Attractions and Places To See around Morchies - Top 20
Attractions around Morchies, a small commune in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, primarily consist of historical sites and natural features in its surrounding area. The region is notable for its World War I history, with numerous memorials and battlefields, alongside architectural landmarks like belfries. Visitors can explore both cultural heritage and natural reserves within a short distance of Morchies.
Best attractions and places to see around Morchies
- The most popular attractions is Sains-les-Marquion British Cemetery, a military cemetery…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Sains-les-Marquion British Cemetery
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1917 — Écoust-Saint-Mein
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Bapaume Town Hall
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Monument to Abel Guidet
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Saint-Léger
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The church of St.Leger, rebuilt, as was the whole village, after the First World War.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery.
The village was situated in an …
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French politician, MP and then resistance fighter, born on November 6, 1890 in Bapaume, he became mayor of the town in 1929. In 1934, he was elected general councilor of Pas-de-Calais. In 1936, he ran in the legislative elections and was elected in the second round. He was arrested in 1943 by the Nazis as he left the prefecture, and deported to the Gross-Rosen camp where he died on November 27, 1944. Since 1948, a monument showing him at the time of his arrest honors his memory. At the Town Hall there is an urn with soil from Gross-Rosen as well as a painting of him.
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French politician, MP and then resistance fighter, born on November 6, 1890 in Bapaume, he became mayor of the city in 1929, in 1934, he was elected general councilor of Pas-de-Calais. In 1936, he ran in the legislative elections and was elected in the second round. He was arrested in 1943 by the Nazis when he left the prefecture, and deported to the Gross-Rosen camp where he died on November 27, 1944. Since 1948, a monument showing him at the time of his arrest honors his memory. At the Town Hall there is an urn with soil from Gross-Rosen as well as a painting representing him.
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The town of Bapaume built its first Town Hall, a symbol of the city's independence, during the 12th century. The ground floor served as a market hall for merchants. Upstairs are the council chamber and the hall where public festivals were celebrated. The current architecture of the Town Hall is similar to the previous one, built between 1583 and 1611 and destroyed on March 25, 1917 following the explosion of a time bomb left by the Germans. After a slow and dangerous mine-clearing operation, it was rebuilt in its original location in 1931 and 1932 according to the plans of Mr. Eugène Bidard. The town's coat of arms is sculpted on the keystone of the entrance door. The slate roof is decorated with pointed dormers. At the top of the tower, an outdoor gallery allows you to admire the panorama. The belfry spire peaks at 55m.
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Places of Interest The church of St.Leger, rebuilt, as was the whole village, after the First World War. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery. The village was situated in an area that was heavily fought over during the war. There are several military cemeteries in the area, including the Heninel-Croisilles Road Cemetery, where many soldiers who fought near Saint-Léger are buried. An interesting anecdote is that Saint-Léger and the surrounding villages changed hands several times during the war between the Allies and the German troops. This caused much destruction and suffering among the local population.
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The British cemetery of Sains-les-Marquion contains the graves of 255 soldiers who died during the First World War, mainly Canadians who liberated the village from German occupation in September 1918. You can admire the architecture of the cemetery, designed by W C Von Berg, and pay tribute to fallen heroes.
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Commonwealth Military Cemetery: https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2102502/sains-les-marquion-british-cemetery/
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passage on the scene of the battle of Arras at Ecoust st mein and bullecourt (where there is a museum), mentioned in the film "1917"
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites related to World War I can I visit near Morchies?
The area around Morchies is rich in World War I history. You can visit the Sains-les-Marquion British Cemetery, which commemorates 255 soldiers, mainly Canadians. Another significant location is 1917 — Écoust-Saint-Mein, marking the scene of the Battle of Arras, with a museum in Bullecourt. The village of Saint-Léger also has a Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery and was heavily fought over. Further afield, consider the Arras Carrière Wellington, a series of tunnels used during the war, or the town of Péronne, known for its wartime museum.
Are there any notable architectural landmarks or town halls to see?
Yes, the region features several impressive architectural sites. The Bapaume Town Hall, rebuilt after its destruction in 1917, boasts a belfry spire peaking at 55m. Nearby, you can explore UNESCO World Heritage belfries such as the Beffroi de Cambrai, Beffroi et hôtel de ville d'Arras, and the Beffroi de Douai. The Arras Citadelle also showcases significant military architecture, and the 16th-century town hall in Saint-Quentin is remarkable.
What natural features or reserves are there to explore near Morchies?
While Morchies itself is a small commune, the surrounding area offers several natural reserves. These include the Réserve naturelle régionale du Marais de Wagnonville, the Réserve naturelle régionale de la Tourbière de Vred, and the Réserve naturelle régionale du Pré des Nonnettes. Further out, you can find the Réserve naturelle des Marais d'Isle and the Réserve naturelle de l'Étang Saint-Ladre, all highlighting the region's biodiversity.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Morchies?
The area around Morchies is suitable for various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and mountain biking. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles, mountain bikes, and road cycling. For example, there are moderate cycling loops like the 'Beaumetz Cross Roads Cemetery – Chemin du Canal loop from Quéant' and mountain bike trails such as the 'Battle of Écoust-Saint-Mein loop from Écoust-Saint-Mein'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Cycling around Morchies, MTB Trails around Morchies, and Road Cycling Routes around Morchies.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the vicinity?
Yes, the Bapaume Town Hall is categorized as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture. Its belfry spire provides a panoramic view from the outdoor gallery. Exploring the various historical sites and natural reserves can also be an engaging experience for families interested in history and nature.
What do visitors appreciate most about the attractions near Morchies?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance of the sites, especially those related to World War I, and the architectural beauty of the local landmarks. The Sains-les-Marquion British Cemetery is noted for its architecture and as a place to pay tribute. The Bapaume Town Hall is admired for its historical resilience and design. The komoot community has shared 3 photos and given 10 upvotes, indicating a positive reception for the area's offerings.
Can I find information about local historical figures or memorials?
Yes, you can visit the Monument to Abel Guidet in Bapaume. This monument honors Abel Guidet, a French politician and resistance fighter who was deported and died in Gross-Rosen camp during World War II. The Town Hall also houses an urn with soil from Gross-Rosen and a painting of him, preserving his memory.
What is the best time to visit Morchies for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Morchies for outdoor activities like cycling and exploring natural reserves is generally during the milder months, from spring through early autumn. This period offers more pleasant weather for enjoying the historical sites and natural landscapes. Always check local forecasts before planning your trip.
Are there any notable gardens or larger cathedrals within a reasonable distance?
Yes, if you're willing to venture a bit further, you can visit Les Jardins de Sericourt, beautiful gardens located approximately 49 km west-north-west. For a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, the 13th-century Amiens Cathedral is about 54 km west-south-west of Morchies.
What are some of the more unique historical insights available in the area?
Beyond the major WWI sites, you can discover unique insights into the region's past. For instance, Cambrai, about 20 km east, was the site of the world's first tank battle. The history of Saint-Léger, where the village and church were entirely rebuilt after WWI, offers a poignant story of resilience. The repeated changing of hands between Allied and German troops in villages like Saint-Léger during the war highlights the intense conflict experienced by local communities.
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