The Nord department, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is full of abandoned places that bear witness to its rich industrial and historical past. For urban exploration enthusiasts, or urbex , these sites offer fascinating and unique adventures. Here is a selection of five must-see urbex sites in the Nord, each with its own distinct atmosphere and captivating story.
1: The Roubaix Spinning Mill
A Relic of the Textile Industry: The former spinning mill in Roubaix is a symbol of the industrial history of the North. Abandoned for several decades, this factory offers a rich field of exploration full of discoveries.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production buildings, warehouses, machinery.
- State of disrepair: Largely in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and the remnants of machines.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the factory and imagine the lives of the workers.
2: The Fort of Seclin
A Witness to Military History: The Seclin fort , built between 1873 and 1880, is an impressive military complex. While some parts are open to the public, other sections remain unexplored and perfect for urban exploration.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others are in ruins.
- Access: Visits are permitted for some sections, but others require discretion.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing military architecture and historical atmosphere.
- Exploration: Discover less accessible areas and delve into the history of the fort.
3: The Abandoned Hospital of Loos
A Deserted Hospital: The former hospital in Loos is a fascinating site, a testament to bygone medical practices. Closed for decades, this place offers an atmosphere that is both unsettling and captivating.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, dormitories, treatment rooms.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some sections remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the medical atmosphere and the remnants of equipment.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and the stories of former patients.
4: The Château de Pont-de-Briques
A Mysterious Castle: The once majestic Pont-de-Briques castle is now partially abandoned. This place is steeped in history and offers a unique urban exploration experience.
Site Features
- Architecture: 18th century castle with outbuildings and gardens.
- State of disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, others are still standing.
- Access: Visits are permitted for some sections, but others require discretion.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing elegant architecture and abandoned gardens.
- Exploration: Delve into the history of the castle and imagine the lives of its former residents.
5: The Abandoned Train Station of Valenciennes
A Railway Relic: The abandoned Valenciennes station is a fascinating site, a testament to the region's railway history. Closed for years, this station offers a nostalgic and melancholic atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Station buildings, platforms, railway tracks.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some sections remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the railway atmosphere and the remnants of the infrastructure.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the station and imagine past railway activity.
Conclusion
The North offers a multitude of fascinating urban exploration sites for fans of urban exploration. From the Roubaix spinning mill to the abandoned Valenciennes train station, passing through the Seclin fort and the Loos hospital, each location offers a unique adventure. By respecting safety rules and property rights, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this region. Happy exploring!
