PLACES OF INTEREST

SINT JOHNS CHURCH

Sint Janskruistraat. The construction of this fine Church began in about 1290 and has had many alterations and additions since. It was restored between 1860 and 1880 but plans for a more elegant tower were never carried out. It was restored again between 1973-83 when some of the stonework was replaced. The church contains a very ornate organ and on the top are the statues of The Angels, King David and St Cecile. This organ dater from 1921 and replaces an earlier one of 1765. The church contains many items of the rococo style including Choir Stalls, Altar and confessionals. Turn left out of station along Ieperstraat as far as  Sint Janskruistraat on right.

SAINT BERTINS CHURCH

Grote markt. Rebuilt in the 15th century in the Gothic style. The tower contains a 47 bell carillon. The central pulpit once stood in the Dominican Monastery in Brugge, hence the image of St Dominicus. The stained glass window in the choir contain hop patterns, the central one depicting St Bertin and other saints in a hop field. The oak sculptures around the organ date from 1630. From station turn left along Ieperstraat to Grote Markt.

TALBOT HOUSE, (TOC H)

Gasthuisstraat 43. Originally a W.W.1. soldiers club named after Lieutenant Gilbert Talbot who died aged 23 in the Ypres salient. The Toc H movement was founded here, it is a philanthropic organisation and works with the disadvantaged, tackling many social problems including loneliness, deprivation and isolation. Its aim is to create a more tolerant and harmonious society based on Christian principles but it accepts people of all denominations. Contains a museum and a Chapel in the loft. Leave Grote Markt along Gasthuisstraat and its on the right. Open daily 09.00 to 12.00 and 14.00 to 16.00. 

THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY

Also in the Gothic style. Building started in about 1290 and the church was extended in 1350. The tower was probably built around 1440 and a new steeple was added between 1837-1838. A new restoration began in 1970. The church has a central pulpit and many statues. Proceed as for Talbot House (above) and carry on along Gasthuisstraat, straight over roundabout, the church is down the street on the left.

HOP MUSEUM

Gasthuisstraat 71. Large building where the hop harvest was brought for weighing and processing. The museum is on several floors and tells the history of hops in the area, their growing , harvesting and processing. Displays include vintage machinery and tools. Just a little further along the road from Toc H. Open May-June Sundays and holidays 14.00 to 18.00. July and Aug every day.

CAFES AND BARS

CAFE D'N HOMMELZAK. Paardenmarkt 10. Medium sized cafe tucked away upstairs in a corner of Paardenmarkt. Good and reasonably priced snacks and meals available, also has a beer menu of about 40. From station turn left along Ieperstraat, take 3rd street on right Goudenhooldstraat, proceed into square (Pardenmarkt) turn right, cafe entrance is straight ahead through glass doors and up the stairs. Closed Mondays.

THE END OF THE LINE

POPERINGE STATION WITH ITS LOW PLATFORMS