School History Trips to Ypres
A town dedicated to the remembrance of the First World War
Unravel the incredible stories behind one of the most significant battlefields of WW1 with School History Trips to Ypres. This unique destination served as a battleground for some of the most intense battles between Germany and the allied armies! Trench warfare, poisonous gas, and military stalemate were just some of the challenges faced by the brave soldiers who fought here.
Step into the story and explore the range of weapons and tactics used during the war, as students gain a real appreciation for the fear and courage felt by those who fought on these very grounds. From Menin Gate to the In Flanders Fields Museum, and Hill 60, every corner of this fascinating town is steeped in the history and memory of the First World War.
Each battle tells its own unique story of struggle and triumph, providing a powerful lesson for students on the impact of conflict.
We get it – history can be heavy! That’s why our school trips to Ypres are designed to be both educational and fun. Ypres is full of exciting exploration and excursions – we’ll strike that perfect balance.
Our Recommended Itinerary
Here’s what your trip could look like
Day 1
Coach and Channel Crossing to Ypres
Visit Hill 60 and Sanctuary Wood Museum (Hill 62)
Evening meal and Fun Files quiz
Day 2
Langemark Cemetery and Tyne Cot Cemetery
Visit In Flanders Field Museum and explore Ypres
Menin Gate & Last Post Ceremony participation
Day 3
Essex Farm Cemetery
Coach and Channel Crossing home
Arrive home
A typical quote is based on a 3 day, 2 night coach tour for 44 passengers (+4 free places) and includes, subject to availability:
- Coaching for the duration of your tour
- Full board accommodation
- Travel insurance
- Free staff place ratio 1:10
- 24/7 support
- Vamoos travel app & info pack
- Tailor-made itinerary
- Motorway tolls and taxes
- VAT
Optional Extras
- History Guide
- Dedicated Tour Manager
- Hoodies and Polo Shirts
Excursions in Ypres
Browse a selection of our favourite excursions
Walibi Belgium
Aqualibi Belgium
Talbot House Museum
Bowling Olympia
Waterloo 1815
Neuve-Chapelle Memoria...
Bayernwald Trenches, Y...
Lijssenthoek Military ...
Memorial Museum Passch...
Essex Farm Cemetery, Y...
Langemark Military Cem...
Tyne Cot Cemetery, Ypres
Hooge Crater Museum, Y...
Menin Gate and Last Po...
In Flanders Field Muse...
Alternative Itineraries
Expertly tailored to the curriculum
WWI Medicine & Surgery
View our specialist itinerary that focuses on this specific area of the curriculum.
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How WWI Changed Literature
View our specialist itinerary that focuses on this specific area of the curriculum.
Discover moreAccommodation
Popular places to stay in Ypres
- Located a short distance from Ypres Market Square
- Adjoining properties that can be used as single units for small groups or both for large groups
- Sole occupancy available (minimum 40 guests)
- Games room
- Wi-Fi
- Customer Feedback: "This place is perfect for a school groups and offers good value for money!" Southfields Academy
- Large breakfast and evening rooms (capacity 135)
- Games room with pool table, table football and pinball machines
- 2 computers with free internet access
- Private courtyard
- Wi-Fi
- Use the large breakfast room for an evening activity
- Play a game of pool or pinball in the games room
- Make use of the computers
- Relax outside in the private courtyard
- Explore Ypres Market Square on foot
- Located on the doorstep of the Menin Gate Memorial
- Sole occupancy available (subject to availability)
- Multi, quad, triple, twin and single bed rooms
- En-suite facilities
- Table tennis and pool table
- Wi-Fi
- Table tennis and pool table
- 2 computers with free internet access
- Teachers’ lounge with cable TV and minibar
- Projector and screen available on request
- Wi-Fi
- Play a game of table tennis or pool
- Make use of the computers
- Arrange a study evening using the projector and screen
- Relax in the teachers’ lounge
Curriculum Information
All secondary school students
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Curricular Links
- Life on the frontline
- Trenches and trench life
- Command and leadership
- War and technology
- Women – their role and the impact of war on their lives
- Medicine and medical advancement
- The Home Front
- The role of the Commonwealth and Empire troops
- Writers and poets
- Conflict and warfare over time
- Links to the AQA and Edexcel exam boards
Step into the story...
History is much more than the events of the past – it encompasses the future and everything else in between! It sparks curiosity and drives learning, encouraging students to question and learn from the world around them.
To bring these thrilling periods of history to life, we have a vast array of tools at our disposal. Discover the fascinating tales of heroism, defeat, learn about the monumental landmarks and the shrouded secrets that have remained hidden for years.
Our devoted history guides transport students back in time, immersing them in the intricacies of historical periods. Check out our FREE history resources too – use them to inspire and educate in the classroom, before and long after your trip!
Discover more about this tour
Special Feature
History Tour Guides
Here's why we recommend a History Tour Guide to enhance your School History Trip to Ypres.
Discover moreOther Destinations
Because choice is what makes life interesting
The Battlefields
Studying war and British society? Develop understanding of the impacts of war along the Western Front.
The Somme
Exploring medicine, medical advancement or the role of the Commonwealth? Develop understanding of these concepts in the Somme.
London
Focusing more on Monarchy and Democracy in Britain? Explore long periods of British history in London.
Real experiences
Why schools choose us
FAQs about this tour
Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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How can I learn more about this trip experience?
This trip experience is impactful, thought-provoking and unforgettable! Take a look at our blog for a reflection of Brighton Hill School’s Battlefields experience – our History Tour Guides truly made it one for the books!
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Would you recommend a history tour guide on this trip?
Absolutely, our History Tour Guides have huge in-depth knowledge of the sites and their history. They bring history to life for students in a whole new way.
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What WW1 battles took place in Ypres?
- First Battle of Ypres 1914 – Attempting to outflank the Allied left, Germany began the ‘Race to the Sea’
- The Second Battle of Ypres 1915 – Poison gas attacks begin
- The Third Battle of Ypres – Also known as the Battle of Passchendaele, the third encounter at Ypres is marked with mud, high rain and considerable casualties.
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Where can I find more information about this destination and its history?
For information on more the WW1 Battlefields – check our resource page!
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What should students pack for a school trip to Ypres?
Here are some of the essentials that students should bring on a history school trip to Ypres (please note that some items are seasonal):
Travel documents:
- Passport
- Visa (if required)
- GHIC card
Clothing:
- Socks
- Underwear
- Tshirts
- Shorts/trousers
- Waterproof coat
- Jumper
- Pyjamas
- Outfits for downtime/ evening meal
- Appropriate footwear
Personal care
- Toiletries- shampoo, bodywash, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, sanitary products
- Medication
Environmental protection items
- SPF
- Hat/cap
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Woolly hat
- Scarf
- Gloves
- Thermal layers
Other
- Chargers for electrical devices
- Plug adapters
- Card games
- Book
- Portable gaming device
2 Brilliant Experts Help Us Enhance Your History Tour Even More!
A Historic Podcast with 2 Excellent History Tour Guides!
Trevor Booker: The History Tour Guide Bringing the Past to Life
Travel in safe hands
Your safety is of the utmost importance to us and we monitor the safety aspects of all of our tours to ensure you have a memorable experience for all the right reasons.
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