North Pas de Calais
The region of North Pas de Calais can be strangely familiar to the British, whilst at the same time offering a culture and way of life that is nothing like home. The port of Calais is a mere 21 miles away from Dover, so it’s no surprise that the climate is very similar to the south east of England – and you’re sure to bump into one or two of your countrymen on your trip! The locals also love beer much more than wine, but the similarities probably end there. A distinctly French café lifestyle can be enjoyed across the region, with mouth-watering dishes such as Coq de biere (chicken cooked in beer) and Carbonne Flamande (also cooked in beer!).
Places to go in North Pas de Calais
When you arrive in the port of Calais, why not consider staying for a while rather than zipping through en-route from the ferry. The town itself offers a great deal to do whether you’re staying for a couple of weeks or just a couple of days. Superb beaches and plenty of shopping, together with a good dose of history make this a superb family-friendly town. The historic city of Lille – the regional capital – offers a bigger city feel, with a whole host of activities including museums, a zoo and a multitude of historic buildings. Visit Boulogne with its UNESCO-listed Belfry and multi-national take on food (which other French town serves Welsh rarebit?). Dunkirk and Cambrai deliver fascinating military history, while Saint Omer’s 14th Century cathedral is well worth a look. Outside the towns, three natural parks ensure you get to relax in green, forested landscapes that offer lots to do.
Our Top Picks in North Pas de Calais
We want you to enjoy the best that North Pas de Calais has to offer and so here's a selection of our favourite things to see and do;
La Coupole
From medieval wars with the English, to the final demise of Napoleon Bonaparte and heavy fighting in two world wars, the North Pas de Calais region is no stranger to war. One of the most fascinating museums on World War Two is that of La Coupole, the site where Hitler stored, prepared and launched his V2 rockets – the ones that aimed to sweep Old London Town from the map. As well as absorbing facts about the V2, the Centre also expands on the German occupation of France of 1940-45. You’re meant to be able to see it all in 2 and half hours – but we think you’ll be there much longer!
Lille Zoo
The notion of this zoo being one of the best around is not at all influenced by the fact that it is free – honest! But such is the scale and quality of the enclosures – not to mention the variety of animals – you’ll be constantly amazed that it didn’t cost a single cent.
Beaches of North Pas de Calais
The outdoors is one of the biggest draws of North Pas de Calais, both inland and by the sea. The beaches along this coast have not missed the attention of many thousands of tourists either – but fear not, such is the scale of these beaches, there is always plenty of room to run, play frisbie, cricket – and build sand castles as large as you want!
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