Frequently asked questions

Q1. When are the sites open?

Government of Canada memorial sites are open every day. Check the bulletin board for more information on visitor centre hours and parking at Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial and the Canadian National Vimy Memorial.

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Q2. How much does it cost to enter the site?

All Canadian memorial sites are free of charge.

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Q3. What is the best time of day to visit?

For a visit to the Canadian National Vimy Memorial or Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial plan to arrive early, particularly if you are travelling during peak times (April to November). At the other memorial sites in Europe, any time of day is suitable.

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Q4. How much time should I plan for my visit?

For the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial you should plan for up to two hours if you intend to visit the monument, the cemeteries and the visitor centre.

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Q5. Will any special events or ceremonies be taking place during my visit?

Check the bulletin board to find any scheduled events at a Canadian memorial site in Europe.

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Q6. May I bring my dog?

Only service dogs and guide dogs are permitted at Government of Canada memorial sites.

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Q7. I will be visiting France, can you recommend a place to stay and other points of interest to visit in the area?

We do not maintain information on accommodations or points of interest in Europe. We recommend you contact a tour provider, a travel agent or search tourism websites for the area you will be visiting. Check the "Tourism info" tab on Plan your trip for some recommendations.

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Q8. Is it possible to organize an event at one of the memorial sites?

You will need to contact us at vimy.memorial@veterans.gc.ca or beaumonthamel.memorial@veterans.gc.ca to request permission to host an event at one of the memorial sites in Europe.

Generally, an event can be permitted if it will not inconvenience other visitors i.e. all areas of the site remain available for visitors. Any performances should be short and the activity should reflect a respectful and appropriate form of commemoration.

Q1. Do you offer guided tours?

Yes, at both the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and at the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial. Go to the visitor centre to sign up for a tour.

At the Canadian National Vimy Memorial a 30-minute guided tour of the trench and tunnel system at is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors who wish to visit the Grange tunnel should expect uneven terrain, enclosed spaces, and a descent of up to 10 metres. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult (one adult for every two children) to take part in the tunnel tour.

At the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial a 45-minute guided tour is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

A self-guided tour brochure can be downloaded from the Canadian National Vimy Memorial page and from the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland memorial page. These brochures are also available at each memorial’s visitor centre.

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Q2. Can I make a reservation for a guided tour?

Unfortunately we do not take reservations.

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Q3. Can I take photos?

Yes, please take photos!

One of the best ways to share your experience is to share your photos on your favourite social media. When you post, use #CanadaRemembers and tag @canadaremembers or @memorialcameracanada.

Commercial photographers and media: Please note, you must obtain advanced permission to film or take photographs on any Government of Canada memorial site.

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Q4. Can I use a drone to take photos?

You will need prior authorization to use a drone. Please contact us in advance to request permission to use a drone at one of the Government of Canada memorial sites in Europe.

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Q5. Can I walk throughout a cemetery?

Yes, you are encouraged to walk between the rows at cemeteries. Gravestones are meant to be viewed so each of the fallen can be remembered and honoured.

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Q6. Can I leave a memento?

Yes. You can leave personal items at a monument or on a headstone in a war cemetery, but please do not attach anything as this can cause damage.

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Q7. Are food and washroom facilities available?

There are picnic areas and washroom facilities at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and at the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial.

The visitor centre at the Vimy memorial also has vending machines with some snacks and beverages.

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Q8. Is there wireless internet (WIFI) at the sites?

WIFI is available in the visitor centres of both the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial.