Canadian National Vimy MemorialAbout Canadian National Vimy Memorial
The Canadian National Vimy Memorial is a First World War monument and commemorative site on Vimy Ridge in northern France. It commemorates Canadian Expeditionary Force members who died in France and have no known grave.
The main monument is a large sculptural ensemble in pale limestone set on a raised mound, offering broad views across the Douai plain; the names of more than 11,000 missing Canadians are inscribed on the site. Adjacent areas include preserved trench lines and a visitor centre with exhibitions on the battle and its significance.
The memorial was designed by Canadian sculptor Walter Seymour Allward and was unveiled in 1936; it has since been maintained as a national memorial and historic site by the Canadian government. The site combines formal commemoration with conservation of battlefield remains.
Geographically it stands on Vimy Ridge in the Pas-de-Calais area of Hauts-de-France, roughly northeast of Arras, positioned on a prominent ridge that was the scene of heavy fighting in April 1917.
- Names on the memorial: The memorial bears the names of 11,285 Canadian servicemen who died in France during the First World War and have no known grave.
- Designer and unveiling: Designed by sculptor Walter Seymour Allward and unveiled in 1936, the memorial stands on Vimy Ridge and is managed by the Canadian government as a national historic site.
What to See#
- Memorial monument: An imposing limestone memorial sculpture group and twin pylons set on a landscaped hill that serve as the main commemorative monument and viewpoint over the surrounding plain.
- Visitor centre and preserved trenches: A visitor centre and preserved trench systems located in the adjoining historic battlefield area provide interpretive exhibits about the April 1917 battle and Canadian forces’ role.
Nearby Attractions to Canadian National Vimy Memorial
Best Time to Visit Canadian National Vimy Memorial
Best visited April-September for full visitor services and milder weather; spring and autumn offer quieter experiences.
Weather & Climate near Canadian National Vimy Memorial
Canadian National Vimy Memorial's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (735 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 1° - 6° | -1° | 60 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 1° - 6° | -1° | 47 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 3° - 9° | 3° | 58 mm | - | - | 4.9 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 4° - 12° | 5° | 51 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 8° - 16° | 12° | 60 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 10° - 19° | 15° | 66 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 12° - 22° | 17° | 61 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 12° - 22° | 17° | 55 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 10° - 19° | 14° | 66 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 7° - 14° | 11° | 69 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 3° - 9° | 3° | 73 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 2° - 6° | 0° | 69 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Canadian National Vimy Memorial
From Arras, drive or take local buses toward Vimy (about 15-20 minutes). The site is signposted from regional roads; the memorial has a visitor centre and parking.
Tips for Visiting Canadian National Vimy Memorial
- Arrive early morning to avoid coaches and take time at the preserved trench lines and interpretive plaques.
- Allow 1-2 hours for the visitor centre and memorial grounds; the site is expansive and contemplative.
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking the slopes and carved pathways over the preserved battlefield.