Dieppe is a charming city of some 40,000 inhabitants that offers visitors a mix of rich history, beautiful scenery, and modern amenities. Its pebble beaches are perfect for strolling, and visitors can enjoy the views of the cliffs that rise above them. The town's waterfront is lined with seafood restaurants, offering a chance to sample local delicacies such as scallops and mussels.
Click here to see where Dieppe is located on Google Maps
The city was founded in the year 1060. Dieppe is on one of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage routes (El Camino).
Dieppe, like most of the coastal places in Normandy, is located in-between the high cliffs.
Street Scene
As Dieppe is a small city, it's easy to stroll from one end to the other. Many of the inner city streets are cobblestones. Some streets are quite narrow:
There are a few areas in Dieppe that have remained unscathed from World War II and retain their ancient charm. While their numbers are limited, the fortified walls of Dieppe and the castle still stand to this day.
Although there are a handful of pedestrian streets, on Saturdays, be cautious as there is a massive street market situated alongside the streets of Saint-Jacques church.
Weather permitting, the pedestrian-only streets will provide terraces for the remainder of the week.
Restaurants
While there are numerous restaurants situated in Dieppe, a considerable amount of them are positioned next to the harbor. These establishments tend to cater to tourists and can be pricey, with the food quality being subpar. Nonetheless, it's hard to come across truly awful food in France. Plus, the picturesque view of the harbor is worth it.
Chateau-Museum of Dieppe
One of Dieppe's main attractions is its historical landmarks, which bear witness to its long and fascinating past. The Chateau-Museum of Dieppe is a historical monument and museum. The building was constructed in the 15th century and served as a fortress, protecting the town from maritime invasions. It was later used as a prison and a courthouse, before being converted into a museum in the 1920s.
Since the castle is located on top of the hill/cliff, overseeing the town from up high, the views are impressive:
Click here to read more about this amazing castle
The Museum
The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks that trace the history and culture of Dieppe and the surrounding region. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, furniture, ceramics, and other decorative arts, as well as historical documents and photographs.
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of ivory carvings, which are considered some of the finest in the world. The collection includes works by famous ivory carvers such as Jean-Baptiste van Dievoet and Jacques Roettiers, as well as pieces from Africa and Asia.
Another notable feature of the Chateau-Museum is its beautiful garden, which offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the town. The garden features a wide variety of plants and trees, as well as a pond and a small waterfall.
Visitors to the Chateau-Museum of Dieppe can explore the exhibits on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the museum's collection. The museum is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.
Click here to access the museum's website
Click here to see where the castle is located on Google Maps
Saint-Jacques church
The church of Saint-Jacques is another notable landmark, featuring a beautiful Gothic façade and stained glass windows.
The church is dedicated to Saint James the Greater, who is the patron saint of pilgrims and travelers.
The construction of the church began in the 15th century, and it was completed in the 16th century. It is a Gothic-style church, with elements of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. The church has a tall spire, which is visible from many parts of the town.
The interior of the church is richly decorated, with stained glass windows, sculptures, and paintings. One of the most notable features of the interior is the high altar, which is made of white marble and was created in the 18th century. The altar is decorated with statues of saints, and it is surrounded by ornate carvings and decorations.
The church has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Dieppe for centuries. It has been the site of many important events, including royal weddings and funerals, and it has also been a popular destination for pilgrims.
Today, the Saint-Jacques Church of Dieppe is a popular tourist attraction, and it is open to visitors throughout the year. Visitors can explore the interior of the church and admire its beautiful architecture and decorations. The church is also still used for regular religious services, and visitors are welcome to attend mass or other religious events.
Click here to see where the Saint-Jacques church is on Google Maps
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours chapel
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours, which is also known as the Chapel of Our Lady of Good Help is located on the hill overlooking the harbor entrance.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours is a Roman Catholic chapel located in the Saint-Jacques district of Dieppe, France. The chapel dates back to the 17th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is situated on a hill overlooking the town and the sea and is a popular destination for visitors due to its historic significance and beautiful views.
The chapel was originally built in the 1600s and underwent renovations in the 1800s. It has a simple yet elegant interior, with a wooden altar and a statue of the Virgin Mary. The chapel is also known for its beautiful stained glass windows and frescoes.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours is still an active place of worship, with regular Masses held throughout the year. It is also open to visitors who wish to explore its history and architecture.
Above the hill is a solitary church dominating the exit of the harbour. The church, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours (our Lady of the Good Rescue), was built in 1876 and is dedicated to the sailors lost to the sea.
Click here to see where the chapel is located on Google Maps
Saint-Remy church
The Saint-Rémy church is a Catholic church located in the city of Dieppe, France. It is one of the most important religious buildings in the city and is known for its striking Gothic architecture.
The church was built between the 15th and 16th centuries and has undergone several restorations over the years. It is dedicated to Saint Rémy, who was a bishop of Rheims in the 5th century and is considered the patron saint of the city.
The exterior of the church is characterized by its elegant spire and its large rose window, which is located above the main entrance. The interior of the church features a stunning vaulted ceiling and a number of beautiful stained-glass windows.
One of the highlights of the church is its organ, which was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the finest examples of organ-building in France. The organ has undergone several restorations over the years and is still used for concerts and other musical performances.
Overall, the Saint-Rémy church is a must-visit for anyone interested in Gothic architecture and religious history. Its rich history and beautiful design make it one of the most impressive buildings in Dieppe.
Click here to see where the Saint-Remy church is on Google Maps
Memorial Museum
The Memorial Museum of August 19, 1942, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of World War II. The museum provides an in-depth look at the events of the Dieppe Raid and the impact it had on the war effort. Visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and films from the time, as well as hear personal accounts from survivors.
Click here to see where the Memorial museum is on Google Maps
There has been a long standing relationship between Dieppe and Canada. The relationship culminated in the tragic end of WWII's "Operation Jubilee", an attempt by the Allied Forces to occupy Dieppe (1942, years before D-Day). On the 19th of August 1942, more than 2,000 Canadian soldiers died trying to take the city, a struggle that the city of Dieppe will never forget.
This is why you will find many reminders all over the city that Canada has a very special place in the hearts of the people of Dieppe.
Ferry
One of the highlights of Dieppe is its ferry service that sails from Dieppe to Newhaven several times a day. The ferry is an impressive sight and can be seen from various parts of the city. Its prominent location in the inner city gives it the appearance of being parked right in the heart of Dieppe.
The ferry is a significant transport link between France and the UK, making it a popular choice for people traveling between the two countries. It offers a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for passengers who want to travel by sea. The ferry service is a vital part of the city's transportation infrastructure and plays an important role in the local economy.
Click here to access the ferry company's website
Click here to see where the ferry terminal is on Google Maps
Festivals
Dieppe is also home to a range of festivals and events throughout the year. In September, the town hosts a kite festival, attracting participants from around the world.
Other popular events include the Dieppe International Chess Tournament in July and the Herring and Scallop Festival in November.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Dieppe also offers visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is a popular destination for water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike, taking in the picturesque landscapes of the Normandy region.
Golf Club
The Golf Club of Dieppe in France is also known as Golf de Dieppe-Pourville. It is located in the Seine-Maritime department of Normandy, about 2 hours drive from Paris. It is the oldest golf club of France.
The golf course was designed by the famous Scottish architect, Willie Park Jr, and opened in 1897. It is an 18-hole, par-72 course that measures 6,082 meters (6,646 yards) from the back tees. The course is set on a gently rolling terrain and is surrounded by beautiful views of the cliffs and sea.
The course has hosted several important golf tournaments over the years, including the French Open in 1909 and the French Professional Championship in 1999. It is known for its challenging layout and narrow fairways, which require accuracy off the tee. The signature hole of the course is the 15th, a par-3 that requires a tee shot over a ravine to reach the green.
In addition to the golf course, the Golf Club of Dieppe also offers practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, as well as a clubhouse with a restaurant and pro shop.
Click here to see where the Golf Club of Dieppe is on Google Maps
Click here to access the Golf Club website
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dieppe is a town with a fascinating history and plenty of charm. Its location on the English Channel makes it a popular destination for beach-goers and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors to the town can explore its rich heritage, including its medieval architecture and its role in World War II. With its bustling markets, charming streets, and beautiful harbour, Dieppe is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.