Things to do

Surrounded by history, No.fifty6 is the perfect base from which to explore the region of Picardy and the Somme. 

THE SOMME BATTLE EXPERIENCE – WALK WITH ME.
Whether you’ve been to the Somme before or visiting for the first time, David and Julie offer a battlefield experience like no other.  Don’t expect a dry, old history lesson here.  Their passion and knowledge of WW1 history is brought to life as they take you through a fully immersive, emotional journey and sensory experience.

Whether you’re interested in tracking down family ties or simply interested in the history, your hosts will personalise your experience with real, individual stories and accounts of life as a soldier in 1916.

A SLICE OF FRENCH LIFE
From coffee to cognac, painting to photography, shopping to people watching, the nearby towns offer a taste of French life at its best.

  • Take a coffee in Albert Square and marvel at the Basilica
  • Fill your suitcase with gifts from the Christmas markets in Arras and Amiens
  • Enjoy the beautiful countryside and quietly watch the native wildlife
  • Go on a steam train at Le p'tit train de la Haute Somme
  • Experience the big town atmosphere on a day out to Lille or Paris
  • Enjoy fine French dining at one of many wonderful restaurants
  • At the end of the day, relax with interesting people in the warm, candle lit lounge at No.fifty6

We are happy to recommend places to visit and restaurants to eat at in the evenings.  If you would like any further information, please contact us.

29th February 2024

Often February is a bridge between winter and spring  but this February has had it’s wild moments  - it has felt like the month has a life of its own, contrary, exerting authority over the weather. We have had stormy days, high winds, a lot of rain and very few blue-sky days with a chill still very much in the air. While our spring flowers are beginning to poke their heads above the soil, they are not yet brave enough to come out fully and expose their Spring glory.  Walks out have meant coats, boots, gloves, hats and a dogged determination. A trait which our loyal customers have had and it has been lovely to have them here exploring the battlefields and sharing stories. In return for braving the elements in February you get to share the battlefields in their pared back beauty. No high crop to spoil the view, nature and wildlife around you, silence, no footfall  other than your own, and of course the unique history can truly envelope you, giving up its secrets.

There has been a lot keeping us busy this month as well as finding time to go out and explore and discover new stories. Living on The Somme, we never get bored.

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Well what a great few days with good company and lively conversation. Some great remembrance stories along the way.… https://t.co/aklmgGvjxU

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