Arras

The capital of the Artois region with a history of 20 centuries of civilisation, Arras offers further opportunities for learning about French history, citizenship & language during your French School Visit. Arras was on the western front line during WWI and suffered heavy shelling. Up to 80% was bombed, but fortunately it has been restored to its former glory.

Restored to former glory

Our guided walking tour takes in most of the main highlights above ground, including the Historic Town Hall, surrounded by 17th & 18th century Flemish Houses, the town’s Museum & Art Gallery – the Musee des Beaux-Arts – built on the site of a fine 18th century monastery, and the two main town squares, the Place des Heros & the Grand Place.

Explore underground

Underneath the square runs a labyrinth of tunnels carved into the chalk rock. Here the inhabitants of Arras used to store wine and food – and seek refuge in times of war. During WWI, right behind the Front Line, the town’s civilian population was evacuated, and its defending troops lived in tunnels under constant bombardment by enemy shelling.

Traditional French Market

Saturday mornings

No school French visit would be complete without a taste of real French life at a traditional French market. Held on Saturday mornings in the two main squares, students can learn about local produce, grasp French currency & language and get those important gifts for loved ones back in the UK.