Flanders Fields

Flanders Fields – the area of Flanders where the Allied armies dug in against the invading Germans in the First World War – is known throughout the world. It’s a symbol of the needless suffering and devastation caused by war. But it’s more than a symbol. It’s an area where people lived and still live today. Here are some posts that put the spotlight on this fascinating area of Belgium.

Walking where many had fallen

Two walks that take you through the heart of Flanders Fields to some of the most poignant World War One cemeteries.

Stretcher bearers at Passchendaele, August 1917

Canadians in Belgium: 1914-18

An exhibition at the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres focuses on the contribution of Canadian soldiers in the First World War

Shells from First World War

Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917

The Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917 is dedicated to the horrendous bloodbath that was the Battle of Passchendaele. It displays numerous artefacts from the battle, a Dugout Experience that takes you underground into a mock-up of the British Army’s quarters, and reconstructions of trenches.

Soldiers relaxing in Talbot house

Talbot House: A shelter amidst the storm

Talbot House in Poperinge is one of the most evocative First World War sites in Belgium. It was used by soldiers for rest and relaxation before returning to the Front. It’s still very much as it used to be 100 years ago.

Flanders Fields reconstruction after Armistice 1918

Armistice Day 1918: What Happened Next?

Armistice Day 1918 marked the end of the First World War. We tend to think “phew, that was that!” and believe that people could finally get “back to normal”. But to the Flemish returning to Flanders Fields, they were greeted by desolation and danger. It marked the start of a huge clear-up of the devastated landscape.

Horses were used a lot in the First World War to pull wagons, machinery and guns

Animals in the First World War

The horror of war extends beyond the human tragedy. Over 8 million horses died during the First World War

world war one

How did World War 1 start?

What led to 16 million people losing their lives? And what were the key battles in Flanders, Belgium?