Jardin Vauban: Lille's Green Retreat
Escape to Lille's Jardin Vauban: a historic garden offering tranquility, scenic beauty, and cultural charm in the heart of the city.
Jardin Vauban, a 3.5-hectare green space in Lille, offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Designed in 1863 by Barillet-Descamps, the chief gardener for the City of Paris, the garden exemplifies the romantic Second Empire style. The garden is characterized by its winding paths and meticulously maintained flower beds, showcasing the expertise of Lille's gardeners. An artificial cave provides water for the ponds, which are home to ducks and moorhens. The "Chalet aux Chèvres" (goats' shelter) houses a puppet theater since 1989, adding a cultural element to the park. Jardin Vauban also features a fruit tree cultivation garden with old regional varieties of pear and apple trees, pruned in traditional styles. Workshops, established in 1868, continue to teach fruit tree cultivation. Throughout the year, Jardin Vauban hosts various events, enhancing its appeal as a community gathering place. The garden is near the Citadelle of Lille.
Local tips
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lush lawns, especially on a sunny day.
- Visit the puppet theater in the Chalet aux Chèvres for a delightful show, particularly enjoyable for families with children.
- Explore the fruit tree cultivation garden to see traditional pruning techniques and learn about regional fruit varieties.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths to discover hidden statues, monuments, and the artificial cave with its waterfall.
A brief summary to Jardin Vauban
- Bd Vauban, Lille, 59000, FR
- +33362260828
Getting There
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Walking
From Lille's Grand Place, walk south towards Rue de la Monnaie. Continue to Rue du Molinel and turn left. Walk to Place de la République, then continue onto Boulevard de la Liberté. Follow this road to Boulevard Vauban; the garden will be on your right.
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Public Transport
From Gare Lille Flandres, take Line 1 of the Lille Metro towards 4 Cantons. Get off at République - Beaux Arts station. Head south on Rue des Puits de l'Ermite to Place de la République. Continue onto Boulevard de la Liberté, then turn right onto Boulevard Vauban. Jardin Vauban will be on your right. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for 1 hour.
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Bus
From Lille Flandres station, take Bus Line 10 towards Hôpital de Lille. Get off at the Vauban stop. Walk a short distance to Boulevard Vauban, and you'll find Jardin Vauban directly ahead. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for 1 hour.
