Best attractions and places to see around Setques serve as a gateway to the historical, natural, and cultural sites of the Hauts-de-France region in Pas-de-Calais. This commune provides access to a variety of points of interest, from national nature reserves to significant historical landmarks. The surrounding area features diverse landscapes, including coastal cliffs, forests, and marshlands, alongside impressive architectural heritage.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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After being closed for several years, the Saint-Omer train station has been given a facelift. The new, completely renovated building is dedicated to travelers, of course, but also to artists, craftspeople, entrepreneurs… La Station isn't just a station; it's "a space for innovation with a station inside." (c) https://nl.tourisme-saintomer.com/verwonderend/erfgoed-wonderen/meesterwerken-bewonderen/het-station-een-station-en-een-plaats-voor-innovatie/
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Worth seeing small boat lift.
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ship lift from 1888 can be visited as a museum, see www.ascenseurabataux.com with interesting audio tour
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Located in Saint-Omer, France, the Gare de Saint-Omer has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The first version of the station opened on September 1, 1848, as part of the railway line from Lille to Calais. The original building was modest and located outside the city walls, between the Porte de Lyzel and the Porte du Haut-Pont. In 1904, a new, monumental station building was inaugurated, designed by the architect Clément Ligny. This building, with its neoclassical architecture, was built with high-quality materials such as blue stone from Soignies and white stone from Creil. The design reflects the grandeur of a 17th-century castle, complete with symmetrical pavilions and decorative elements such as triglyphs and pediments.
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The Ruines de l’Abbaye Saint-Bertin are the remains of a Benedictine monastery in Saint-Omer, France. The monastery was founded in the 7th century by the Bishop of Thérouanne under the name Abbaye de Sithiu. The ruins of this monastery are located in Saint-Omer, Rue des Ruines Saint-Bertin. They were classified as a historical monument in 1840. The buildings are now in ruins, but are open to the public. The abbey was originally dedicated to Saint Peter and later to Saint Bertin. It was one of the three most powerful abbeys in the north of the kingdom. The monastery was surrounded by a wall and bordered the rivers Aa and Haute-Meldick. It consisted of three parts: the regular places, the peripheral districts and the outbuildings. The abbey church was located at the heart of the monastery and all the buildings were organized around it. The monastery also had a cloister, refectory, parlour, celler, chauffoir and kitchens. The ruins of the abbey offer a fascinating insight into the medieval history of France and are a popular tourist attraction.
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This cathedral, the former "Cloître Notre-Dame" of the canons, is the most beautiful religious building in the region. The shape and dimensions are impressive. The choir dates from 1200, the transept from the 13th century, the nave from the 14th-15th century. The 50 m high facade tower is decorated with vertical blind arches and crowned with watchtowers (15th century). On the middle buttress of the southern portal there is a statue of the Virgin Mary (14th century), and on the tympanum a Last Judgement with very few chosen ones. In the corner next to the choir there is an octagonal Romanesque tower.
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You will see the tomb of St. Audomarus and the mausoleum of Eustache de Croy, chapter provost in Saint-Omer and bishop of Arras, a moving work by Jacques Dubroeucq (16th century). He shows the deceased kneeling, in bishop's robes, but also lying down and naked, as in classical antiquity. Note the 15th-century tombstones with inscriptions and the Descent from the Cross by Rubens (first bay of the right aisle). The tombs are 15th century, the alabaster statues 16th and 17th centuries. Other eye-catchers are the Madonna with cat (right aisle), the statue (13th century) of Notre-Dame des Miracles that attracts pilgrims every September, a Nativity of Christ from the 13th century and the tomb (8th century) of St. Erkembode, abbot of Saint-Bertin - here they leave shoes of children who have difficulty learning to walk. Above the astronomical clock (1558) a jaquemart tolls the hours (transept left). Above it is a rose window in flamboyant style. The statue group Grand Dieu de Thérouanne (13th century) stood 20 m above the portal of the cathedral of Thérouanne, which was destroyed by Charles V. The figures seem distorted, but the artist foreshortened them so that they had the correct perspective from below (transept left).
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The region around Setques is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Saint-Omer Cathedral, known for its 13th-century transept and 15th-century nave. Also, visit the Ruins of St Martin's church, the remains of a 7th-century Benedictine monastery in Saint-Omer. Another significant site is La Coupole in Helfaut, a massive World War II bunker now a museum.
Yes, Setques is close to several natural areas. The Réserve naturelle nationale des grottes et des pelouses d'Acquin-Westbécourt et des coteaux de Wavrans-sur-l'Aa is just 3 km away, offering unique cave and grassland landscapes. Approximately 12 km from Setques, you'll find the Réserve naturelle nationale des étangs du Romelaëre, a beautiful nature reserve with ponds and canals. You can also enjoy the scenic Along the Houlle River, part of the Audomarois Marshes.
For a cultural experience, visit Saint-Omer, an attractive town with historic buildings. The Nausicaá – Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer, about 40 km away, is a premier aquarium and sea life center. You might also consider a guided tour at Arc International in Arques, famous for its crystal and glass tableware.
Families can enjoy the Boat Lift of Fontinettes in Arques, a unique example of hydraulic engineering. The Nausicaá – Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer is also a popular choice for all ages, offering an immersive marine experience. Many of the natural reserves also provide opportunities for family walks and nature observation.
The area around Setques offers various hiking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Old powder mill – Esquerdes loop' or the 'Old Aa Lock – Suspension bridge over the Aa loop'. For more detailed information and routes, check out the Hiking around Setques guide.
Cyclists have a good selection of routes. For mountain biking, consider trails such as 'Lansberghe Path – Along the Houlle River loop from Setques'. Road cyclists can explore longer routes like 'Montée Escoeuilles – Descent from Quercamps to Acquin loop'. Find more options in the MTB Trails around Setques and Road Cycling Routes around Setques guides.
Yes, several belfries in nearby towns are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These include the Beffroi d'Aire-sur-la-Lys (19 km), Beffroi de Gravelines (31 km), Beffroi de Calais (34 km), Beffroi de Bergues (35 km), Beffroi de Boulogne-sur-Mer (38 km), and Beffroi d'Hesdin (38 km). These showcase significant architectural heritage.
Beyond the Saint-Omer Cathedral, the Saint-Omer station is a monumental neoclassical train station built in 1904, designed to evoke the grandeur of a 17th-century château. The Abbey Saint-Paul de Wisques is another impressive abbey in a tranquil village nearby.
Absolutely. The dramatic coastal cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, classified as 'Grand Sites de France,' are about 39-43 km west-north-west of Setques and offer spectacular panoramic views. You can also visit the Dunes d'Écault, about 41 km away, for a distinct natural coastal landscape.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from exploring ancient ruins like the Ruin of St Martin's church to observing diverse flora and fauna in protected areas. The unique engineering of the Boat Lift of Fontinettes and the grandeur of the Saint-Omer Cathedral are frequently highlighted. The region's blend of history, nature, and culture makes it a popular destination.
Yes, Aire-sur-la-Lys, located 19 km away, is officially listed as a 'recommended detour' due to its notable historical architecture. Boulogne-sur-Mer, 38 km away, also boasts an old town encircled by ramparts, a castle, and ancient streets.


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