Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound
Walk the historic grounds where Napoleon met his final defeat, climb the iconic Lion's Mound, and immerse yourself in the Battle of Waterloo.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk the historic grounds where Napoleon met his final defeat, climb the iconic Lion's Mound, and immerse yourself in the Battle of Waterloo.
"Walking those grounds gives one a much better appreciation for how the day unfolded."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the battle's strategy and key moments. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lion's Mound
Braine-l'Alleud
Climb this iconic man-made hill for panoramic battlefield views and a symbolic lion statue.

Panorama of the Battle 1815
Visitor Center
Immerse yourself in the battle's chaos with this stunning 360-degree mural.

Memorial 1815 Museum
Visitor Center
Explore interactive exhibits detailing Napoleon's final defeat and its impact.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around the Battlefield
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the battle's strategy and key moments. :walking:
Check Bus Schedules
Public transport is available, but confirm return times to avoid getting stranded. :bus:
Don't Miss the Panorama
This 360-degree mural offers an incredible visual of the battle. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding of the battle's strategy and key moments. :walking:
Check Bus Schedules
Public transport is available, but confirm return times to avoid getting stranded. :bus:
Don't Miss the Panorama
This 360-degree mural offers an incredible visual of the battle. :art:
Visit the Wellington Museum
Learn about the Duke of Wellington and his role in the battle. :book:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the historical significance and immersive experience of the Waterloo battlefield, particularly the Lion's Mound and the Memorial 1815 Museum. The panoramic views and the opportunity to walk the grounds are frequently highlighted as profound aspects of the visit. Some find the public transport connections a bit challenging for return journeys.
"The visit to the Waterloo Battle site is a unique experience. The Lion's Mound is impressive and from the top there is a great view of all the battle field. Thinking about the battle from the top of the mound is quite shocking. Very recommended !"
Bert Bar
"There was a bit of a wait, but the ticket agent was helpful with the ticket purchase. The exhibition is impressive and monumental.
You have to be in shape for the Lion Hill itself, but the panorama from the top is stunning."
Janko Babszem
"We visited just the museum. If you go after 17:30 you can get splitted tickets for cheaper prices. The whole tickets are very expensive. The museum was nice, more focused on teaching the history more than showing items from the battle. Worth the visit for the splitted ticket."
Luca Riboldi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Waterloo battlefield from Brussels by taking a train to Braine-l'Alleud or Waterloo station, followed by a public bus (like line W). Some travelers recommend combining train and bus for ease. :train: :bus:
Yes, public buses connect to the battlefield site from nearby towns and train stations. It's advisable to check schedules in advance, especially for return journeys. :bus:
Absolutely! Many visitors treat Waterloo as a day trip from Brussels. The battlefield, museum, and Lion's Mound can be covered in a day, though some prefer to spend longer. :calendar:
Unfortunately, Uber and taxi services are not readily available for return trips from the battlefield. Planning your public transport or pre-booking a taxi is recommended. :taxi:
The battlefield is quite spread out. Walking is the most immersive way to experience it, but comfortable shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Memorial 1815 Museum, Panorama, and Lion's Mound can often be purchased online in advance or at the visitor center. Consider the 'Pass 1815' for access to multiple sites. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the Memorial 1815 Museum and Lion's Mound for the most up-to-date information. :clock:
While walking the grounds is free, access to the Memorial 1815 Museum, Panorama, and climbing the Lion's Mound typically requires a ticket. :moneybag:
Yes, you can usually purchase separate tickets for the Lion's Mound, though a combined ticket often offers better value. :lion:
Check for potential discounts for students, seniors, or families. The 'Pass 1815' can also be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple attractions. :discount:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Lion's Mound is a large, artificial hill built on the battlefield, topped with a lion statue. It commemorates where the Prince of Orange was wounded and offers fantastic views. :lion:
The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the Battle of Waterloo through interactive displays, artifacts, and historical context. :museum:
Yes, the 360-degree mural is highly recommended for its immersive depiction of the battle's intensity and scale. :art:
A minimum of 3-4 hours is recommended to see the main sites like the Lion's Mound and the museum. Some visitors spend a full day to explore more thoroughly. :clock:
Yes, walking the battlefield is a powerful experience that helps you appreciate the terrain and the events of the day. :walking:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are cafes and restaurants located near the visitor center and on the battlefield itself, offering meals and refreshments. :coffee:
Expect typical cafe fare like sandwiches, salads, and light meals, along with drinks. Some places also serve local Belgian specialties. :sandwich:
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas around the battlefield, offering a budget-friendly option. :apple:
While the battlefield cafes offer drinks, exploring the town of Waterloo or nearby Brussels will provide a wider selection of authentic Belgian beers. :beer:
Yes, there are bakeries in the town of Waterloo, particularly near the Wellington Museum, offering local pastries and bread. :croissant:
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of the Lion's Mound offers iconic panoramic shots of the battlefield. The Panorama 1815 itself is also a visually striking subject. :camera:
Drone usage may be restricted for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to check with the site management before flying a drone. :drone:
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for photography, especially for capturing the Lion's Mound against the landscape. :sunrise:
Photography rules can vary inside museums. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but check for specific signage. :iphone:
While not always scheduled, historical reenactments can offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Keep an eye on event calendars for special dates. :soldier:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited or busy. The open spaces of the battlefield are great for letting kids burn off energy, but ensure they stay within safe areas. The Panorama can be a visually stimulating experience for all ages. Planning for a half-day visit might be ideal to avoid overwhelming younger children.
🏛️ History Buffs & Napoleonic Era Enthusiasts
Don't miss the Panorama of the Battle for a visceral understanding of the fighting. Consider visiting during a reenactment if your schedule allows, as these events bring history to life in a spectacular way. Exploring the surrounding town of Waterloo can also reveal historical buildings and further context.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Public transport from Brussels is feasible, making it an accessible solo day trip. Engaging with guided tours can also be a good way to connect with other travelers and gain deeper insights. Be sure to have a reliable way to get back to your accommodation, as taxis are scarce.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Lion's Mound
Many visitors find the climb rewarding, not just for the view, but for the symbolic weight of standing on this monument. It's a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the historical significance of this pivotal moment in European history. The mound itself is a testament to the desire to commemorate and remember the events of June 18, 1815.
Understanding the Battle of Waterloo
Napoleon's final gamble to regain power ended here, leading to his abdication and exile. The battle's outcome reshaped the political landscape of Europe, ushering in a period of relative peace. The Memorial 1815 Museum and the Panorama of the Battle provide excellent insights into the strategies, key figures, and the sheer chaos of the day.
Travelers often emphasize the emotional impact of walking the grounds and imagining the events. The terrain itself, with its undulations and strategic points, becomes clearer when experienced firsthand. It's a place where history truly comes alive, offering a profound connection to a defining moment in world history.
Navigating the Battlefield and Visitor Experience
For those interested in the opposing commanders, the Wellington Museum in the town of Waterloo provides additional context about the Duke of Wellington. While the battlefield itself is vast, many visitors find that focusing on the key sites like the Lion's Mound, the museum, and the panorama provides a comprehensive experience. Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the grounds involves significant walking.
Getting to and from the battlefield requires some planning, especially regarding public transport. While buses are available, confirming return schedules is crucial. Many visitors recommend dedicating at least half a day, if not a full day, to fully appreciate the historical significance and the various attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit