The site sits on Hill 62, a strategic high point during the Battle of Mount Sorrel in 1916.
The trenches preserved here are some of the few original segments left in Belgium that have not been filled in or extensively rebuilt.
The museum houses a large collection of stereoscopic photographs, which visitors can view through period-appropriate viewers.
The owner of the site is the descendant of the original farmer who lived on the land during and after the war.
Many of the items on display were unearthed by local farmers while plowing the surrounding fields in the decades following the armistice.
The site includes a significant collection of British, German, and French military equipment found in the vicinity of Sanctuary Wood.
Sanctuary Wood Museum is a privately owned site located at Hill 62 that features original, unrestored First World War trench systems. Unlike many other memorial sites in the Ypres Salient, these trenches remain in their raw state rather than being reconstructed. The site includes an extensive collection of WWI artifacts, including weaponry, uniforms, and personal effects found in the surrounding fields. The grounds also contain a cemetery dedicated to British soldiers and a lookout point offering views toward Ypres. The collection has been curated by the same family for generations, maintaining a distinct, unpolished aesthetic. The museum provides an intimate view of the subterranean war conditions experienced during the 1915-1917 period. It serves as a stark contrast to the manicured Commonwealth War Graves Commission sites nearby.
The elevated viewing area at the top of the site overlooking the landscape toward the Ypres cathedral spires.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, as the trench paths are frequently muddy and uneven.
Bring a jacket, as the trenches and indoor display areas can be significantly cooler than the outside temperature.
Take time to examine the stereoscopic photo viewers, as they provide a unique 3D historical perspective.
Do not attempt to walk in the trenches if you have mobility issues, as the ground is highly irregular and slippery; do not touch or pick up any unexploded ordnance, as artifacts are occasionally still found in the region.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Maintain a respectful tone as the site is located on former heavy combat zones; stay on designated paths within the trenches to ensure safety and preservation.
