Customer Q&A: Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme with Clive Harris
Customer feedback is really important to us and first-hand reviews are invaluable in ensuring each trip is a success and runs smoothly year after year. Every guest is sent a feedback form after their return and we also ask guests for further insights on our trips.
2026 marked the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, and military historian Clive Harris joined our guests on a commemorative tour. Our history tours are always popular, especially when they are expert-led, as the insights and commentary are unrivalled. In our latest customer Q&A, three guests including Andrew Lawrence and Carole Whittaker share their experience and highlights of the tour.
Have you ever been on a tour with an expert before?
No, I hadn't been on a tour with an expert before. I'd been wanting to visit Amiens for several years and both my great grandfather and my wife's great uncle were killed at the Somme, so it was an ideal opportunity to combine the two.
AL: I have been on around seven or eight tours with Tripsmiths Travel.
CW: No I hadn't done this before, but when I saw the advertisement, I saw that it included two places where my father-in-law fought, so I felt I had to come.
What difference did it make having Clive Harris on the tour with you?
I cannot think there would be anyone better in the country to conduct the tour than Clive, with his wealth of detailed experience and personable, organised approach.
AL: Clive is exceptional. As well as being a first class historian, he is also an excellent organiser and manager of people. In addition, he is a kind and empathetic person who is able to get his group to do what he asks without question! The care and concern for everyone's well-being was also noted, particularly when our travel plans were disrupted on the way home. Nothing was too much trouble for him and we were very grateful for his help.
CW: His presence made a huge difference, he is incredibly knowledgeable and tailored the route each day to incorporate specific places that were pertinent to individuals in our group. This added so much to the whole experience.
How did you find the experience of travelling with others as part of a group?
It was interesting to learn from others on the tour relating the background of their family involvement on the Somme.
AL: Yes, it was great - sharing other people's stories of relatives was so interesting. Just staying in the hotel, having meals, drinks, and travelling was so lovely in the company of such a good crowd.
CW: It was a very friendly group. I was a bit apprehensive travelling on my own but people were soon very chatty and some even included me in their own dinner arrangements.
What were the top 3 highlights from your experience?
- To be stood on the corner of a beautiful foreign field just yards from where my great grandfather died fighting for this country with his mates was very sad but made me very proud.
- The town of Amiens was as pleasant as I expected it to be - and livelier which was great.
- The people that Clive introduced us to both French and English in their various businesses or professions could not have been more friendly and helpful.
AL: Difficult, as it was all so good! Obviously the Thiepval ceremony was very special, as was the experience of travelling the path of the war on The Somme. The visit to the Salon Godbert was also amazing.
CW: There were many special moments but two of my favourites were the Thiepval anniversary service, and the trip to Delville Wood.
What would you say to someone thinking of booking a similar trip?
Just do it!
AL: Agree, Go for it! It's such good value if you are looking into a detailed insight to our past history.
CW: Definitely go. I learnt so much and Clive is an excellent guide.
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