A holiday in Ypres automatically goes hand in hand with a dive into the war past. You can visit the various war memorials and military cemeteries on your own. Or you can go on a trip with Roger of Ypres Battlefield Tours. The originally British guide knows the Westhoek like the back of his hand and tells stories about the First World War and its impact on the people of Ypres with a lot of passion.
Let me start by briefly introducing Roger. Roger Steward has lived in Ypres since 2010. He and his wife moved from the UK to work here as guides and authors. Since his childhood Roger has shown a great interest in the First World War. It is therefore a great honour for him to be a guide in Ypres and the surrounding area.
But what motivates Roger to show tourists the war history every day? "It is important that the stories of the men and women of the Great War continue to be told. Time must not erase their stories. We will remember them!"
Ypres Battlefield Tours
Roger is not only a guide, he is also the proud owner of Ypres Battlefield Tours. Those who live in and around Ypres have probably spotted his van many times. With his organisation, Roger offers several tours that you can book online:
- In Flanders Fields & Passchendaele (3h30)
- Menin Road & Messines (3h30)
- Behind the Lines (3h30)
As Roger is British, all tours are in English. If you wish, Roger can also arrange for a Dutch speaking guide to take you through the Westhoek.
NEW: The Salient at Night
Since 2022 Roger has offered an exclusive night tour in addition to the existing tours. The Salient at Night tour starts once it is dark, so the starting time depends on the period of the year.
During this 2.5 hour tour Roger takes you to the most beautifully lit war memorials in the Ypres area. From Pilkem Rigde to Essex Farm, the moonlight casts a whole new light on the war stories.
This tour can also be booked online via the website of Ypres Battlefield Tours. Highly recommended for night owls!
