Bailleul: Trails and Historical Traces

Two clearly distinct themes take center stage on a trip to Bailleul: historic structures and trails around the Bois de Bailleul. The motte féodale, the Église Saint-Martin and the iron cross in the hamlet of Grandsart offer specific starting points for exploring culture and history. For outdoor activity, the 7.8 km route “Autour du bois de Bailleul,” rated very easy to easy, is a local option. There is also the GR 125, which connects Île-de-France with the Baie de Somme over 250 km and passes alongside the woods.

Historical traces at the motte

The visible foundations of the castle remain at the Motte féodale de Bailleul. There is also a stone-lined well and deep ditches running around the site. This is the fortified motte-and-bailey castle of Jean de Bailleul, who became King of Scotland. For travelers interested in fortified sites, both this historical association and the surviving structures are noteworthy. The motte is designated as a protected site under France’s “Sites” protection system. Check locally before visiting to confirm access to the private woodland.

Hiking, cycling and route distances

The “Autour du bois de Bailleul” route is 7.8 km long and rated very easy to easy. It is suitable for hiking and cycling, starts in front of the church in Bailleul and also ends in Bailleul. Yellow PR trail markers indicate the route. The trail enters and follows the Bois de Bailleul, but avoids the narrow woodland paths nearby. The very easy to easy rating should be distinguished from the length: it describes the difficulty, while 7.8 km indicates the route distance. The 7.8 km distance applies to the local route; the GR 125, which passes alongside the Bois de Bailleul and connects Île-de-France with the Baie de Somme over 250 km, is a separate trail. Check trail markers and access conditions locally before setting out; conditions may change.

The church and other historical details

The Église Saint-Martin offers a specific architectural point of interest: its stone spire dates from the 14th century. In the hamlet of Grandsart, an iron cross stands on a carved stone base that probably dates from the 13th century. When comparing dates, it is important to associate each date with the relevant structure: the 13th-century date applies to the cross’s base and is probable; the church’s spire dates from the 14th century.

A landscape connection in a place name

The hamlet of Bellifontaine is named after a small river. It rises and flows into the Somme at Eaucourt. The place name thus evokes a landscape, distinct from the built heritage in Bailleul. For travelers interested in place names and the landscape too, Bellifontaine offers another perspective on a stay in the area.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Doingt, Vauchelles-Lès-Domart, Ailly-Le-Haut-Clocher, Beaucamps-Le-Vieux, Bernes, Poulainville, Cayeux-Sur-Mer, Fort-Mahon-Plage

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