Highlight • Historical Site
Polygon Wood Cemetery
Hiking
5.0
(153)
Cycling
5.0
(69)
Polygon Wood Cemetery is a poignant Commonwealth War Graves Commission burial ground located in West Flanders, Belgium, approximately 8 kilometers east of Ieper (Ypres) town center. Situated within the historic Polygon Wood, near Zonnebeke, this site stands at an elevation of 51 meters and serves as a solemn reminder of the intense fighting that took place here during the First World War. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, forming part of the "Funerary and memory sites of…
Cycling is not permitted at this location
Tips
May 8, 2025
Cycling
There is also the story of Second Lieutenant John Lowe, a Royal Engineer buried in the cemetery. He was awarded both the Military Cross and the Military Medal, indicating that he showed exceptional courage and leadership during the fighting.
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August 27, 2022
Cycling
At the end of October 1914, all Germans were expelled from the forest by British troops.
On May 3, 1915, the forest was relinquished again by the withdrawal to Ypres during the 2nd Battle of Ypres.
At the end of September 1917, Australian troops recaptured the forest.
During the German Spring Offensive in the spring of 1918, the forest was relinquished.
On September 28, 1918, it was definitively captured by the 9th (Scottish) Division.
•
February 6, 2021
Hiking
source: walking guide Flanders route GR 128
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Details
Informations
Elevation 50 m
Weather
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Monday 11 May
14°C
4°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there specific walking or hiking routes that include Polygon Wood Cemetery?
Yes, Polygon Wood Cemetery is often integrated into longer walking and hiking routes through the historic Polygon Wood and surrounding areas. These routes typically lead past other significant WWI memorials, such as the 5th Australian Division Memorial on the Butte, and the larger Buttes New British Cemetery. You can find various Polygon Wood walking routes and hiking paths that explore the forest, including remnants of WWI bunkers, on platforms like komoot.
How much time should I allocate for a visit to Polygon Wood Cemetery and its immediate surroundings?
While the cemetery itself can be explored in 30-60 minutes for quiet contemplation, many visitors choose to spend 1.5 to 3 hours to fully experience the area. This allows time to walk the walled avenue to Buttes New British Cemetery, visit the 5th Australian Division Memorial on the Butte, and explore some of the surrounding Polygon Wood with its bunker ruins. If you combine it with a longer hiking route, your visit could extend for several hours.
What are the parking facilities like at Polygon Wood Cemetery?
Parking facilities are available nearby Polygon Wood Cemetery. While the intro mentions availability, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as parking areas can fill up quickly. There are no specific details provided about whether parking is free or paid, but generally, CWGC sites offer free parking.
Is Polygon Wood Cemetery suitable for children?
Polygon Wood Cemetery is categorized as 'family_friendly' in highlight data, suggesting it is generally suitable for children. However, given its solemn nature as a war cemetery, it's best suited for older children who can understand and respect the historical significance. The surrounding Polygon Wood offers space for walking, but the primary focus is on remembrance and historical reflection.
What are the public transport options for reaching Polygon Wood Cemetery?
Specific public transport routes directly to Polygon Wood Cemetery are not detailed in the provided information. The cemetery is located approximately 8 kilometers east of Ieper (Ypres) town center. Visitors typically reach the site by car, taxi, or as part of organized tours from Ieper. It's recommended to check local bus schedules or taxi services from Ieper for the most current public transport options.
Are dogs allowed at Polygon Wood Cemetery or on nearby trails?
The provided information does not explicitly state the policy on dogs within Polygon Wood Cemetery. Generally, Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries welcome well-behaved dogs on a leash. For the surrounding Polygon Wood trails, dogs are usually permitted, but it's always best to keep them on a leash and clean up after them, especially in areas of historical significance.
How does Polygon Wood Cemetery compare to other major WWI sites like Tyne Cot Cemetery?
Polygon Wood Cemetery offers a distinct experience compared to larger concentration cemeteries like Tyne Cot. Polygon Wood Cemetery is a smaller, more intimate 'front-line' cemetery with an irregular layout, reflecting its origins as a battlefield burial ground. It contains 107 Commonwealth burials, with a significant number of New Zealanders and Australians. Tyne Cot, on the other hand, is the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in the world, with over 11,900 burials and a vast memorial to the missing. Both are profoundly moving, but Polygon Wood provides a more direct, raw connection to the immediate aftermath of battle.
What unique historical facts or stories are associated with Polygon Wood Cemetery?
Polygon Wood Cemetery holds several unique stories. It is notable for being the burial place of the only German soldier, Hans Bogner, among the Commonwealth graves. An interesting anecdote suggests his headstone was once broken and later repaired, hinting at a special story. The cemetery also contains the grave of Second Lieutenant John Lowe, a Royal Engineer, who was awarded both the Military Cross and the Military Medal for exceptional courage. The irregular layout of the graves itself is a historical feature, indicating its establishment during active wartime conditions.
What should hikers and cyclists bring when visiting Polygon Wood Cemetery and the surrounding Polygon Wood?
For hikers and cyclists exploring Polygon Wood and the cemetery, it's advisable to bring appropriate footwear suitable for walking on potentially uneven terrain, especially if venturing into the wood where bunker ruins are present. A water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing (as conditions can change), and a camera for reflection are recommended. If you plan to use komoot for navigation, ensure your device is charged. Given the historical significance, a respectful demeanor is also important.
Are there any restaurants or accommodation options near Polygon Wood Cemetery?
The immediate vicinity of Polygon Wood Cemetery is primarily rural and focused on remembrance. While there might be a few local establishments, for a wider selection of restaurants and accommodation, visitors typically head to the nearby town of Ieper (Ypres), which is approximately 8 kilometers away. Ieper offers a range of dining options, hotels, and guesthouses suitable for various budgets.
What other WWI attractions are located close to Polygon Wood Cemetery?
Polygon Wood Cemetery is part of a rich landscape of WWI remembrance sites. Directly adjacent is the larger Buttes New British Cemetery, which includes the New Zealand Memorial to the Missing. On the Butte within Polygon Wood, you'll find the striking 5th Australian Division Memorial. The entire area is part of the 'Funerary and memory sites of the First World War (Western Front)' UNESCO World Heritage site. Other significant sites in the wider Ypres Salient, such as Tyne Cot Cemetery, the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, and the Menin Gate in Ieper, are also within a short driving distance.