Audruicq trail

Audruicq is a rural market town best known for its Wednesday morning market, one of the largest and most traditional in the region. The rural identity of Audruicq is celebrated every year, two weeks before Easter, during the famous agricultural fair that brings together farmers and key figures from the rural world. In the town centre, set off in search of traces of the past that bear witness to the town’s vitality. The Château of Audruicq, the Jonnart Bridge, the layout of the former fortifications and Saint Martin’s Church all invite visitors to step back in time. The canal and the watergangs on the outskirts of the town are a reminder that this is also a land where water is ever present.

practical information

Walking

Start

Place du Général de Gaulle

Distance

10km
(or 2km)

duration

2h30

variant duration

30min

The history of Audruicq Castle

A fine 18th-century residence set in the middle of a wooded park, this castle was built on the foundations of an earlier fortress dating back to the 11th century. The first castle was erected by Baldwin Iron Arm, the first Count of Flanders, to protect the area from Viking incursions. Part of the original defensive moats can still be seen in the park today. The present castle dates from 1767. The main residence was built in just one month by Jean-Baptiste Cyprien de Laurétan as a surprise for his young wife. At the rear, the castle is flanked by a tall turret, once used to keep watch for approaching enemies. Today, the Audruicq Castle houses the town hall of Audruicq.

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A must-see during your walk!

Former foundry

Along the Audruicq Canal stood a foundry whose origins date back to 1876. The canal was heavily used by barges carrying sand, coal, metals and other raw materials required for iron casting. The foundry produced manhole covers, gargoyles, compressors, diesel engines, pumps and printing machines. Thousands of cast-iron items were manufactured and shipped throughout France and to most industrialised countries. The foundry ceased operations in 1987. Today, all that remains is a row of former workers’ houses, which has since been renovated.

Jonnart Bridge

It was from this bridge that most young people from Audruicq learned to swim, to the point that it became known as the Swimmers’ Bridge.

St-Martin Church

An 18th-century church whose original architecture reflects the Flemish “hallekerque” style. Inside, admire its organ and listed historic furnishings, largely crafted from Danish oak.