Sanctuary Wood Cemetery: A Solemn Tribute to History
Explore the poignant Sanctuary Wood Cemetery in Ypres, a sacred military memorial honoring the bravery of fallen soldiers from the First World War.
Sanctuary Wood Cemetery in Ypres stands as a poignant memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the First World War. Nestled in serene surroundings, it offers visitors a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made during one of history's most significant conflicts.
A brief summary to Sanctuary Wood Cemetery
- Canadalaan 35/21, Ypres, Zillebeke, 8902, BE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Take time to read the individual headstones to appreciate the stories of those who served.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sanctuary Wood Museum for a deeper understanding of the area’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cemetery's paths can be uneven and are best explored on foot.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Markt square in Bruges, head northeast towards the 'Zuidzandstraat'. Walk straight until you reach 'Oude Burg', then turn left onto 'Burg'. Continue on 'Burg' until you reach 'Sint-Jansstraat' and turn right. Follow 'Sint-Jansstraat' until you reach 'Korte Zilverstraat', then turn left. Keep walking straight until you reach the 'Vismarkt' and continue straight to 'Korte Zilverstraat'. After a short walk, you will reach 'Bruges Railway Station'. From there, take a train to 'Ypres'. The train ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at 'Ypres', exit the station and head southwest on 'Stationsstraat'. Continue onto 'Korte Zand' and follow the road until you reach 'Canadalaan'. Sanctuary Wood Cemetery will be located at 'Canadalaan 35/21'.
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Train
From Bruges railway station, board a train heading to 'Ypres'. Make sure to check the train schedule for any changes. The journey will take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at 'Ypres', exit the train station and walk south towards 'Stationsstraat'. Continue walking straight until you reach 'Korte Zand'. Turn left onto 'Korte Zand', and then take a right onto 'Canadalaan'. Sanctuary Wood Cemetery is located at 'Canadalaan 35/21', just a short walk down the road.
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Bus
From the central bus station in Bruges, take bus line 25 that goes directly to 'Ypres'. Ensure you have a valid ticket before boarding. The bus ride will take approximately 35 minutes. After arriving at 'Ypres', disembark at the main bus stop. From there, walk southwest on 'Stationsstraat', then continue onto 'Korte Zand'. Finally, turn right onto 'Canadalaan'. Sanctuary Wood Cemetery will be located at 'Canadalaan 35/21' and will be just a few minutes' walk from the bus stop.
Discover more about Sanctuary Wood Cemetery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Hooge Crater Museum
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Essential places to dine
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Domein De Lissewal: Yperlee
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La Taj Restaurant - Indian Restaurant
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Hotel Gasthof 't Zweerd
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Chez Marie
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Verso Ieper
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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