The caves of Naours - Naours

Brian D. C.

Visiting the underground tunnels of Naours is like stepping into a forgotten world beneath the surface of northern France. Carved out in the Middle Ages, this remarkable network of galleries served as a refuge for local populations during times of war and unrest—but surprisingly, not during the more recent global conflicts of the 20th century.

The underground city is vast, with over 300 rooms spread across nearly 2 kilometers of tunnels. As you walk through the dimly lit passageways, it’s easy to imagine the lives of those who once sought shelter here during raids and invasions centuries ago. The ingenuity of these early engineers is impressive: the tunnels include chapels, stables, wells, and ventilation shafts—an entire hidden village carved into the chalky rock.

Despite its strategic depth and size, the site was not used as a shelter during World War I or World War II. In fact, during WWI, the site became more of a curiosity than a refuge—thousands of soldiers, particularly from Australia and other parts of the British Commonwealth, visited and left their names etched into the walls, creating an extraordinary collection of graffiti that still exists today.

The visitor experience is both educational and atmospheric. Information panels and guided tours provide context about the origins of the tunnels, how they were used, and why they eventually fell out of use as a place of refuge. The story of the soldiers’ inscriptions adds a touching, human dimension to the historical narrative.

Overall, the Naours underground city is a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective on medieval life, wartime memory, and how spaces can evolve in meaning over centuries. It’s a must-see for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

Martyn D.

Full of history, great self guided tour and to have audio guide in many languages and that you can move at own pace around. Information about WW1/2 soldiers who visited the caves and left their marks is worth a visit on its own, great display and the soldiers treated with respect.

esther R.

We came here on a rainy day, as something to do with the kids out of the rain. It was a great afternoon out.
We all (age 5-adult) enjoyed the self guided tour, using individual audio handsets. It was really interesting and kept our 5 year old entertained for well over an hour.
We didn't visit any other parts of the site (I believe there was also mini golf and tree climbing as well as listened bar).
This was a really great family afternoon out.

Jes S.

Nice place - can be visited by persons able to walk up and down stairs, and who are not scared of narrow spaces - only very few places on the tour and not very narrow ☺️👍.
Interesting story over centuries.
Spent approximately 1 hour on this tour with audio guide all for 11 € oct 2024.

marsh G.

Nice place to visit on a hot day with nice cool caves. The cave have an interesting story to tell and it’s well told.
Like all attractions it wins or loses by the staff and this place is a win. Friendly and welcoming and you can have a snack and beer while you’re there.

Sarah M.

Wow!!! What a place to see! Very interesting and moving...great place for anyone! Adventurous and they have electronic tour guides in English! Well worth £13 Euros...The restaurant would have been nice but it was packed and we couldn't order food due to a big reservation, but you can take picnic food. The stories of the WW1 veterans were incredible they made me cry 🙏💛😭

Mike C.

Very interesting, but take your own torches. Luckily I always have a torch.
We didn't see another soul when we visited, apart from a low flying bat!
Interesting place but not enough info on its earlier history, we felt. You basically follow the numbers and you get a recorder you just press the number of each station as you arrive. There is one section towards the end that could be mildly claustrophobic for some, but it's only about 2m section.
Café ok, souvenir shop a bit lacking.

Michelle F.

The pictures do not do this place justice. We just loved being immersed in history, listening to the audio descriptions as we explored the cave. The surrounding park and garden is beautiful. Well worth a trip!