Waterloo
The Battle of Waterloo 1815
The Battle of Waterloo marked a huge change in the way in which warfare was to be conducted. Wellington’s momentous victory not only brought about significant political change to Europe and the wider world, but also the decline of long established military order. Our visit to Waterloo in company with an expert Military Historian will use the chronology of the battle to highlight not just the roles of the key commanders but also the nature of warfare experienced on the rain-sodden field of Waterloo. We will consider the decisive impact of Wellington on the day, the effect of concentrated British musketry on massed French Infantry and the diminished influence of once all-powerful cavalry when faced with well-trained, disciplined Infantry and Artillery. The learning experience will be reinforced with visits to the Lion Mound to view the terrain, the Panorama to gain understanding of troop types and the Waterloo Visitor Centre to view the weapon types employed during the battle.
PLACES TO VISIT
The Panorama
Next to Memorial 1815 stands the Panorama, a vast circular building housing Louis Dumoulin’s 1912 painting marking the battle’s centenary. Its scale, detailed depictions and 360° presentation create an immersive experience that places visitors at the heart of the action.
The Memorial
Buried at the foot of the Lion’s mound the Memorial gives you the opportunity to experience one of the most turbulent times in history through a multi sensory experience.
The Lion's Mound
From the top of the hill, you can view the entire battlefield, with a panoramic table showing infantry formations and cavalry positions throughout the battle. The mound marks the spot where the Prince of Orange was reportedly wounded before later becoming King of the Netherlands.
Hougoumont Farm
This fortified farm protected the Allies’ right flank and became one of the fiercest battle points on 18 June. Though the orchard and garden changed hands seven times, the 1,500 coalition soldiers held firm. The original farmhouse burned down, and the building seen today is the former gardener’s house.
Itinerary Example
3-Day Napoleonic History Focus: Battle of Waterloo & Flanders
Bring 19th-century European history and military strategy to life. Designed for History students, this 3-day tour explores the dramatic climax of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815, covering key tactical strongholds, iconic monuments, and interactive visitor exhibits alongside en-route Flanders sites.
Day 1: Journey Across the Channel & Flanders En Route (19th-Century & WWI History)
Day 1
Morning: Depart your pickup location by executive coach for a morning ferry or Eurotunnel crossing to Calais.
Afternoon: Travel east toward Belgium. Depending on your route and schedule, stop in Ypres to explore the historic town centre, Cloth Hall, or local memorial sites.
Evening: Arrive at your accommodation in the Kortrijk area. Check-in, unpack, and enjoy a warm group dinner together.
Day 2: Full-Day Exploration of the Battle of Waterloo (Tactics & Napoleonic History)
Day 2
Morning: Depart after breakfast with packed lunches for the historic battlefield of Waterloo. Visit the underground Memorial Museum to explore interactive battle maps, uniform displays, and immersive 4D cinema exhibits.
Afternoon: Climb the 226 steps of the Lion’s Mound (Butte du Lion) for panoramic views across the battlefield. View the monumental 19th-century Panorama Canvas, then tour the fortified farm of Hougoumont—the vital tactical stronghold held by British Guards.
Evening: Return to your accommodation centre for a hot group meal and an evening debrief session.
Day 3: Final Historical Site & Homeward Journey (Heritage & Reflection)
Day 3
Morning: Check out after breakfast with packed lunches. Time permitting based on travel distance, enjoy a final visit in the Waterloo area or a stop in historic Ghent or Bruges.
Afternoon/Evening: Drive to Calais for your return channel crossing, arriving back at your drop-off location with a deeper understanding of European military history.
Optional En-Route Visits & Extensions
Depending on your your organisation's location, budget, and travel schedule, popular add-on stops for this route include:
Wellington Museum (Waterloo Town): Located in the former inn where the Duke of Wellington set up his headquarters, housing personal artifacts and battlefield reports.
Le Caillou (Napoleon’s Headquarters): Explore the farmhouse where Napoleon spent the night before the battle and planned his battle tactics.
Plancenoit Village: Visit the site of the fierce fighting between French forces and Blücher's Prussian army.
Note on En-Route Timings: Available visit time on Day 1 and Day 3 depends on your your organisation's departure location and travel distance to the channel ports
PLACES TO STAY
Youth Hostel Groeninghe
Next to Memorial 1815 stands the Panorama, a vast circular building housing Louis Dumoulin’s 1912 painting marking the battle’s centenary. Its scale, detailed depictions and 360° presentation create an immersive experience that places visitors at the heart of the action.