Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound, Brussels - a large grassy hill with a statue on top of it
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Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound

4.3
·6k reviews·Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound, Brussels - a large grassy hill with a statue on top of it

Waterloo Battlefield and Lion’s Mound

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.3
(6k reviews)

"Walking those grounds gives one a much better appreciation for how the day unfolded."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lion's Mound

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

Panorama of the Battle 1815

Visitor Center

Immerse yourself in the battle's chaos with this stunning 360-degree mural.

Memorial 1815 Museum

Memorial 1815 Museum

Visitor Center

Explore interactive exhibits detailing Napoleon's final defeat and its impact.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and milder weather. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time, especially during peak tourist periods.

Getting Around the Battlefield

The Waterloo battlefield is extensive. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider the best transport options from Brussels. Public buses are available, but check schedules carefully for return trips.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Episode 1: The fall of Napoleon and his empire #Napoleon #Waterloo #History #Emperor #Strategy #Mistake #Arrogance #War #Battle #Advice #Generals #FrenchHistory #France #Europe #NapoleonBonaparte #MilitaryHistory #MilitaryStrategy #MilitaryTactics #Warfare #Battlefield #HistoryLesson #FamousBattle #Victory #Defeat #LessonsLearned #WarHistory #StrategySession #Commander #Leader #NapoleonQuotes #Na...
@the_conquerors1
93.8K likes • 1.1M views

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:

@history_alice
88.9K likes • 1.4M views
THE LION’S MOUND OF WATERLOO 🦁 @domainebataillewaterloo Erected between 1824 and 1826, the Lion’s Mound is the most widely recognised landmark of the Waterloo battlefield. Let’s explore its history and location set within the Belgian municipality of Braine-l’Alleud. At the request of the Dutch King, William I (1772-1843), the Mound was built on the alleged spot where his son, the young Prince o...
skyfly_be
146 likes • 1.8K views

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:

Waterloo City, is located south of Brussels, Belgium, is famous for Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815. The Lion’s Mound overlooks the battlefield, topped by a lion statue. The area features the Panorama of the Battle and the Memorial 1815 showcasing the historic event….(Please note there are no Uber/Taxi services available for return) #morocco #belgium #waterloocity #waterloo #brusselscity #casabla...
mr_traveler365
948 likes • 61K views

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

4.3
(6k reviews)

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

Immersive battlefield experience
Panoramic views from Lion's Mound
Informative museum exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited return transport options

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: Reddit+1

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: Reddit

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: Reddit

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: Instagram

The battlefield is quite spread out. Walking is the most immersive way to experience it, but comfortable shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

🎫 🎫 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: Reddit

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: Reddit

While walking the grounds is free, access to the Memorial 1815 Museum, Panorama, and climbing the Lion's Mound typically requires a ticket. :moneybag: Reddit

Yes, you can usually purchase separate tickets for the Lion's Mound, though a combined ticket often offers better value. :lion: Reddit

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: Reddit

🎫 🧭 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: Instagram+2

The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the Battle of Waterloo through interactive displays, artifacts, and historical context. :museum: Reddit

Yes, the 360-degree mural is highly recommended for its immersive depiction of the battle's intensity and scale. :art: Reddit

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: Reddit

Yes, walking the battlefield is a powerful experience that helps you appreciate the terrain and the events of the day. :walking: Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are cafes and restaurants located near the visitor center and on the battlefield itself, offering meals and refreshments. :coffee: Reddit

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: Reddit

While the battlefield cafes offer drinks, exploring the town of Waterloo or nearby Brussels will provide a wider selection of authentic Belgian beers. :beer: Reddit

Yes, there are bakeries in the town of Waterloo, particularly near the Wellington Museum, offering local pastries and bread. :croissant: Reddit

📸 📸 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: Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to check with the site management before flying a drone. :drone: Instagram

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

The Waterloo battlefield can be an engaging experience for families. The Lion's Mound offers a fun climb with a rewarding view, and kids often enjoy the novelty of the large lion statue. The Memorial 1815 Museum has interactive elements that can capture younger imaginations, making history more accessible. TikTok

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

For those passionate about the Napoleonic era, Waterloo is a pilgrimage site. Walking the actual battlefield is paramount, allowing you to trace troop movements and understand the tactical challenges. Reading accounts of the battle while on-site can be incredibly powerful. Reddit The Memorial 1815 Museum offers in-depth historical context, and the Wellington Museum provides a counterpoint from the Allied perspective. Reddit+1

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

Waterloo is a great destination for solo travelers, offering a rich historical experience that can be deeply personal. The Memorial 1815 Museum and Panorama are excellent for self-guided exploration, allowing you to absorb information at your own pace. Reddit+1 The Lion's Mound provides a moment of reflection with its expansive views. Instagram

Public transport from Brussels is feasible, making it an accessible solo day trip. Reddit+1 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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the Lion's Mound

The Lion's Mound is perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the Waterloo battlefield. Erected between 1824 and 1826, this massive artificial hill was commissioned by King William I of the Netherlands. It stands on the alleged spot where his son, the Prince of Orange, was wounded during the battle. Climbing the 226 steps to the summit offers a commanding, panoramic view of the entire battlefield, allowing visitors to grasp the scale of the conflict. The imposing lion statue atop the mound symbolizes the victory of the Allied forces. Instagram+2

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. Reddit

Understanding the Battle of Waterloo

The Battle of Waterloo, fought on June 18, 1815, marked the final defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte. It was a complex engagement involving French forces against a coalition of British-led Allied armies and Prussian forces. The battlefield, a rolling countryside near present-day Belgium, was the stage for intense fighting, with key locations like Hougoumont farm playing crucial roles. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit+1

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. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Battlefield and Visitor Experience

Visiting the Waterloo battlefield involves more than just seeing the Lion's Mound. The Memorial 1815 Museum is a modern, well-maintained facility that offers a deep dive into the battle's context and consequences. It's praised for its informative exhibits and engaging presentation. Reddit The Panorama of the Battle 1815 is another highlight, a massive circular painting that creates an immersive experience of the conflict. Reddit

For those interested in the opposing commanders, the Wellington Museum in the town of Waterloo provides additional context about the Duke of Wellington. Reddit 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. Reddit

Getting to and from the battlefield requires some planning, especially regarding public transport. While buses are available, confirming return schedules is crucial. InstagramReddit Many visitors recommend dedicating at least half a day, if not a full day, to fully appreciate the historical significance and the various attractions. Reddit

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