The Nord , a department located in the Hauts-de-France region, is full of abandoned places that bear witness to its rich industrial and historical past. For fans of urban exploration, or urbex , these sites offer fascinating and unique adventures. Here is a selection of the five must-see urbex sites in the Nord, each with a particular atmosphere and a captivating history.
1: The Roubaix Spinning Factory
A Vestige of the Textile Industry The old spinning mill of Roubaix is a symbol of the industrial history of the North. Abandoned for several decades, this factory offers an exploration ground rich in discoveries.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production buildings, warehouses, machines.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some parts remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and caution.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and the remains of machinery.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the factory and imagine the life of the workers.
2: The Fort of Seclin
A Witness to Military History The Fort of Seclin , built between 1873 and 1880, is an impressive military complex. Although some parts are accessible to the public, other sections remain unexplored and perfect for urbex.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Visits are permitted for certain sections, but others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- 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 old hospital of Loos is a fascinating site, witness to ancient medical practices. Closed for decades, this place offers an atmosphere that is both disturbing 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?
- Photography: Capturing the medical atmosphere and the remains of equipment.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and the stories of former patients.
4: The Castle of Pont-de-Briques
A Mysterious Castle The once majestic Château de Pont-de-Briques is now partly abandoned. This place is steeped in history and offers a unique experience for urbex.
Site Features
- Architecture: 18th century castle with outbuildings and gardens.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, others still standing.
- Access: Visits are permitted for certain sections, but others require discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing elegant architecture and neglected gardens.
- Exploration: Delve into the history of the castle and imagine the lives of the former residents.
5: The Abandoned Station of Valenciennes
A Railway Vestige The abandoned Valenciennes station is a fascinating site, witness to the railway history of the region. 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?
- Photography: Capturing the railway atmosphere and the remains of infrastructure.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the station and imagine past railway activity.
Conclusion
The North offers a multitude of fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. From the Roubaix spinning mill to the abandoned Valenciennes train station, including the Seclin fort and the Loos hospital, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
