Bethune (Pas-de Calais)

The medieval town of Béthune’s most remarkable landmark is its 14th century belfry with its 36 bells which peal every hour. It is situated only 50 minutes/83 km from Calais just off the A26 motorway making this little attractive, bustling town easy to reach. Towards the end of the First World war Bethune was almost left in ruins by the bombardments and fighting, but was rebuilt between 1920 – 1930 with an usual mix of architecture.

Bethune’s Belfry has not been left unscathed over the centuries since it was built in 1376. It stands majestically by itself in the Grand-Place, town square. Originally there stood a wooden watch tower which burnt down, in fact in 1664 it was burnt again but was reconstructed. It is square structure with a wooden bell tower containing 36 bells which still chime every hour. The Tourist Office is in the base of the tower and visitors are able to climb to the top.

Due to its rich coal mining industry in the 19th century, the medieval town of Bethune blossomed. Other industrial grew out of this including distilling oil and tanning. After the destruction of the First World war much of the reconstruction that took place in the 1920’s was in the Flemish style, with their typical stepped gables and attractive red brick buildings, also some unusual art-deco houses appeared. When the Town Hall was rebuilt it was constructed with a stone façade which depicts various events and triumphs of the town.

For the shopaholic Bethune has a selection of designer clothing shops, interior design shops and exceptional delicatessens. Every Monday morning is market day which is held in and around the Market Square.

About the location

Bethune is situated only 50 minutes/83 km from Calais just off the A26 motorway

Public transport available

By Air

The nearest airport is Lille les Quins. Journey by car from the airport to Béthune is 61.4km, 42 minutes by car.

By Car

Either take Eurostar or the ferry across to Calais. Journey by car from Calais to Béthune is 85km, just under the hour.

Tourist information website

http://www.tourisme-artoiscomm.fr/

Tourist information contact email

maisontourisme-bethune@laposte.net

Tourist information switch board number

+ 33 (0)3 21 57 25 47

Tourist information address

The Belfry, Grand'Place, BP 551, 62400 BETHUNE

Local places of interest

The Citadel Park and Zoo - Lille (31.43 km)

The Citadel Park and Zoo is Lille's largest (50 hectares) and most popular park, brings a breath of fresh air to the city. There is also a children's playground and picturesque walks along the banks of the canal. read more...

Palais des Beaux-Arts - Lille (32.16 km)

The Palais des Beaux-Arts of Lille is thought to be the largest general interest museum in France after the Louvre. The collections are the object of worldwide renown and provide a comprehensive over view of the great artistic movements of Europe from the 12th to the 20th century. read more...

Place du General de Gaulle (Grand Place) - Lille (32.54 km)

This is a wonderful place to visit, located right in the city centre. It has many beautiful buildings, numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding the square. For several days at the end of April the annual flower market transforms the square into a huge field of blossom and at Christmas it transforms into a fairytale grotto with a gigantic ferris wheel. read more...

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