Waterloo Day Trip
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
1-Day Express History Focus: The Battle of Waterloo
Designed for your organisations seeking a focused, cost-effective study tour in a single day. Departing early from the UK, this intensive itinerary gives travellers an authentic, hands-on connection to the climax of the Napoleonic Wars covering 19th-century military tactics, key strongholds, and panoramic battlefields with zero overnight accommodation costs.
Early Crossing & Journey to Waterloo (Napoleonic History Focus)
Morning
Early Morning: Depart your organisation early by executive coach for an early ferry or Eurotunnel crossing from Dover/Folkestone to Calais.
Mid-Morning: Drive east into Belgium toward the historic site of the 1815 Battle of Waterloo.
Interactive Memorial, Lion's Mound & Hougoumont Farm (Tactics & Heritage)
Afternoon
Lunch: Packed lunches (or dine in local cafe) at the visitor centre or surrounding battlefield grounds.
Early Afternoon: Explore the underground Memorial Museum featuring interactive battle maps, uniform displays, and immersive 4D cinema exhibits. Climb the 226 steps of the Lion’s Mound (Butte du Lion) for sweeping views across the battlefield landscape.
Late Afternoon: Visit the 19th-century Panorama Canvas, then tour the fortified farm of Hougoumont—the vital tactical stronghold held by British Guards during the battle.
Homeward Crossing & Return to your organisation
Evening
Early Evening: Depart Waterloo and drive back to Calais for your evening channel crossing.
Late Evening: Complete the return coach journey back to your organisation, bringing home powerful insights into 19th-century European history.
Optional En-Route Visits & Extensions
Depending on your your organisation's departure location and channel crossing times, popular alternative or add-on stops for this 1-day route include:
Wellington Museum (Waterloo Town): Visit the Duke of Wellington’s former headquarters to view original battle orders and personal artifacts.
Le Caillou (Napoleon’s Headquarters): Explore the farmhouse where Napoleon spent the night before the battle and planned his strategy.
Ghent or Bruges En Route: A short stop in a historic Flemish town for architecture or cultural study if travel timings permit.
Note on Feasibility: 1-Day trips to Waterloo are most suitable for your organisations based in London, the South East, and the East of England due to travel distance from cross-channel ports.
Youth Hostel Groeninghe
Located in Kortrijk.
• Students in 2 – 6 bedded en-suite rooms.
• Staff in single or twin en-suite rooms.
• Meeting rooms for use by groups.
• Lounge area.