La Coupole
A visit to this V2 rocket base will capture the attention of your pupils and really focus their minds on wartime life. The huge bunker was built in 1943-1944 to launch the deadly V2 rockets to London, and now houses important exhibitions:
The site itself is huge and really imposing, a reminder of the Nazi might and deadly intent. And the very modern interactive exhibition uses film, headsets and reconstructions to stimulate pupils’ interest. Worksheets and study materials are available for your pupils, and the whole exhibition is in English.
La Coupole is situated in St. Omer, only 45 minutes’ drive from Calais, and is a convenient venue for a one-day excursion, or you can plan a longer tour to include further History or French visits.
Other activities can complement your visit:
On 1st April 2010, La Coupole is re-opening the refurbished V3 Secret Rocket Base at Mimoyecques. SItuated 5 miles from the coast and 90 miles from London, this fortress was one of Hitler’s vengeance weapons and contained the V3 , a fixed weapon ’supergun’ aimed at London. The museum houses an exhibition on the actions of the famous 617 squadron RAF Bomber Command and its Wing Commander, Leonard Cheshire.
TYPICAL ITINERARY FOR A ONE DAY VISIT
Leave School early morning and drive to Folkestone for your Eurotunnel crossing at 09 00. Arrive in France at 10 30 and continue to St. Omer, arriving at 11 30. Visit La Coupole’s various exhibitions with a break for your packed lunch.
At 15 00 you can leave the site and visit another historic venue or explore the attractive town of St. Omer. Book a restaurant evening meal or visit a coastal shopping centre for a snack and local purchases. Leave France at 19 00 and continue your journey to School to arrive during the evening.
Schools further from Kent will have a tailor-made itinerary to give you the best schedule for your visit. You can also travel to France during the evening, stay overnight then spend the next day visiting La Coupole. Ask for details.
TYPICAL ITINERARY FOR A TWO DAY VISIT
Day One
Leave School early and drive to Folkestone for a Eurotunnel crossing at 10 00. Arrive in France at 10 30 and continue to St. Omer, to arrive at 12 30. Picnic lunch break then an afternoon visit to La Coupole’s exhibitions. Drive to your hotel for check-in and an evening meal. Evening on the beach, bowling or relaxing in your hotel.
Day Two
Shopping in a traditional French market, then visit Etaples military cemetery near Le Touquet. Or drive to Vimy Ridge to see the tunnels and memorials or to Arras to see the lovely town square and explore the wartime tunnels. Then return by coach to Calais for an evening meal, Channel crossing and evening travel to School.
ACCOMODATION
Auberge de Jeunesse, Calais
This accommodation remains popular with school groups, so book early! Each twin bedroom shares en-suite shower and WC with one adjoining room. Your party can relax in the pleasant dining room, large foyer and small staff bar. It’s a good base for exploring the region and is convenient for tours to La Coupole and the Somme.
Cottage des Dunes
This excellent youth centre in Berck-Plage is a comfortable and friendly base. Larger parties are welcome. Student rooms are four-bedded, and the centre has a good range of meeting and leisure rooms. Centrally positioned in a quiet location, Cottage des Dunes is within easy walking distance of town and beach.
Poppies d’Albert School Hotel, Albert
This brand new hotel is ideally situated for a tour including the Somme region. Your group will have sole occupancy in one of three annexes, with large, simple en-suite bedrooms, meeting rooms for evenings and free internet access. Ideal accommodation for larger groups.
Your itinerary is tailor-made to suit your group. Get the most out of your visit with carefully-planned visits and excursions.
Prices for a day visit to La Coupole
available upon request
For a two-day visit
available upon request