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Monument · Waterloo, Brabante Valão
Ferme d'Hougoumont
Fortified farm that the allies defended throughout the day of the Battle of Waterloo. Restored, it houses a museum with a multimedia show and a chapel that survived the fire.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Ferme d'Hougoumont
The Ferme d'Hougoumont is a walled farm on the right flank of Wellington's allied line in Braine-l'Alleud. On 18 June 1815 it was defended by the British Guard and by German and Dutch troops against French attacks that lasted much of the afternoon.
The most remembered episode is the shutting of the north gate: French soldiers even entered the courtyard, and a group of defenders managed to close the door, trapping the attackers. Wellington later wrote that the success of the battle depended on the closing of Hougoumont's gates.
Napoleon ordered the farm to be bombarded, and the main house caught fire. The small chapel survived, with a wooden crucifix left standing.
Restored for the battle's bicentenary, the farm has exhibition rooms, a sound-and-light show about the defence and a tearoom. It is the site on the field that best preserves the period appearance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one to one and a half hours, including the multimedia show.
Best time
Right after the Mémorial 1815, on the same day. On dry days from April to October you can walk back across the field to the Butte du Lion.
How to get there
An electric minibus runs from the Mémorial 1815 to the farm, about 1.5 km. By car there is parking beside it. There is no direct public transport to the farm gate.
Tip
Notice the north gate and the chapel's crucifix, which withstood the fire. Admission is separate from the Mémorial or included in the Pass 1815: check before buying. Sturdy footwear helps on the dirt paths.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ferme d'Hougoumont
Why was Hougoumont important in the battle?
The farm protected Wellington's right flank. The allies defended it all day, and the closing of the north gate prevented the French from taking it.
How do you get from the Mémorial 1815 to Hougoumont?
An electric minibus runs the roughly 1.5 km route. It is also possible to walk across the battlefield.