Hougoumont Farm
Chemin du Goumont 1, Braine-l'Alleud, Wallonia, 1420
Hougoumont Farm was the scene of heavy fighting in the Battle of Waterloo. Today the farm’s bucolic setting is a popular historic attraction in Belgium, especially for people interested in the Napoleonic wars. The farm is one of seven sites to visit in the larger Domain of the Waterloo 1815 Battlefield, which includes a memorial, museum, and more.
The basics
Visit this historic farmhouse to immerse yourself in the landscape of Waterloo. A multimedia presentation and introduction to the four-day battle that led to Napoleon’s defeat aims to educate while bringing to fore the emotion of the time. Even two centuries later, you can see remnants from the battle, including the impact of musket balls in the walls. The grounds include the original chapel and some farm animals.
Many visitors plan at least half a day visiting the sites of the Waterloo battle, but it’s possible to fill a full day exploring them all. Carriage rides provide transportation to the farm from the Domain museum at certain times of the year. The Waterloo Pass 1815 includes admission to the farm, the museum, and other sites.
Things to know before you go
Hougoumont Farm is a must-visit landmark in Wallonia for families seeking educational opportunities and history buffs.
This historic site is not fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Two restaurants are available on-site, and a gift shop stocks souvenirs, local history books, and more.
Audio tours are available via your smartphone in nine languages.
How to get there
Hougoumont Farm is located about 20 minutes from Brussels in Belgium. Many visitors arrive by car, and the site offers ample free parking. This attraction also is easily accessible by public transportation: Take the Brussels-Charleroi line to Braine-l’Alleud train station to access the Waterloo Memorial site.
When to get there
The Waterloo site is open year-round, but prices and opening times vary based on season. High season at Hougoumont Farm is considered April through October, while low season is November through March. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while the summer season sees the most visitors at this historic landmark.
An exhibition on medical techniques
One of the most fascinating exhibits at Hougoumont Farm covers medical techniques from the time of the Napoleonic Wars. See a presentation of medical techniques from this era and learn about how surgery has evolved. The exhibit includes stories about how the wounded were rescued on the battlefield and what surgical techniques saved lives during the Battle of Waterloo.
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