Click the above map to see where the Somme and Ypres battlefields are located relative to Calais. All of our hotels are centred either on or very close to the battlefields as we feel that it’s important that our clients are literally within earshot of where these two most significant battles took place. We are not like an online booking agency we pick and choose our hotels carefully, working mainly with privately owned hotels where we now the staff and management personally (and they get to know how fussy we are!). We have now included the Ibis Hotel in Albert (Somme), which is the only hotel being part of the respected Accor group, due to its extremely close location to the Somme battlefield - and we have tried it ourselves and are happy to recommend it! There are two clickable location map links below, the one on the right showing the location of our Ypres battlefield hotels (all of which lie within the inner ‘old town’) and the the one on the left showing the same for the Somme battlefield. Please scroll down the either of the two columns to see the hotels we offer. There are two luxury boutique hotels marked with a red star which carry a supplement available upon request.

Self-Drive tours to the

Somme and Ypres battlefields HOTEL OPTIONS

Somme Hotel Locations

Somme Battlefield Tours Ltd Wimborne Dorset BH21 1EJ Tel: +44 (0) 7776 195773 or +44 (0) 1202 840520 info@battlefield-tours.com

Our Ypres Hotels

Ypres Hotel Locations

Our Somme Hotels

The recently re-furbished and extended 4-star Ariane Hotel, which has a large open private car park for guests, is one of our favourite hotels. The Hotel is quietly located close to the centre of this most poignant town (the main square and ‘In Flanders’ Fields Museum a 5-10 minute walk - see map above). We particularly like the Ariane Hotel (as we do the Albion and Main Street Hotels which we also recommend) as it is a privately owned hotel and so not part of some large faceless chain. Natasja, the owner of the Ariane hotel, and her lovely ‘A Team’ of staff, are what really makes this one of the very best hotels in Belgium. Rooms at the Ariane Hotel are either ‘Comfy’ (24 sq m), or slightly larger ‘’Prestige’ rooms (28 sq m), or ‘Prestige Family’ rooms for more than two guests. The Prestige Family rooms (33 sq m) comprise a king-sized double bed and a good quality sofa bed, which will be made up for you ready for a good night’s sleep. We usually quote for the Comfy rooms, which are really nice, which can be upgraded if you wish at an additional cost. The English speaking staff at this hotel (especially those manning the reception…) are extremely helpful and will do their utmost to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

The 3-star AlbionHotel (Ypres)

The 3-star Albion Hotel is conveniently located close to the central market square (Grote Markt) of Ypres (Ieper) and just a few minutes walk to the Menin Gate. The Albion hotel is also just a few yards from the famous ramparts that encircle the eastern side of the city . The Albion Hotel is not part of some larger chain, but owned and managed by Christiane and her daughters Ruth and Daphne, who take great pride in welcoming everyone to their hotel. Whilst the hotel offers a lavish breakfast for guests (one of the best...) it does not have a restaurant for evening meals. This is not a problem as the Albion Hotel is located in the centre of Ypres and is surrounded by many excellent restaurants catering for all tastes. Christiane, Ruth and Daphne or any of their helpful staff, will be pleased to advise you on where best to dine (their helpful guidance will take you to excellent restaurants off the usual tourist route...). The entire hotel is strictly non-smoking. Please note that triple rooms comprise a double bed and a good quality roll-out (temporary) bed which is more suited to children and young persons. There is a large private car park at the rear of the hotel for guests at an additional per-night cost payable to reception. There is also on-street parking around the hotel, both metered and no-charge, as well as nearby EV charge points.

The 3-star Hotel New Regina (Ypres)

The recently completely re-built Hotel ‘New’ Regina Hotel (replacing the ‘old’ Regina Hotel with its long and proud history) was opened in March 2018. The inside of the building was completely cleared away to make way for completely new rooms and restaurant (some standard twin and double em-suite rooms can be on the small side), with the exception of the listed façade which stands as proud today as it did when the hotel was re-built soon after the Great War. The New Regina’s main appeal is its location right in the very centre of Ypres, being directly opposite the famous Cloth Hall and entrance to the acclaimed In Flanders Fields Museum. The hotel has its own restaurant on the ground floor which does a thriving trade with visitors to this most poignant town of the Great War. The hotel does not have its own car park but parking is usually not a problem as there as there is a large public off- road car park to the east of the main square (‘Grote Markt’), in front of the hotel, as well as street parking in the roads that surround the hotel.

The 2-star Ambrosia Hotel (Ypres)

The Ambrosia is a small, privately owned and run hotel right in the centre of Ypres, quietly located just a 100 metre walk from the main square and superb In Flanders Fields Museum. The Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing is just a short 3 minute walk from the main Square. The owners Vincent and Iwona have created a simple yet fresh contemporary feel in the way they have so tastefully and lovingly furnished their hotel, as you can see from the photos below (just click the pictures). Rooms are located on three floors and there is no lift (though we can request a room on the first floor if this helps). The hotel does not have a dedicated car park but on- street parking in this quiter part of town us usually not a problem. . Other features include High 4.5/5+ Tripadvisor feedback Free wi-fi Bicycles are available to rent direct from the Hotel Ambrosia (a great way to explore the countryside!) Both cooked and continental breakfasts (included with our self-drive tours)

The 3-star Ibis Hotel, Albert (Somme)

The 57-room 3-star Ibis Hotel is situated on the outskirts of the main WW1 battlefield town of Albert and less than a mile from the British Front Line on 1 July 1916, where casualties were amongst the greatest that fateful day. The Ibis hotel is easy to find as it is located adjacent to the main D929 road which leads to the town of Albert directly from the A1 autoroute/motorway/freeway from Calais. The hotel is set in its own spacious grounds with a large private car park, set amongst other industrial premises about 20 minutes walk from the centre of Albert. The smart en-suite rooms (see photos below) are typical of the Ibis and similar travel hotels. Triple rooms comprise a double and a single drop-down bed, which is more suited for younger children. The hotel has its own restaurant and bar with a local speciality pizza-like dish (extremely nice!) and limited range of other meal options being offered throughout the year, with the exception of the quieter winter months when the restaurant’s opening times may be more restricted. There are a number of other restaurants in and around the centre of Albert.

The 3-star Hotel Royal Picardie, Albert, Somme

The recently (2024) refurbished 3- star Hotel Royal Picardie is situated on the outskirts of the small town of Albert, which lay just behind the Front Line in 1916. The hotel has a large open car park immidiateky adjacent to the hotel and free WiFi. The Hotel is located just ten minutes stroll from the centre of Albert and the famous Basilica (of leaning statue fame), with renovated rooms located mainly on one upper floor by ascending a wide open staircase (no lift). We have been using the Royal Picardie for over twenty years. All rooms are have been updated and include a separate bathroom (bath and over-bath shower or alternative walk-in shower), separate WC and tea and coffee facilities. The Hotel Royal Picardie has a spacious restuarant which after renovations is due to open May 2024. There are also a other dining options to be found in the centre of Albert which we will list in the advice which accompanies your guide material. Constance Rouvillain, the Hotel Manager, says "Our commitment is to provide a memorable and enjoyable stay for every guest. With a fresh new look and an array of amenities, the hotel continues to be a top choice for travellers seeking a tranquil and comfortable retreat in Albert, France's Somme region."

The 2-star Hotel De la Basilique Albert (Somme)

The Hotel De la Basilique is a traditional 10-bedroom 2-star hotel situated right in the very heart of Albert, one of the main 'battlefield towns' of the Great War - and the Somme battle in particular. Its location opposite the famous Basilica, and excellent museum beneath the streets of the town, just can not be beaten and the restaurant is superb (Didier, the owner, is the head chef). One used to be able to find these small family-run hotels all over France, but not so much today. Although fairly basic, the Basilique remains one of our favourite hotels. We have been using this hotel for our conducted and self- drive tours for over 20 years and as a private visitor for over 40 years! The reason for choosing this hotel is because it's a truly family-run establishment, a factor which is very important to us. Didier Petit has lived here since a child, where he watched his mother and father run the hotel - as Didier and Sandy's two children now do likewise! The hotel De la Basilique has single, double and twin rooms. All rooms have colour television (with an English channel) and en-suite facilities (some with bath, shower & WC, others just shower and WC. If you are thinking of booking the Hotel de la Basilique as part of your self-drive battlefield tour then please bear in mind that the hotel is closed on Sundays after serving lunch (a very popular spot for locals...) and all day Mondays, so unfortunately no overnight stays Sunday and Monday nights .

The 3-star Hotel De la Paix, Bapaume (Somme)

The original Hotel De La Paix has been completely refurbished (2014) and today offers very modern en-suite rooms, the majority comprising either a double bed or a double bed and a lone single bed such as shown to the right of this page. This combination is used for triple and twin-bed bookings, so one occupant has to draw the short straw! The hotel is located just 3 minutes from the main Lille-Paris Autoroute A1 (Junction 14) so very easy to find for our clients. The 3-star De La Paix is located at the edge of Bapaume (see blue star 1916 battlefield diagram below) with the town just a few minutes walk away. The De La Paix has its own restaurant with additional dining options nearby in the town itself. Off-road parking for guests is in front of the hotel.
Trench Map of Bapaume showing the disposition German trench defences (red) in 1916. The blue star shows the location of the Hotel De La Paix today, which you'll see is just behind the German defence line! Bapaume 1918 (German photograph)

Avril Williams Guest House (Somme)

The 4-star Ariane Hotel (Ypres)

Avril Williams Guest House and Tea Rooms is situated just about as close as one can stay to the 1916 Front Line of the Somme battlefield. The preserved trenches at Newfoundland Park are just a few minutes stroll down a quiet (now…) country lane, as are other famous battlefield places such as the massive Hawthorn Crater (blown on the 1st July 1916), Beaumont Hamel, Sunken Road and ‘White City’. A particularly interesting feature of Avril’s Guest House is her museum of WWI artefacts (and some WWII), and cellar beneath her house which once provided shelter and first aid to troops serving in the Front Line a only a short walk away. These cellars featured in the BBC television documentary ‘War Walks’. Avril’s accommodation has also featured in articles produced by The Times and Telegraph newspapers. Avril’s is particularly suited to those who wish to escape the formality of normal hotel life - in the company of chickens, sheep and what other ‘visiting’ animals Avril happens to be caring for when you come to stay! The accommodation at Avril's comprises a mix of double, single and twin rooms (all en-site), as well as a ‘proper’ fried breakfast for those wanting a more substantial start to the day. The accommodation at Avril's is comfortable, clean and unfussy. Avril offers an evening meal for guests staying with her at a fixed price, including wine (though some clients have chosen to eat out in the evening, the nearest town being Albert, some 8 miles away - see map below). Visitors to this guest house will be able to see for themselves the result of many years hard work by some of Avril’s ‘fan club’ in excavating the trenches (see picture) that once connected the property to the main trench system of the Front Line (as commented upon by Edmund Blunden in his memorable book ‘Undertones of War’.
The location of the Somme and Ypres battlefields relative to Calais
Ewart Alan Mackintosh Ewart Alan Mackintosh was the son of Alexander Mackintosh, from Inverness-shire. Mackintosh served in France from July 1915, appointed battalion bombing officer. In May Mackintosh led a successful raid on a German trench, during which three of his men had arms or legs blown off; despite his struggles to carry them back in, they all died. The action brought him the Military Cross, though he wrote that he would ‘rather have the boys’ lives’. It also inspired his best-known poem, ‘In Memoriam’, which shows the depth of the love for his men and the sense of responsibility which was to urge him to return to the Front. He was himself wounded and gassed at High Wood in August 1916. Mackintosh was killed in the fighting around Cambrai on 21st November 1917.
In Memoriam Ewart Alan Mackintosh So you were David’s father, And he was your only son, And the new-cut peats are rotting And the work is left undone, Because of an old man weeping, Just an old man in pain, For David, his son David, That will not come again. Oh, the letters he wrote you, And I can see them still, Not a word of the fighting, But just the sheep on the hill And how you should get the crops in Ere the year get stormier, And the Bosches have got his body, And I was his officer. You were only David’s father, But I had fifty sons When we went up in the evening Under the arch of the guns, And we came back at twilight - O God! I heard them call To me for help and pity That could not help at all. Oh, never will I forget you, My men that trusted me, More my sons than your fathers’, For they could only see The little helpless babies And the young men in their pride. They could not see you dying, And hold you while you died. Happy and young and gallant, They saw their first-born go, But not the strong limbs broken And the beautiful men brought low, The piteous writhing bodies, The screamed ‘Don’t leave me, Sir’, For they were only your fathers But I was your officer.
Trench map dated 1916 showing the location of Avril Williams' Guest House (blue star) to the battlefield just a few hundred metres to the east. Aerial photo of location of Avril Williams' Guest House to the 1916 Somme battlefield.
Luxury bed and breakfast accommodation in the Somme region of France has traditionally been hard to find. At Le Macassar the owners offer their guests the comfort and service of a small luxury boutique hotel, together with the relaxation and informality of a private home. Suites vary in size, layout and furnishing ranging. This unique hotel is offered by as as an option at an added supplement upon request. Le Macassar has been awarded Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year for the past 13 years, as well as having been awarded Trip Advisor’s ‘Travellers’ Choice’ Top 10 B&B’s in Europe. Extensively restored in the 1920's and 30's, the building boasts unique art deco - and earlier art nouveau interiors alongside traditional eighteenth century rooms. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the entire property, including a large and sunny formal courtyard garden. Have a quiet moment with a book in the art nouveau splendour of the Majorelle drawing room, relax with a glass of wine or bubbly and hors d'ouvres after a days sight seeing; or challenge fellow guests to a game of French billiards in the art deco billiard room - their home is yours to enjoy during your stay. For breakfast, a delicious and varied selection of home made and local produce, including cooked specialities, are included - served in the dining room or on the terrace at a time to suit you and not the owners! The owners will be happy to make recommendations and reservations for lunch or dinner at one of the superb restaurants in and around Corbie. Due to the abundance of antiques Le Macassar may not be suitable for younger children.

Le Macassar - luxury boutique hotel

(Corbie, Somme - supplement upon request)

The Voyageur Suite The Blue Delft Room The Art Deco Suite The Art Deco Suite The Art Deco Suite The Empire Suite Location of Corbie relative to the Somme 1916 battlefield
This is how Elodie, the lovely owner of Main Street describes her hotel: “Are you curious, in for a treat, bored by the standard, looking for the unusual, yet homely? Do you like luxury and comfort, high quality and a breakfast to die for? Are you after a small but fun place to stay, close to all the must- sees, history and nature? We have what you are looking for! So go ahead and book one of our six surprising rooms with included breakfast, free mini-bar and gorgeous bathrooms. and an honesty-bar worth exploring!” And Elodie is about right. Situated just a 5+ minute walk from the main Square (see map left) Main Street Hotel has a cosy, welcoming and slightly quirky in a very nice way, which every single one of our clients who have stayed there have voted it as one of the best hotels they have stayed at (hence TripAdvisor rating being 5/5!).

Main Street - boutique hotel Ypres

(supplement upon request)

The Atelier Room: Free minibar, airconditioning, bath, bath-robe, coffee/tea maker, dvd-player, hair dryer, heating, including daily newspaper, jacuzzi/whirlpool, patio, rainshower, safe deposit box, satelite tv, seating area, slippers, telephone and more Atelier bathroom The Pottery Room: Free minibar, coffee/tea making, air conditioning, bath, bath-robe, bathroom, coffee/tea maker, dvd-player, extra-long beds (> 2 meter), hair dryer, including breakfast, internet facilities, mini-bar, patio, radio, rain shower, safe depo The Glory Room: Free minibar, coffee/tea making facilities, air conditioning, bath, bath-robe, bathroom, bathroom amenities, coffee/tea maker, DVD-player, extra-long beds (> 2 meter), hair dryer, heating, radio, safe deposit box, satellite tv and more! Experiment Room: This rather quirky room has twin beds and a cupboard full of scientific objects! The bathroom has a rainshower with side showers and more! The Wild Room:  Free Wi-Fi, free Nespresso & tea and free minibar. A very cosy and unusually decorated room with original wooden beams. Bathroom in black ceramics with duo-bath & built-in flat screen TV and separate shower. Main Street Hotel (Ypres) The Top Room: Comfortable Nill-Spring box springs, double Bed (180x200) or 2 Single Beds, Kusatsupool + hand-shower, water-resistant Bathroom TV, separate Rain shower + hand-shower, free mini-bar, free Nespresso-Coffee/tea, large Flat Screen TV/Radio & mo
Full menu
Somme Battlefield Tours Ltd Tel: 07776 195773 or 01202 840520 info@battlefield-tours.com
Home Home Testimonials Testimonials Our Self-Drive Tours Our Self-Drive Tours Hotel Options Hotel Options Get a Quotation Get a Quotation About Us About Us Contact Us Contact Us The Ariane Hotel with private parking Hotel Royal Picardie entrance lobby Extensive lounge/bar area Hotel Royal Picardie bar Triple room with AC (double & single  bed) Twin room with AC Double room with AC Bathroom - all rooms have a separate toilet. Some bathrooms have walk-in showers The wonderful staff . . . the 'A' Team! The spacious reception lounge The Ariane Hotel's mini WW1 museum The Ariane Hotel's mini WW1 museum The Ariane Hotel's relaxing patio, with easy access to the bar Standard (aka 'Comfy') large double or twin room Standard (aka 'Comfy') large double or twin room The Ariane Hotel's family 'Prestige Superior' room comprising a large double and good-sized sofa bed which will be made up for you ready for a good night's sleep! The Ariane Hotel's breakfast bar (cooked options also possible)
The Atelier Room: Free minibar, airconditioning, bath, bath-robe, coffee/tea maker, dvd-player, hair dryer, heating, including daily newspaper, jacuzzi/whirlpool, patio, rainshower, safe deposit box, satelite tv, seating area, slippers, telephone and more Atelier bathroom The Pottery Room: Free minibar, coffee/tea making, air conditioning, bath, bath-robe, bathroom, coffee/tea maker, dvd-player, extra-long beds (> 2 meter), hair dryer, including breakfast, internet facilities, mini-bar, patio, radio, rain shower, safe depo The Glory Room: Free minibar, coffee/tea making facilities, air conditioning, bath, bath-robe, bathroom, bathroom amenities, coffee/tea maker, DVD-player, extra-long beds (> 2 meter), hair dryer, heating, radio, safe deposit box, satellite tv and more! Experiment Room: This rather quirky room has twin beds and a cupboard full of scientific objects! The bathroom has a rainshower with side showers and more! The Wild Room:  Free Wi-Fi, free Nespresso & tea and free minibar. A very cosy and unusually decorated room with original wooden beams. Bathroom in black ceramics with duo-bath & built-in flat screen TV and separate shower. The Top Room: Comfortable Nill-Spring box springs, double Bed (180x200) or 2 Single Beds, Kusatsupool + hand-shower, water-resistant Bathroom TV, separate Rain shower + hand-shower, free mini-bar, free Nespresso-Coffee/tea, large Flat Screen TV/Radio & mo
Luxury bed and b r e a k f a s t accommodation in the Somme region of France has traditionally been hard to find. At Le Macassar the owners offer their guests the comfort and service of a small luxury boutique hotel, together with the relaxation and informality of a private home. Suites vary in size, layout and furnishing ranging. This unique hotel is offered by as as an option at an added supplement upon request. Le Macassar has been awarded Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year for the past 13 years, as well as having been awarded Trip Advisor’s ‘Travellers’ Choice’ Top 10 B&B’s in Europe. Extensively restored in the 1920's and 30's, the building boasts unique art deco - and earlier art nouveau interiors alongside traditional eighteenth century rooms. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the entire property, including a large and sunny formal courtyard garden. Have a quiet moment with a book in the art nouveau splendour of the Majorelle drawing room, relax with a glass of wine or bubbly and hors d'oeuvre after a days sight seeing; or challenge fellow guests to a game of French billiards in the art deco billiard room - their home is yours to enjoy during your stay. For breakfast, a delicious and varied selection of home made and local produce, including cooked specialities, are included - served in the dining room or on the terrace at a time to suit you and not the owners! The owners will be happy to make recommendations and reservations for lunch or dinner at one of the superb restaurants in and around Corbie. Le Macassar regrets that due to the abundance of antiques it is not a suitable destination for children under 12.
All our hotels are centred on either the Somme or Ypres battlefields as we feel that it’s important that our clients are literally within earshot of where these two most significant battles took place. We are not like an online booking agency for we mainly work with privately owned hotels where we now the staff and management personally (and they get to know how fussy we are!). We have now included the Ibis Hotel in Albert, which is the only hotel being part of the respected Accor group, due to its close location to the Somme battlefield - and we have tried it ourselves and are happy to recommend it! As space is limited we’ve listed our Somme hotels first followed by our Ypres hotels, each having a clickable location map link at the head of the list. Please also note that Le Macassar (Somme) & Main Street luxury boutique hotel (Ypres) carries a supplement available on application (see red stars).
Somme Battlefield Tours Ltd Wimborne Dorset BH21 1EJ +44 (0) 7776 195773 or +44 (0) 1202 840520 info@battlefield-tours.com

Le Macassar - luxury boutique hotel

(Corbie, Somme - supplement upon request)

The Blue Delft Room The Voyageur Suite The Art Deco Suite The Art Deco Suite The Empire Suite

Our Ypres Hotels

The Art Deco Suite

Ypres hotel Locations

Our Somme Hotels

(followed by Ypres)

Somme Hotel Locations

The 3-star AlbionHotel (Ypres)

The 3-star Albion Hotel is conveniently located close to the central market square (Grote Markt) of Ypres (Ieper) and just a few minutes walk to the Menin Gate. The Albion hotel is also just a few yards from the famous ramparts that encircle the eastern side of the city . The Albion Hotel is not part of some larger chain, but owned and managed by Christiane and her daughters Ruth and Daphne, who take a pride in ensuring that their guests are made to feel most welcome. Whilst the hotel offers a lavish breakfast for guests (one of the best...) it does not have a restaurant for evening meals. This is not a problem as the Albion Hotel is located in the centre of Ypres and is surrounded by many excellent restaurants catering for all tastes. Christiane, Ruth and Daphne or any of their helpful staff, will be pleased to advise you on where best to dine (their helpful guidance will take you to excellent restaurants off the usual tourist route...). The entire hotel is strictly non-smoking. Please note that triple rooms comprise a double bed and a good quality roll-out (temporary) bed which is more suited to children and young persons. Upgrade rooms are also possible. There is a large private car park at the rear of the hotel for guests at an additional per-night cost payable to reception. There is also on-street parking around the hotel, both metered and no-charge with EV charge points nearby.

The 3-star Hotel New Regina (Ypres)

The recently completely re-built Hotel ‘New’ Regina Hotel (replacing the ‘old’ Regina Hotel with its long and proud history) was opened in March 2018. The inside of the building was completely cleared away to make way for completely new rooms and restaurant (some standard twin and double em-suite rooms can be on the small side), with the exception of the listed façade which stands as proud today as it did when the hotel was re-built soon after the Great War. The New Regina’s main appeal is its location right in the very centre of Ypres, being directly opposite the famous Cloth Hall and entrance to the acclaimed In Flanders Fields Museum. The hotel has its own restaurant on the ground floor which does a thriving trade with visitors to this most poignant town of the Great War. The hotel does not have its own car park but parking is usually not a problem as there as there is a large public off- road car park to the east of the main square (‘Grote Markt’), in front of the hotel, as well as street parking in the roads that surround the hotel.

The 2-star Ambrosia Hotel (Ypres)

The Ambrosia is a small, privately owned and run hotel right in the centre of Ypres, quietly located just a 100 metre walk from the main square and superb In Flanders Fields Museum. The Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing is just a short 3 minute walk from the main Square. The owners Vincent and Iwona have created a simple yet fresh contemporary feel in the way they have so tastefully and lovingly furnished their hotel, as you can see from the photos below (just click the pictures). Rooms are located on three floors and there is no lift (though we can request a room on the first floor if this helps). The hotel does not have a dedicated car park but on- street parking in this quiter part of town us usually not a problem. Other features include High 4.5/5+ TripAdvisor feedback Free wi-fi Bicycles are available to rent direct from the Hotel Ambrosia (a great way to explore the countryside!) Both cooked and continental breakfasts (included with our self-drive tours)

The 3-star Ibis Hotel, Albert (Somme)

Location of Corbie relative to the Somme 1916 battlefield
The 57-room 3-star Ibis Hotel is situated on the outskirts of the main WW1 battlefield town of Albert and less than a mile from the British Front Line on 1 July 1916, where casualties were amongst the greatest that fateful day. The Ibis hotel is easy to find as it is located adjacent to the main D929 road which leads to the town of Albert directly from the A1 autoroute/motorway/freeway from Calais. The hotel is set in its own spacious grounds with a large private car park, set amongst other industrial premises about 20 minutes walk from the centre of Albert. The smart en-suite rooms (see photos below) are typical of the Ibis and similar travel hotels. Triple rooms comprise a double and a single drop-down bed, which is more suited for younger children. The hotel has its own restaurant and bar with a local speciality pizza-like dish (extremely nice!) and limited range of other meal options being offered throughout the year, with the exception of the quieter winter months when the restaurant’s opening times may be more restricted. There are a number of other restaurants in and around the centre of Albert.
The location of our Somme hotels

The 2-star Hotel De la Basilique Albert (Somme)

The Hotel De la Basilique is a traditional 10-bedroom 2-star hotel situated right in the very heart of Albert, one of the main 'battlefield towns' of the Great War - and the Somme battle in particular. Its location opposite the famous Basilica, and excellent museum beneath the streets of the town, just can not be beaten and the restaurant is superb (Didier, the owner, is the head chef). One used to be able to find these small family-run hotels all over France, but not so much today. Although fairly basic, the Basilique remains one of our favourite hotels. We have been using this hotel for our conducted and self- drive tours for over 20 years and as a private visitor for over 40 years! The reason for choosing this hotel is because it's a truly family-run establishment, a factor which is very important to us. Didier Petit has lived here since a child, where he watched his mother and father run the hotel - as Didier and Sandy's two children now do likewise! The hotel De la Basilique has single, double and twin rooms. All rooms have colour television (with an English channel) and en-suite facilities (some with bath, shower & WC, others just shower and WC. If you are thinking of booking the Hotel de la Basilique as part of your self-drive battlefield tour then please bear in mind that the hotel is closed on Sundays after serving lunch (a very popular spot for locals...) and all day Mondays, so unfortunately no overnight stays Sunday and Monday nights.

The 3-star Hotel De la Paix, Bapaume (Somme)

The original Hotel De La Paix has been completely refurbished (2014) and today offers very modern en-suite rooms, the majority comprising either a double bed or a double bed and a lone single bed such as shown to the right of this page. This combination is used for triple and twin-bed bookings, so one occupant has to draw the short straw! The hotel is located just 3 minutes from the main Lille-Paris Autoroute A1 (Junction 14) so very easy to find for our clients. The 3-star De La Paix is located at the edge of Bapaume (see blue star 1916 battlefield diagram below) with the town just a few minutes walk away. The De La Paix has its own restaurant with additional dining options nearby in the town itself. Off-road parking for guests is in front of the hotel.
Trench Map of Bapaume showing the disposition German trench defences (red) in 1916. The blue star shows the location of the Hotel De La Paix today, which you'll see is just behind the German defence line! Bapaume 1918 (German photograph)

Avril Williams Guest House (Somme)

Avril Williams Guest House and Tea Rooms is situated just about as close as one can stay to the 1916 Front Line of the Somme battlefield. The preserved trenches at Newfoundland Park are just a few minutes stroll down a quiet (now…) country lane, as are other famous battlefield places such as the massive Hawthorn Crater (blown on the 1st July 1916), Beaumont Hamel, Sunken Road and ‘White City’. A particularly interesting feature of Avril’s Guest House is her museum of WWI artefacts (and some WWII), and cellar beneath her house which once provided shelter and first aid to troops serving in the Front Line a only a short walk away. These cellars featured in the BBC television documentary ‘War Walks’. Avril’s accommodation has also featured in articles produced by The Times and Telegraph newspapers. Avril’s is particularly suited to those who wish to escape the formality of normal hotel life - in the company of chickens, sheep and what other ‘visiting’ animals Avril happens to be caring for when you come to stay! The accommodation at Avril's comprises a mix of double, single and twin rooms (all en-suite), as well as a ‘proper’ fried breakfast for those wanting a more substantial start to the day. The accommodation at Avril's is comfortable, clean and unfussy. Avril offers an evening meal for guests staying with her at a fixed price, including wine (though some clients have chosen to eat out in the evening, the nearest town being Albert, some 8 miles away - see map below). Visitors to this guest house will be able to see for themselves the result of many years hard work by some of Avril’s ‘fan club’ in excavating the trenches (see picture) that once connected the property to the main trench system of the Front Line (as commented upon by Edmund Blunden in his memorable book ‘Undertones of War’. .
Trench map dated 1916 showing the location of Avril Williams' Guest House (blue star) to the battlefield just a few hundred metres to the east. Aerial photo of location of Avril Williams' Guest House to the 1916 Somme battlefield.

Battlefield Locations

The location of our Ypres hotels

Ypres Hotel Locations

Main Street Hotel (Ypres)
Luxury bed and breakfast accommodation in the Somme region of France has traditionally been hard to find. At Le Macassar the owners offer their guests the comfort and service of a small luxury boutique hotel, together with the relaxation and informality of a private home. Suites vary in size, layout and furnishing ranging. This unique hotel is offered by as as an option at an added supplement upon request. Le Macassar has been awarded Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year for the past 13 years, as well as having been awarded Trip Advisor’s ‘Travellers’ Choice’ Top 10 B&B’s in Europe. Extensively restored in the 1920's and 30's, the building boasts unique art deco - and earlier art nouveau interiors alongside traditional eighteenth century rooms. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the entire property, including a large and sunny formal courtyard garden. Have a quiet moment with a book in the art nouveau splendour of the Majorelle drawing room, relax with a glass of wine or bubbly and hors d'ouvres after a days sight seeing; or challenge fellow guests to a game of French billiards in the art deco billiard room - their home is yours to enjoy during your stay. For breakfast, a delicious and varied selection of home made and local produce, including cooked specialities, are included - served in the dining room or on the terrace at a time to suit you and not the owners! The owners will be happy to make recommendations and reservations for lunch or dinner at one of the superb restaurants in and around Corbie. Due to the abundance of antiques Le Macassar may not be suitable for younger children.

Le Macassar Luxury Hotel (Somme)

(supplement applies upon request)

Main Street Luxury Hotel (Ypres)

(supplement applies upon request)

This is how Elodie, the lovely owner of Main Street describes her hotel: “Are you curious, in for a treat, bored by the standard, looking for the unusual, yet homely? Do you like luxury and comfort, high quality and a breakfast to die for? Are you after a small but fun place to stay, close to all the must-sees, history and nature? We have what you are looking for! So go ahead and book one of our six surprising rooms with included breakfast, free mini-bar and gorgeous bathrooms. and an honesty-bar worth exploring!” And Elodie is about right. Situated just a 5+ minute walk from the main Square (see map left) Main Street Hotel has a cosy, welcoming and slightly quirky in a very nice way, which every single one of our clients who have stayed there have voted it as one of the best hotels they have stayed at (hence TripAdvisor rating being 5/5!).
Menu

Self-Drive tours to the

Somme and Ypres battlefields HOTEL OPTIONS
Somme Battlefield Tours Ltd Tel: 07776 195773 or 01202 840520 info@battlefield-tours.com

The 3-star Hotel Royal Picardie, Albert, Somme

The recently (2024) refurbished 3- star Hotel Royal Picardie is situated on the outskirts of the small town of Albert, which lay just behind the Front Line in 1916. The hotel has a large open car park immidiateky adjacent to the hotel and free WiFi. The Hotel is located just ten minutes stroll from the centre of Albert and the famous Basilica (of leaning statue fame), with renovated rooms located mainly on one upper floor by ascending a wide open staircase (no lift). We have been using the Royal Picardie for over twenty years. All rooms are have been updated and include a separate bathroom (bath and over-bath shower or alternative walk-in shower), separate WC and tea and coffee facilities. The Hotel Royal Picardie has a spacious restuarant which after renovations is due to open May 2024. There are also a other dining options to be found in the centre of Albert which we will list in the advice which accompanies your guide material. Constance Rouvillain, the Hotel Manager, says "Our commitment is to provide a memorable and enjoyable stay for every guest. With a fresh new look and an array of amenities, the hotel continues to be a top choice for travellers seeking a tranquil and comfortable retreat in Albert, France's Somme region."
Hotel Royal Picardie entrance lobby Extensive lounge/bar area Hotel Royal Picardie bar Triple room with AC (double & single  bed) Twin room with AC Double room with AC Bathroom - all rooms have a separate toilet. Some bathrooms have walk-in showers
The recently re-furbished and extended 4-star Ariane Hotel, which has a large open private car park for guests, is one of our favourite hotels. The Hotel is quietly located close to the centre of this most poignant town (the main square and ‘In Flanders’ Fields Museum a 5-10 minute walk - see map above). We particularly like the Ariane Hotel (as we do the Albion and Main Street Hotels which we also recommend) as it is a privately owned hotel and so not part of some large faceless chain. Natasja, the owner of the Ariane hotel, and her lovely ‘A Team’ of staff, are what really makes this one of the very best hotels in Belgium. Rooms at the Ariane Hotel are either ‘Comfy’ (24 sq m), or slightly larger ‘’Prestige’ rooms (28 sq m), or ‘Prestige Family’ rooms for more than two guests. The Prestige Family rooms (33 sq m) comprise a king-sized double bed and a good quality sofa bed, which will be made up for you ready for a good night’s sleep. We usually quote for the Comfy rooms, which are really nice, which can be upgraded if you wish at an additional cost. The English speaking staff at this hotel (especially those manning the reception…) are extremely helpful and will do their utmost to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

The 4-star Ariane Hotel (Ypres)

The wonderful staff . . . the 'A' Team! The spacious reception lounge The Ariane Hotel with private parking The Ariane Hotel's mini WW1 museum The Ariane Hotel's mini WW1 museum The Ariane Hotel's relaxing patio, with easy access to the bar Standard (aka 'Comfy') large double or twin room Standard (aka 'Comfy') large double or twin room The Ariane Hotel's family 'Prestige Superior' room comprising a large double and good-sized sofa bed which will be made up for you ready for a good night's sleep! The Ariane Hotel's breakfast bar (cooked options also possible)