letter Fraser wrote, describing the strong bond and sacrifice among the soldiers, making it a very moving tribute.
Can I find monuments dedicated to local figures in La Bassée?
Yes, La Bassée honors its local figures. Inside the town hall, you can find the Boilly Monument, which pays homage to the artist-painter born in La Bassée. Additionally, the Monument Maurice Bouchery, a stone cross with a bronze portrait, is situated on Rue de la Gare, commemorating Maurice Bouchery, a figure from the Resistance.
Most popular attractions around La Bassée
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
