Attractions and Places To See around Remilly-Wirquin - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Remilly-Wirquin include a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. This small commune in Pas-de-Calais, France, serves as a gateway to diverse points of interest in the surrounding region. Visitors can explore significant historical centers, amusement parks, and regional natural parks within a short distance. The area offers a variety of experiences, from ancient ruins to modern family activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Remilly-Wirquin
- The most popular attractions is Boat Lift of Fontinettes, a man-made monument that is a historic boat lift in Arques, France. It is the only remaining boat lift in France, built to connect the Lys River with the Aa, and offers insight into France's industrial history.
- Another must-see spot is Saint-Omer Cathedral, a religious building with impressive dimensions and historical significance. This cathedral features a 50 m high facade tower, 15th-century tombstones, and a 13th-century statue of Notre-Dame des Miracles.
- Visitors also love Ruin of St Martin's church, the remains of a Benedictine monastery in Saint-Omer. These ruins, classified as a historical monument in 1840, provide a look into medieval French history.
- Remilly-Wirquin is known for its historical sites, cultural landmarks, and unique engineering marvels. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, ranging from ancient ruins to significant religious buildings.
- The attractions around Remilly-Wirquin are appreciated by the komoot community, with 21 photos and 160 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Saint-Omer station
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In 1904, a new, monumental station building was inaugurated, designed by the architect Clément Ligny. This building, with its neoclassical architecture, was built with high-quality materials such as blue stone from Soignies and white stone from Creil. The design reflects the grandeur of a 17th-century castle, complete with symmetrical pavilions and decorative elements such as triglyphs and pediments.
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Saint-Omer Cathedral
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Boat Lift of Fontinettes
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Ruin of St Martin's church
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Walloon Jesuit Chapel
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Tips from the Community
After being closed for several years, the Saint-Omer train station has been given a facelift. The new, completely renovated building is dedicated to travelers, of course, but also to artists, craftspeople, entrepreneurs… La Station isn't just a station; it's "a space for innovation with a station inside." (c) https://nl.tourisme-saintomer.com/verwonderend/erfgoed-wonderen/meesterwerken-bewonderen/het-station-een-station-en-een-plaats-voor-innovatie/
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Worth seeing small boat lift.
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ship lift from 1888 can be visited as a museum, see www.ascenseurabataux.com with interesting audio tour
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Located in Saint-Omer, France, the Gare de Saint-Omer has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The first version of the station opened on September 1, 1848, as part of the railway line from Lille to Calais. The original building was modest and located outside the city walls, between the Porte de Lyzel and the Porte du Haut-Pont. In 1904, a new, monumental station building was inaugurated, designed by the architect Clément Ligny. This building, with its neoclassical architecture, was built with high-quality materials such as blue stone from Soignies and white stone from Creil. The design reflects the grandeur of a 17th-century castle, complete with symmetrical pavilions and decorative elements such as triglyphs and pediments.
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The brick façade with layers of white natural stone is five stories high and decorated with sculptures. The layout of the ambulatory and the window design refer to the Gothic style. The church was designed by Du Blocq, a Jesuit from Mons, and completed in 1629. It is notable for its high interior, the volutes on either side of the nave, and the narrow square towers on either side of the choir, a Tournai tradition. The chapel is home to the Centre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (CIAP) du Pays d'Art et d'Histoire de Saint-Omer
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The Ruines de l’Abbaye Saint-Bertin are the remains of a Benedictine monastery in Saint-Omer, France. The monastery was founded in the 7th century by the Bishop of Thérouanne under the name Abbaye de Sithiu. The ruins of this monastery are located in Saint-Omer, Rue des Ruines Saint-Bertin. They were classified as a historical monument in 1840. The buildings are now in ruins, but are open to the public. The abbey was originally dedicated to Saint Peter and later to Saint Bertin. It was one of the three most powerful abbeys in the north of the kingdom. The monastery was surrounded by a wall and bordered the rivers Aa and Haute-Meldick. It consisted of three parts: the regular places, the peripheral districts and the outbuildings. The abbey church was located at the heart of the monastery and all the buildings were organized around it. The monastery also had a cloister, refectory, parlour, celler, chauffoir and kitchens. The ruins of the abbey offer a fascinating insight into the medieval history of France and are a popular tourist attraction.
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This cathedral, the former "Cloître Notre-Dame" of the canons, is the most beautiful religious building in the region. The shape and dimensions are impressive. The choir dates from 1200, the transept from the 13th century, the nave from the 14th-15th century. The 50 m high facade tower is decorated with vertical blind arches and crowned with watchtowers (15th century). On the middle buttress of the southern portal there is a statue of the Virgin Mary (14th century), and on the tympanum a Last Judgement with very few chosen ones. In the corner next to the choir there is an octagonal Romanesque tower.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Remilly-Wirquin?
The area around Remilly-Wirquin is rich in history. You can visit the significant Saint-Omer Cathedral, known for its impressive dimensions and 13th-century statue of Notre-Dame des Miracles. Also, explore the Ruin of St Martin's church, which are the remains of a Benedictine monastery in Saint-Omer, classified as a historical monument. Further afield, consider Boat Lift of Fontinettes, a unique example of hydraulic engineering and France's only remaining boat lift, offering insight into industrial history.
Are there any natural parks or gardens to visit in the area?
Yes, for nature lovers, the De Saint-Omer Public Garden offers a pleasant natural escape. Additionally, parts of the vast Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale are accessible near Surques, providing significant natural scenery and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. You can also experience the scenic nature along the Chemin de fer touristique de la vallée de l'Aa.
What family-friendly attractions are available around Remilly-Wirquin?
Families have several options. Boat Lift of Fontinettes is categorized as family-friendly and offers an interesting historical and engineering experience. Dennlys Parc, an amusement park in Dennebrœucq, is a popular choice for families. For an active outing, try Le Rando-Rail, Trotti-Trail, du Pays de Lumbres in Nielles-les-Bléquin, which offers rail-biking and scooter trails. Nausicaá - Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer is also a major attraction for those interested in marine life, though it's a bit further.
Can I find outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near Remilly-Wirquin?
Absolutely! The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Tour of the Audomarois Trail' or the 'Suspension bridge over the Aa – Old Aa Lock loop from Esquerdes'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Greenway along the Aa – Greenway along the Aa River loop from Saint-Omer'. Mountain biking enthusiasts have trails like the 'Pidou Mill – Saint-Omer Valley loop from Pihem'. You can find more details and routes on the hiking guide, cycling guide, and MTB trails guide for the area.
What unique engineering marvels are there to see?
The most prominent engineering marvel is the Boat Lift of Fontinettes in Arques. It's the only remaining boat lift in France, built between 1881 and 1887 to connect the Lys River with the Aa. This hydraulic engineering feat demonstrates the principles of communicating vessels and Archimedes' law, offering a fascinating glimpse into France's industrial past.
Are there any religious landmarks worth visiting?
Yes, the Saint-Omer Cathedral is a significant religious building with impressive architecture and historical artifacts, including a 13th-century statue of Notre-Dame des Miracles. Another notable site is the Walloon Jesuit Chapel, designed by Du Blocq and completed in 1629, known for its high interior and unique brick façade with natural stone layers.
How can I experience the local history related to World War II?
To delve into World War II history, a visit to La Coupole Centre D'histoire in Helfaut is highly recommended. This significant historical center and museum provides deep insights into the period and its impact on the region.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Remilly-Wirquin?
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins and significant religious buildings to discovering unique engineering marvels. The komoot community has shared 21 photos and given 160 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and historical depth of sites like the Boat Lift of Fontinettes and Saint-Omer Cathedral.
Are there any towns with historical charm nearby?
Yes, the fortified town of Montreuil-sur-Mer, about 36 km away, offers a charming historic center perfect for exploration. Boulogne-sur-Mer, approximately 39 km distant, is another excellent option, featuring an old town with ramparts, a castle, and ancient streets.
What is the best way to get around to these attractions?
Given that many attractions are in the surrounding areas and not directly within Remilly-Wirquin, having a car is generally the most convenient way to explore. This allows flexibility to visit sites like Dennlys Parc, La Coupole, and the various historical sites in Saint-Omer. Public transport options may exist for larger towns like Saint-Omer, where the Saint-Omer station serves as a hub.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
The Saint-Omer station is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering modern facilities for travelers. For other attractions, it's advisable to check their specific accessibility information directly, as historical sites may have varying levels of access.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the natural areas?
In natural areas like the Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale, you can expect to find diverse wildlife typical of marshlands and coastal regions. This includes various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life. The specific species will depend on the season and habitat within the park.
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