Learn about one of World War I's most important battles.
John Ruler is a Life Member of the British Guild of Travel Writers. He lives in Kent and is a specialist in Nord-Pas-de-Calais, writing about his cross-Channel neighbour for magazines and newspapers. He also writes about local history, both sides of the Channel.
Bradt Guides
Books by this author
World War I Battlefields: A Travel Guide to the Western Front
Select optionsRecent articles by this author
View AllFind Herbert: a long-lost relative
John Ruler looks at how his love of Nord-Pas de Calais helped him discover a long-lost relative who perished in World War I.
Read MoreThe Battle of Arras
John Ruler discusses the Battle of Arras, one of the defining moments of World War I.
Read MoreThe cemeteries of Boulogne
One of the top three cross-Channel ports that received supplies and troops in World War I, Boulogne-sur-Mer still bears the scars today.
Read MoreForgotten battles
John Ruler discusses some of the lesser-known battles of the Great War.
Read MoreLouvre-Lens
John Ruler looks at the Louvre’s out-of-town gallery of glittering glass in the heart of King Coal country.
Read MoreNo use whining – beer’s the winner!
Find out why in this region it is beer, not wine, that has traditionally accompanied cheese for almost a century.
Read MoreThe battle of Loos
Learn about one of World War I’s most important battles.
Read MoreCalais to Boulogne on foot: 40km
From Calais to Boulogne, take in the sights of Nord-Pas de Calais on this scenic walk along the beaches and cliff tops.
Read MoreBlockbuster film brings Ch’ti to millions
The blockbuster Bienvenue Chez les Ch’tis paints a new image of Nord-Pas de Calais and has seen an increase in visitors to the town of Bergues.
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