The Architect and the Lion
The king’s architect, Charles Vander Straeten, reveals the secrets behind the creation and history of the most iconic monument on the battlefield.
Activities
Experience History Differently
From April to the end of October, the Waterloo Battlefield Estate offers immersive and enriching activities for all visitors. These activities take place on weekends, public holidays, and during school holidays, providing an original and educational way to discover the history of 1815.
All of these activities are included in the entrance ticket.
Discover our activities
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To the Sound of Muskets and Drums
An immersive activity featuring musket firing, demonstrations and explanations about the weapons used at the time. Also discover the essential role of drums and music as real means of communication and coordination on the battlefield.
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Camp Life
Discover the daily life of soldiers in their camps: how they prepared, marched, and manoeuvred. Animators dressed in period uniforms guide visitors through various activities and explain tactics, formations, and life under canvas, offering a fully immersive experience at the foot of the Lion’s Mound and at Hougoumont Farm.
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Cannon Firing Demonstration
Attend a cannon firing demonstration and learn about the role of artillery during the battle. Our passionate animators explain how artillery pieces worked and perform impressive blank firing demonstrations, recreating the powerful sounds and atmosphere of historical combat.
Surgery Under the Empire
Step into the fascinating world of Napoleonic military medicine. Discover how medical services were organized, how surgeons operated, and how wounded soldiers were treated in difficult conditions after the fighting.
Recruitment into the British Army (Hougoumont)
Attention! His Majesty’s recruiting sergeant is roaming around Hougoumont Farm, and he is never short of ideas when it comes to swelling the regiment’s ranks! A dive into the discipline and rigour of the redcoats.
Activity at Hougoumont
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Guided Museum Tours
From April to the end of October (excluding weekends, public holidays, and school holidays), guided tours of the Memorial
or of the Panorama and the Lion’s Mound are organized, starting from the battlefield model. These tours allow visitors to explore the site while discovering some of the most captivating historical anecdotes and details.
