Attractions and places to see around Authie encompass a region rich in history and natural landscapes, primarily centered around the Authie River Valley in Hauts-de-France. This area is known for its significant World War I memorials, preserving battlefields and commemorating historical events. Beyond its historical importance, the Authie River Valley offers diverse terrain, from green landscapes to the wild Authie Bay, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can discover a blend of historical landmarks and natural features, making it a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The monument to the 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders is a Celtic cross symbolically erected on the embankment of a sunken road, at the spot where the men of this regiment rushed to capture the village of Beaumont-Hamel on November 13, 1916, at the end of the Battle of the Somme. First, on July 1, when it was located in no man's land, exactly equidistant from the British and German trenches, and served as a refuge for so many soldiers wounded during the fighting; then, five days before the end of that same battle, when the village of Beaumont-Hamel was finally captured on November 13, by the men of the 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, who had rushed from that position. The 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders was a Scottish regiment that fought on several fronts. A reading of the inscriptions engraved on the different sides of the base of this monument tells us this. Thus, this cross is dedicated to the glory of the battalion's glorious dead and to the memory of those who will never return. Its combat losses, throughout the war, amounted to 51 officers and 831 men and non-commissioned officers, including 105 wounded officers and 2,527 men and non-commissioned officers. Finally, a Celtic inscription reveals "it is good to have friends on the day of battle." Mobilized from August 4, 1914, to November 12, 1919, a period of five years and 100 days, the regiment fought from May 1, 1915, to November 11, 1918, in Belgium and France. Until 1918, the 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders belonged to the 51st Division; In 1915, it fought at Richebourg, Festubert and on Thiepval Ridge, which was to leave a sad memory for the British on 1 July 1916 (this is where the memorial to the missing now stands); in 1916, it fought at the Labyrinth, Vimy Ridge, Fourcaux Wood (High Wood), Beaumont-Hamel (there, therefore) and Courcelette; in 1917, it was Roclincourt, Arras, Roeux, Ypres and Cambrai. In 1918, the 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders fought as part of the 61st Division at Saint-Quentin, Holnon Wood, Villéveque, Nesle, Villers-Bretonneux and on the Lys; but also within the 15th division which distinguished itself at Soissons, at Buzancy and in the final advance which would lead to the armistice
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The largest Newfoundland memorial in Europe. 30 hectare site with preserved trenches
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The documentation at this location allows a precise picture of the events: the traces of the trenches, the craters and the course of the battle up to the German position.
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This park honors the brave soldiers of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment who fought and died in the Battle of the Somme during the First World War. You can explore the preserved trenches, cemeteries and memorials that tell the story of their sacrifice and courage. You can also admire the caribou statue, emblem of the regiment, which stands on a mound overlooking the battlefield. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and entry is free. You can also take a guided tour or watch a film at the visitor center to learn more about the history of the site.
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Hawthorn Ridge Crater is a mine crater that was exploded during the First World War. This crater, located at the entrance to Beaumont-Hamel in Picardy, France, bears witness to the tragic events that unfolded on July 1, 1916, when British soldiers attacked German fortifications on the ridge. The mine exploded eight minutes too early, allowing the Germans to regain the upper hand and inflict heavy losses on the attackers. You can access the crater via a muddy path between two pastures, and admire the vegetation that has reclaimed the site. You can also learn about the history of the battle and the second explosion which took place on November 13, 1916. The crater is part of a wider network of memorials and cemeteries which commemorate the soldiers who fell on the Somme.
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The Newfoundland Memorial Park in France. This memorial park is dedicated to the Newfoundland soldiers who fought and died in the First World War, particularly during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. You can walk along the preserved trenches, see the bronze caribou statue which symbolizes the Newfoundland Regiment, and learn more about the war and its impact on the people of Newfoundland. The park also offers free guided tours in French and English by student guides. You will be moved by the stories of courage and sacrifice that this park commemorates.
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Fairly well-preserved and emblematic monument of the region
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Pretty village which deserves that one lingers there in particular for its belfry.
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The Authie region is rich in history. You can explore significant World War I memorials such as the Newfoundland Memorial, a 30-hectare site with preserved trenches and cemeteries, and the Scottish Divisions Memorial at the Sunken Lane, a Celtic cross commemorating Scottish regiments. Another notable site is Hawthorn Ridge Crater, a mine crater from the Battle of the Somme. Beyond WWI, the medieval commune of Auxi-le-Château features ruins of a 12th-century fortress and the 16th-century Église Saint-Martin. In the Authie commune of Calvados, you'll find the 11th-century Église Saint-Vigor and a Monument aux Canadiens.
Yes, the Lucheux Belfry is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France. Additionally, the remarkable 13th-century Gothic-style Amiens Cathedral, located about 28 km southwest of Authie, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Authie River Valley offers diverse natural beauty. The wild Authie Bay, located between Fort-Mahon-Plage and Berck, is known for its vast dune massifs, salt marshes, and rich biodiversity. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing seals. The valley itself features green landscapes, from wooded upper areas to steep-sided middle sections with spinneys and marshes. You can also explore the Forêt d'Hesdin and the Réserve naturelle de l'Étang Saint-Ladre.
The Authie Bay is an ideal location for birdwatching and observing seals. At low tide, you can often spot harbor and grey seals. Guided nature walks are available to help you explore its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Yes, hiking is popular throughout the Authie Valley. You'll find marked trails around Auxi-le-Château, and guided walks are available in Authie Bay. For more structured routes, you can explore options like the 'Running loop from Authieule' or 'Les Terres Franches loop from Arquèves' which are part of the Running Trails around Authie guide.
The region offers various cycling opportunities. For touring bicycles, routes like the 'Lucheux Castle loop from Amplier' or 'Marais des Bœufs – Towpath loop from Pas-en-Artois' are available in the Cycling around Authie guide. Road cyclists can find routes such as the 'Doullens Belfry – Lucheux Belfry loop from Pas-en-Artois' in the Road Cycling Routes around Authie guide.
Many attractions cater to families. The Lucheux Belfry and its medieval village are considered family-friendly. Nature walks in Authie Bay offer educational experiences, and several remarkable gardens like Les Jardins de Sericourt and Valloires Gardens provide pleasant outings for all ages.
The Authie region is enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the gardens, with pleasant weather for nature walks in Authie Bay. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can be peaceful for historical site visits, though some outdoor activities might be limited by weather.
Visitors are deeply moved by the preserved trenches, cemeteries, and memorials at sites like the Newfoundland Memorial. They appreciate the detailed documentation and the opportunity to understand the events of the Battle of the Somme. The stories of courage and sacrifice commemorated at these sites, often enhanced by guided tours, leave a lasting impression.
Yes, the Authie Valley offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The Authie River is known for its high-quality water, which is ideal for fish like trout and salmon, making it a good spot for anglers. Canoeing is also available, allowing you to experience the river's serene environment.
Yes, several remarkable gardens are located near the Authie Valley. These include Les Jardins de Sericourt (23 km from Authie), Les Jardins de Maizicourt (27 km), and the Valloires Gardens at Argoules, which span 8 hectares and extend to the river. Le Jardin des Lianes is another beautiful option.
Lucheux is a charming village notable for its medieval architecture. It is unique in Picardy for retaining the three symbolic buildings of French medieval society: a castle, a church, and its Belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a great place to explore history and architecture.


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