The Lochnagar Crater was created by a large mine detonated beneath the German front line by the British Army’s 179th Tunnelling Company Royal Engineers, at 7:28am on July 1st, 1916. The explosion marked the beginning of the Battle of the Somme and was the largest of 19 mines, placed beneath the German front line to assist the British infantry advance. It is the largest man-made mine crater from the First World War on the Western Front.
and honouring the men and women of all nations who have suffered in war – and those who suffer
still. Once the bloodiest square mile on the Western Front, it is now a hallowed place dedicated to
actively promoting Peace, Remembrance and Reconciliation.
strive to conserve this unique
site and honour all the men and
women who have suffered in
war – and those who suffer still.
Join us for the Armistice Day
Join us at Lochnagar on Armistice Day, 11th November, as we honour those who fell in the Great War and remember all who have suffered in conflict since. Through moving wreath-laying ceremonies and quiet reflection, we come together to mark this solemn day with hope for peace and unity.
Peace and Reconciliation
We remember all the men and women who were denied their future, never achieving their potential, with their hopes and dreams unrealised.
Commemorate
There are two annual remembrance ceremonies, in July and November. We always seek to involve the local community as well as welcoming visitors from around the world.
Plaque Team Update
Time for another note from the Plaque Team. With only a few new sponsorship requests in the winter months following... read more →
Monday October 21st, 2024
Flypast: WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust’s ‘Poems, Planes, and Flowers’ Tribute
We were approached last summer by Dick Forsythe from the WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust who told us about an interesting... read more →
Monday October 21st, 2024
The Friends’ Working Weekend 2024
The Working Weekend this year falls on the late May Bank Holiday, from Friday, May 24th to Monday, May 27th.... read more →
Wednesday March 13th, 2024
The Somme Battlefield Pipe Band
Anyone who has been at the Lochnagar Crater on July 1st will know of our deep appreciation and friendship with... read more →
Wednesday March 13th, 2024
Complicated work ahead on the walkway
Replacement of the walkway continues, and our excellent local builder, Arnaud Delescluse, has now completed the path up to the... read more →
Wednesday March 13th, 2024
Our ongoing appreciation to the maire and the welcoming people of ovillers-la-boisselle
We continue to have a wonderful and warm relationship between the Commune and all the Friends. Led by the especially... read more →
Wednesday March 13th, 2024