Groningen: Battle Field Tour

The Groningen Battlefield Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s wartime history. Led by knowledgeable guide Joel Stoppels, this 2-hour experience takes visitors through the pivotal events of April 1945, when Canadian forces battled to liberate the city. Along the way, guests will encounter authentic artifacts and historic photographs, bringing the past to life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious to explore the area’s rich heritage, this tour promises an immersive and educational adventure. With customizable options for groups, the Groningen Battlefield Tour is a must-do activity for those seeking to uncover the untold stories that shaped this resilient community.

Good To Know

• A guided 2-hour tour of the Groningen battlefield, led by an expert guide and covering the key locations and events of the 1945 liberation battle.

• The tour is priced at $158.59 per group (up to 25 participants) and is available in Dutch and English.

• Highlights include authentic photos, objects, and detailed narratives from the battlefield, as well as the route taken by Canadian forces.

• The tour is suitable for history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the battle, but may not be accessible for individuals with mobility issues.

• Customized tours are available for larger groups, schools, clubs, and companies, with a focus on personal stories, reenactments, and exclusive access to historical materials.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Groningen Battlefield Tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the pivotal events of the city’s liberation in 1945.

Priced at $158.59 per group of up to 25 participants, the 2-hour tour is led by expert guide Joel Stoppels, a member of the International Guild of Battlefield Guides.

Conducted in Dutch and English, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour covers the 4-day battle, its key figures, and the extensive damage to the city, bringing history to life through authentic photos, objects, and visible war remnants.

Historical Context

On April 13, 1945, the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division liberated the city of Groningen after four days of intense fighting. The German forces were led by Johannes Blaskowitz, who faced a determined assault by the Canadian troops. The battle resulted in significant damage, with over 270 buildings destroyed and casualties including 43 Canadian soldiers and 110 civilians.

Date	Duration	German Commander	Impact
April 13, 1945	4 days	Johannes Blaskowitz	43 Canadian soldiers killed, 110 civilians killed, 270 buildings destroyed

This pivotal moment marked the liberation of Groningen and the end of the German occupation in the region.

Tour Highlights

The Groningen Battlefield Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s history, following the path of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division‘s advance in April 1945.

The tour starts at the Grote Markt, where you will learn about the initial stages of the battle. The route then leads to the Zuiderdiep and Grote Markt, where guests will discover the visible war damage and view authentic photos and objects from 1945.

The tour culminates at the former State Archives in Sint Jansstraat, providing a comprehensive understanding of the four-day battle that liberated Groningen.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide, Joël Stoppels, brings the historical events to life with detailed maps and captivating narratives.

Route and Landmarks

The tour begins at the Grote Markt, the central square in Groningen.

From there, you will follow the path the Canadian forces took as they advanced through the city. The route leads to the Zuiderdiep, a major street that saw intense fighting.

Along the way, the guide will point out visible signs of the battle, including damaged buildings.

The tour culminates at the former State Archives in Sint Jansstraat, where the Canadian forces finally secured the liberation of Groningen.

Throughout the tour, the guide will present authentic photos and objects from 1945, as well as detailed maps to help bring the historic events to life.

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Groups and Customization

Private and standard tours are available for groups of 30 to 45 people. The tours can be scheduled year-round, with flexible durations to accommodate the group’s needs.

Whether visiting as a school, sports club, or company, the Groningen Battlefield Tour offers an informative and memorable experience. The guides work closely with each group to customize the itinerary and highlight the most relevant aspects of the battle.

This ensures the tour aligns with the group’s interests and educational objectives. The tours cater to a wide range of audiences, from history enthusiasts to those seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s wartime past.

Accessibility Considerations

Although the Groningen Battlefield Tour offers a unique and immersive historical experience, it may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments.

The tour requires walking through urban areas with uneven terrain, and some sites may have limited accessibility. Visitors should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly, and those with physical limitations may find it challenging to fully participate.

The tour company recommends that guests with concerns about accessibility contact them in advance to discuss any special needs or accommodations.

Meeting Point and Policies

Visitors can find the meeting point for the Groningen Battlefield Tour at the De Martinitoren, a historic church tower in the city center. Google Maps provides directions to this convenient location.

Tour participants should note that the use of alcohol, drugs, and audio recording devices is prohibited during the tour. The guides aim to create an informative and immersive experience, so visitors are asked to respect these policies.

Additional Tour Offerings

The tour organizers offer a range of additional services to cater to diverse group needs. Beyond the standard battlefield tour, they organize specialized experiences for schools, sports clubs, companies, and even the Defense community.

These customized tours prioritize informative and memorable encounters, ensuring participants leave with a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of the region.

The tour offerings include:

1. Tailored programs that explore the personal stories and perspectives of those who lived through the events.
2. Immersive reenactments that bring the battle to life, allowing attendees to better understand the challenges faced by the combatants.
3. Exclusive access to archival materials and artifacts, providing a unique window into the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t specify any age restrictions. It’s suitable for most participants, though it may not be appropriate for those with mobility impairments. The organizers can accommodate a range of group sizes and customize the tour as needed.

What Is the Dress Code Recommended for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants should dress for an outdoor activity that may involve some walking on uneven terrain.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Photos are permitted during the tour, though audio recording devices are prohibited. Tour participants are encouraged to capture the historical sites and artifacts presented by the guide to enhance their experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tours can be customized to extend the duration. According to the information, the tours are flexible and can be scheduled year-round with a customizable duration to meet the group’s needs.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Any Recommendations for Post-Tour Activities?

The tour guides provide recommendations for post-tour activities, such as visiting local museums, restaurants, or historic sites in Groningen that complement the battlefield tour and further enhance the overall educational and cultural experience.

The Sum Up

The Groningen Battlefield Tour offers a compelling and informative experience for those interested in exploring the region’s history. Led by expert Joel Stoppels, the tour provides an immersive and educational journey through the significant events of April 13, 1945. Suitable for groups of up to 25, the tour is customizable and available year-round, making it an accessible and engaging option for those seeking to learn more about the impact of war in the area.

You can check if your dates are available here: