Vimy Ridge
The Battle of Vimy Ridge took place between 9-12 April 1917 and was part of the larger “Battle of Arras”. The offensive was primarily a Canadian action although British soldiers were also involved. The objective of the Canadians was to take the high ground along an escarpment at the northernmost part of the Arras offensive. Canadian forces, supported by a creeping artillery barrage, captured most of the ridge during the first day of the attack. By 12th April, all the objectives had been taken. The Canadians suffered around 10,000 casualties and 4 Victoria Crosses were awarded.
Commemoration
The Battle of Vimy Ridge was the first time that all four Canadian Divisions drawn from all parts of the country had fought together. The image of national unity and achievement is what gave the Battle of Vimy Ridge its significance to Canada.
The memorial at Vimy Ridge is the largest and principle overseas war memorial to Canadian forces. It is located on the highest point on Vimy Ridge. France granted Canada perpetual use of a section of Vimy Ridge in 1922 and today a 250 acre of the battlefield is preserved as a memorial park that surrounds the monument. The site is covered with wartime trenches, craters and unexploded munitions and is largely closed off to the general public. A section of the trenches is accessible to visitors.
Escorted Tours
Leger Holidays are the UK’s leading Battlefield Tours operator. All their tours are escorted by a Specialist Battlefields Guide. Full information about their current tours, availability and prices can be found on their website.
