The lovely town of Arras has two central squares, which were built over 800 years ago. These squares are surrounding by distinctive houses and shops which are were built from local white stone in the 17 & 18 centuries. Beneath the squares lies a vast network of underground passages known as ‘Les Boves’ The town is also famous for the production of tapestry and also for a particular well known porcelain design known as bleu d’Arras. The leader of the French terror movement in the French Revolution Robespierre was also born in the town.

During the first world war, over 80% of the town was destroyed, although much was rebuilt to replicate the original features.

From Arras the road to Vimy Ridge is dotted with many British, German and French Cemeteries. Part of the original trenches and tunnels have been maintained and form part of the visitor centre, including the famous monument and forest, which was planted with one Canadian Pine tree for every solider killed in Europe during the first world war.

The Cote d’Opale is a stunning coastline of sandy beaches, dunes and imposing cliffs which run for 120 kms, which leads into the Cote De Picardie containing many more superb beaches and nature reserves. There is the chic resort of Le Touquet with its designer shops and boutiques, Berck sur Mer with its bustling beaches and Etaples with its famous daily fish market, to the quieter resorts of Merlimont and Hardelot, which are all within easy reach.

Throughout November and December, fairy lights illuminate colourful stalls in the various local Christmas Markets - just perfect for all your Christmas shopping and any extra-special, original gifts you might be looking for and most of them having extra activities including ice skating and visiting ‘Pere Noel’.