Exploring the Rich History of Observatory Ridge
Discover the historical significance of Observatory Ridge in Ypres, a key site of World War I that offers breathtaking views and a deep sense of remembrance.
Observatory Ridge in Ypres is a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the region's past. Known for its significance during World War I, this site provides a poignant experience for visitors interested in military history and remembrance.
A brief summary to Observatory Ridge
- Schachteweidestraat 45, Ypres, 8902, BE
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning lighting for photography.
- Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Take some time to explore nearby historical sites in Ypres for a fuller understanding of the area's significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area involves some walking and exploration.
- Check local events or commemorations that may be happening during your visit to enhance your experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Start from the Ypres Market Square (Grote Markt), which is a central point in Ypres. Head south on the Ieperstraat towards the Menin Gate. Continue walking straight until you reach the end of the street at the Menin Gate. Turn left onto the Vandenpeereboomplein and follow it until you reach the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the Zonnebeekseweg. Walk along Zonnebeekseweg for about 1.6 kilometers. You will pass by the In Flanders Fields Museum on your right. Continue straight until you reach Schachteweidestraat. Turn right onto Schachteweidestraat, and Observatory Ridge will be on your left at house number 45. The total walking distance is approximately 2 kilometers.
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Bicycle
If you are renting a bicycle in Ypres, start from the Ypres Market Square (Grote Markt). Head south on the Ieperstraat toward the Menin Gate and then take a left onto the Vandenpeereboomplein. Continue straight through the roundabout, taking the first exit onto Zonnebeekseweg. Cycle straight for about 1.6 kilometers, enjoying the scenery. When you reach Schachteweidestraat, turn right, and Observatory Ridge will be on your left at number 45. The total distance by bike is also around 2 kilometers, but it will be quicker than walking.
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Public Transport
From Ypres station, take bus number 3 in the direction of Zonnebeke. Get off at the 'Zonnebeekseweg' stop. From there, walk back towards Zonnebeekseweg and turn left. Continue along Zonnebeekseweg for about 1 kilometer until you reach Schachteweidestraat. Turn left onto Schachteweidestraat, and Observatory Ridge will be on your left at house number 45. Make sure to check the bus schedule as it may vary throughout the day.
Discover more about Observatory Ridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Observatory Ridge
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Sanctuary Wood Cemetery
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Tuileries British Cemetery
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Perth Cemetery (China Wall)
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Chester Farm Cemetery
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Oak Dump Cemetery
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Spoilbank Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery
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Bedford House Cemetery
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British WWI Bunker
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Saint-Charles de Potyze
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Aeroplane Cemetery
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Essex Yeomanry Frezenburg Memorial
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Britse Bunkers Rijselseweg WW1
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Lille Gate
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Ypres Town Cemetery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sanctuary Wood Museum
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Hill 60 Restaurant
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Mine attack 1917: Hill 60 (Hill 60 A)
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Gasthuisbossen
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Caterpillar Mine Crater (Hill 60 B)
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Hooge Crater Cemetery
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Front Line Hooghe
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Hooge Crater Museum
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MODEL WW1 TRENCH SITE
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Papenelst of Twaalf Gemeten
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Provinciedomein Gasthuisbossen Landgoed Godtschalck
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Bloemenkasteel
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Bellewaerde
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Liverpool Scottish Memorial, Railway Wood
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Coming World Remember Me
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant De Palingbeek bv
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De Voerman
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Bacon
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Dépot
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Captain cook
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Gusta food and drinks
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Domein De Lissewal: Yperlee
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La Taj Restaurant - Indian Restaurant
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Klei
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Restaurant Découverte
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Vivaldi Restaurant & Tea Room
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Sushi Star Ieper
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't Appel
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't Zweerd - Brasserie | Grill
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Hotel Gasthof 't Zweerd
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tommy's shop
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Verso Ieper
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Chez Marie
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't Hemelryck
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't Iepertje
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Salient Tours & The British Grenadier Bookshop
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Ypres Poppy Shop
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Ascot
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The Times
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De Kleine Winst
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eco discount
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Baba Shop
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Artex
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Chocolaterie Peter De Groote
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Veritas - Ieper
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Walker
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De Mande
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Ypra Inn
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St Arnoldus
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MQV
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Jupiler
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Trouby
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Kaffee Bazaar
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De Afspraak - Ieper
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Museum Cafe
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Charlie Brown's
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De Vage Belofte - Ieper
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't Genoegen - Ieper
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Sherlock Loungebar
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