Attractions and Places To See around Épinoy - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Épinoy, a commune in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, offer a blend of historical and natural experiences. While Épinoy itself features poignant World War I graves, the surrounding region provides access to significant architectural landmarks and regional nature reserves. This area serves as a base for exploring historical sites and natural features within a short distance.
Best attractions and places to see around Épinoy
- The most popular attractions is The Menhir of…
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Belfry of Cambrai
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
The Big Rock
Highlight • Historical Site
Be careful, the place is very swampy and it is more easily accessible in dry weather 😉.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
The Orangery Castle
Highlight • Parking
Roucourt Castle was built at the end of the 18th century by Monsieur Béranger, a cannon founder under the Empire.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Épinoy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Magnificent..I love walking there to see the deer 😍
1
0
A Brief History Note. Roucourt Castle was built at the end of the 18th century by Monsieur Béranger, a cannon founder under the Empire. …During World War I, the castle was occupied by the squadron and men of Captain Baron Von Richthofen, known as the "Red Baron," who sheltered his planes in the avenue of over 100-year-old lime trees that precede the entrance gate. Destroyed by fire in 1918, it was rebuilt between 1921 and 1923 and restored in 1997 by Colette and Guy Becquet de Mégille, the current owners.
3
0
Built in 1623, the Notre-Dame gate marks the northern entrance to the city. At that time, city gates, protected by bastions, freed themselves from their defensive role and became symbols of the wealth of cities. With its “diamond point” hardware and its rich sculpted decoration, the Notre-Dame gate is representative of the Baroque style. The sun that adorns the upper part was added after the capture of Cambrai by Louis XIV. https://www.villedecambrai.com/decouvrir/decouvrir-la-ville/portrait-de-ville/patrimoine-et-architecture/heurs-et-malheurs-dune-ville-frontiere/la-porte-notre-dame
10
0
The belfry, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the bell tower of the Saint-Martin church, the rest of the building having disappeared during the French Revolution. A symbol of communal freedoms, this belfry also ensured the security of the city. Night and day, lookouts monitored the city and warned of the arrival of enemies or the start of fires by sounding the tocsin. The oldest parts of this building date back to 1474 and rise from the base to the height of the cornice. Supported by wide buttresses, the first bell chamber opens onto triple bays in a Gothic-style pointed arch. Since 1736, this tower has been raised by another level in the classical style into which the second bell chamber opens. This part is topped by a drum where the watch room was located, the whole being topped with a dome and a lantern. Four sculptures made of cast concrete by Marcel Gaumont after the First World War evoke the historical periods of the city. We can see a Frankish warrior; a crossbowman symbolizing the communal militia; Louise of Savoy, mother of François I, who signed the Treaty of the Peace of the Ladies in Cambrai and the knight of Cezen, first governor of the city that became French. The entrance to the belfry has a sculpted decoration by René Faches. The central part bears the arms of Cambrai, surmounted by Saint Martin sharing his cloak to offer it to a poor man. These sculptures evoke the civil and religious duality of this belfry. (Cambrésis Tourisme)
6
0
The Beffroi de Cambrai is an impressive tower in Cambrai, located in the Nord department of France. Originally part of the old Saint Martin's Church, this tower is built in the Gothic style and is approximately 62 metres high. The beffroi is known for its sturdy buttresses reminiscent of medieval donjons. At the foot of the tower is a statue of Saint Martin, the patron saint of the city. The tower has a rich history and has survived both world wars unscathed. Since 1965, the beffroi has been classified as a historical monument and in 2005 it was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, together with other beffrois in the region.
7
0
They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
2
0
A hike to Porte Notre Dame in Cambrai will take you to one of the most beautiful monuments in the city. It is an old gate of the medieval fortifications, built in the 14th century and renovated in the 17th century. With rich baroque decoration, a diamond-shaped stone pattern and a coat of arms of the city, you can admire the architecture and history of the gate, which was once the entrance to the cathedral and the episcopal palace.
5
0
The story goes that once the people of the country showed the scratches produced, according to legend, by the claws of the demon when he seized the stone. Streaks do indeed appear on two sides of the menhir… But are they the same as before or do they come from the destruction of the stone in 1918
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Épinoy?
Épinoy itself is home to poignant World War I graves, a solemn reminder of the area's past. Nearby, you can explore significant architectural landmarks such as the Belfry of Cambrai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the historic Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai. The region also features ancient megaliths like The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone, and The Big Rock, each with local legends.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites near Épinoy?
Yes, the Belfry of Cambrai is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its historical and architectural significance. It was originally part of the old Saint Martin's Church and stands approximately 62 meters high.
What natural attractions or reserves are there near Épinoy?
The region around Épinoy offers several natural reserves within a 20km radius. These include the Réserve naturelle régionale de la Tourbière de Vred, the Réserve naturelle régionale du Marais de Wagnonville, and the Réserve naturelle régionale du Pré des Nonnettes. These areas provide opportunities to experience local flora and fauna.
What outdoor activities can I do around Épinoy?
You can enjoy various outdoor activities, including gravel biking, road cycling, and mountain biking. For gravel biking, routes like 'Escluse proville – The Round Basin loop' offer moderate challenges. Road cyclists can explore longer routes such as 'Marchiennes State Forest – Croix-ou-Pile loop'. Mountain bikers have options like 'Oisy-le-Verger Marshes – Single Canal Arleux loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for gravel biking, road cycling, and MTB trails around Épinoy.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Épinoy?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The ancient megaliths like The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone and the stone that grows offer intriguing stories and a chance for a walk in nature. The Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai is also considered family-friendly, providing a glimpse into historical architecture.
What are some of the legends associated with the megaliths in the area?
The megaliths around Épinoy are steeped in local folklore. For instance, The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone is said to have scratches made by the devil's claws, and a legend tells of a farmer making a pact with Satan. The Big Rock also has a tale involving the devil and nuns. Meanwhile, the stone that grows is believed to continue growing over time, adding to its mystique.
What is the best time to visit Épinoy for outdoor activities?
The region around Épinoy is generally pleasant for outdoor activities during the drier seasons. While specific seasonal events are not detailed, visiting during spring or autumn often provides comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites and natural reserves. Some areas, like the location of The Big Rock, can be very swampy, making dry weather preferable for access.
Are there dog-friendly places or trails around Épinoy?
While specific dog policies for all attractions are not detailed, many natural areas and walking routes around Épinoy are generally suitable for dogs on a leash. The regional nature reserves and the paths leading to the megaliths often provide good opportunities for walks with your canine companion.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the Épinoy area?
The area offers scenic views, particularly around its natural features and historical monuments. The stature of The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone makes it visible from afar and an emblem of its surroundings. The belfries, such as the Belfry of Cambrai, also offer impressive architectural sights within the landscape.
What are the terrain difficulties of trails around Épinoy?
The terrain difficulty varies depending on the activity and specific route. For cycling, you can find moderate to difficult routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, the 'Cantaing-sur-Escaut Lock – Tour de l'Échauguette loop' for gravel biking is rated difficult. Some natural sites, like the area around The Big Rock, can be swampy, making access challenging, especially after rain.
Do I need permits for outdoor activities around Épinoy?
Generally, permits are not required for casual outdoor activities like walking or cycling on public trails and roads around Épinoy. However, if you plan to visit specific nature reserves or engage in organized events, it's always advisable to check with local authorities or the reserve management for any specific regulations or permit requirements.
Where can I find local amenities like cafes or accommodation near Épinoy?
Épinoy is a smaller commune, but the surrounding towns, particularly Cambrai (about 8km away) and Douai (about 16km away), offer a wider range of amenities including cafes, pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options. These towns serve as good bases for exploring the region's attractions.
Most popular attractions around Épinoy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
