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Waterloo Battlefield: Relive History's Decisive Clash

Explore the historic grounds where Napoleon met his final defeat, shaping the course of 19th-century Europe. A must-see for history buffs.

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The Waterloo Battlefield, located near Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium, marks the site of Napoleon's final defeat in 1815. Today, visitors can explore the vast landscape, climb the Lion's Mound for panoramic views, and delve into the battle's history at the Memorial Museum, Panorama, and Hougoumont Farm.

A brief summary to Waterloo Battlefield

  • Monday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the battlefield involves a lot of walking, including climbing the Lion's Mound.
  • Purchase the Waterloo Battlefield Pass for access to all the main sites, including the Memorial Museum, Lion's Mound, Panorama, and Hougoumont Farm.
  • Check the opening hours of each site in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Bring headphones and a fully charged smartphone to use the visitor app for an enhanced tour experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brussels, take a train from Brussels-Midi/Centraal Station to Braine-l'Alleud. Trains run approximately every half hour, with the fast trains taking about 14 minutes. From Braine-l'Alleud station, take the TEC bus line W to the 'Route du Lion' stop, which is a short walk to the battlefield. The bus ride takes about 4 minutes. A single bus ticket costs €2.60. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Braine-l'Alleud station to the battlefield for approximately €10.

  • Driving

    From Brussels, take the R0 ring road and exit at exit 25 towards Butte du Lion. Follow the signs to the Waterloo Battlefield. Please note that Route du Lion is closed near the Lion's Mound, so approach from the northwest via Braine-l'Alleud. There are free parking lots available. Paid parking may be in effect during weekends.

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Discover more about Waterloo Battlefield

The Waterloo Battlefield is a historic site where the fate of Europe was decided on June 18, 1815. Here, Napoleon Bonaparte's French forces clashed with the Allied armies led by the Duke of Wellington and Field Marshal Blücher, marking the end of Napoleon's reign. The battlefield, located 15 kilometers south of Brussels, retains much of its 19th-century topography, allowing visitors to connect with the past. The most iconic landmark is the Lion's Mound, a 40-meter-high artificial hill topped with a bronze lion, commemorating the spot where the Prince of Orange was wounded. Climbing the 226 steps to the summit offers panoramic views of the battlefield. At the foot of the Lion's Mound lies the Memorial Museum, providing interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a 3D film that vividly depict the battle's events. The Panorama, a circular building constructed in 1912, houses a 360-degree painting of the battle, immersing visitors in the thick of the fighting. Hougoumont Farm, a key strategic location during the battle, now features exhibition rooms and a multimedia show that recounts the intense combat that took place within its walls. Visitors can explore other significant sites, including La Haie Sainte farm, and the Gordon Monument. The Wellington Museum in the nearby town of Waterloo displays artifacts related to the Duke of Wellington. Napoleon's Last Headquarters, located south of the battlefield, offers insights into the French emperor's perspective. The Waterloo Battlefield offers a profound and educational experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Walking in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought here provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the events that shaped modern Europe.

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