23 October 2019
Thiepval Memorial restoration and new digital exhibition
THIEPVAL RESTORATION WORKS STARTING MARCH 2020 - MAY 2021
The second phase of a major restoration project will be starting in March 2020 at the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, France, and continuing through to 2021. These essential works are a continuation of the first phase which was completed in 2016 and were paused for the 2018 centenary events.
Phase one consisted of repairs to the roofs, rainwater pipes and brick work above the main arch. The second phase starting in 2020 will be a continuation of this work along with additional drainage works, water proofing, restoration of name panels and relaying of paving. This essential work will ensure this historic memorial will be preserved for generations to come.
During the renovations various parts of the structure will be inaccessible but visitors wishing to see relatives’ names, will be able view the relevant panels via a new digital exhibition.
Thank you for your patience during the restoration works.
NEW DIGITAL EXHIBITION AND TRAIL AT THIEPVAL MEMORIAL, 2020
We recognise that Thiepval is at the heart of any battlefield tour, so we will be providing innovative new ways of exploring the site once the works are underway. Through an interactive multimedia exhibition and a walking trail, visitors will be able to learn about the memorial, its place in the landscape, and the Battle of Somme. The exhibition will also feature some of the casualties we commemorate, the wider work of the CWGC and regular updates on the renovation as it happens. Personal stories, archive materials, our extensive casualty records and much more will be freely available to all visitors via their mobile devices – creating an intimate experience of Thiepval’s compelling history through film, sound and arresting imagery.
Visitors can further immerse themselves in the site by following a walking trail that showcases the memorial and its evocative surroundings from many different perspectives.
Our dedicated CWGF interns will be on site from April to November. Enthusiastic and informative, they are always happy to help and answer all manner of questions – from military history to modern horticulture!
Come and see this exciting new visitor experience at Thiepval from March 2020 onwards.
We will send out regular updates on the progress of works but for more information on the restoration visit our website at www.cwgc.org and follow us on social media: