Bruges, Ypres & Ghent

Monday

We head for Dover and the ferry crossing to Calais. Arriving Bruges during the afternoon we are free to settle into our new surroundings prior to our included dinner at the hotel.

Tuesday

A day at leisure in the beautiful medieval City of Bruges. With its many fine old buildings, Bruges is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’. By the Burg main square, traditions are still alive with lace shops and market stalls, surrounded by picturesque medieval buildings with pretty gables. The more energetic can tackle the 370 steps of the 13th century Belfry of Bruges! Enjoy some free time or take a canal trip or visit the chocolate museum.

Wednesday

Late morning we commence with a visit to Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest British War Cemetery in the world. We continue to Essex Farm CWGC, where John McCrae wrote the immortal ‘In Flanders Field’ poem, before arriving for free time in the ancient town of Ypres. See the market square, dominated by the huge Cloth Hall, with its magnificent belfry. We suggest you dine in one of the many local restaurants around 6.00pm before taking your place at the Menin Gate, where the Last Post Ceremony is performed daily. The Menin Gate is a memorial dedicated to the missing and bears the names of 54,896 officers and men who died between 1914 and 15 August 1917. Every evening since 11 November 1929, buglers have sounded the emotive Last Post at 8.00pm beneath the archway. We return to the hotel after the Last Post Ceremony.

Thursday

Our day will be spent in one of Belgium’s oldest cities, Ghent, this lovely place boasts an opera house, museums, ancient churches and dozens of bridges. Look out for the medieval belfry with its echoing bell, which, in the past, used to alert Belgium’s rulers of enemy advancements. Nowadays, it’s just part of the city’s charm!

Friday

After breakfast we commence our journey homeward, arriving home during the evening.