Things To Do
in Escaudain
Escaudain is a small northern commune in Hauts-de-France, rooted in a historical industrial past yet today offering a quiet, village-like charm. The town features brick-and-stone architecture, a welcoming community, and easy access to larger centers like Valenciennes. Its landscape blends green spaces with traditional market streets, making it ideal for strolls and day trips.
Visitors can experience a slice of authentic northern France, with friendly locals and simple, hearty cuisine nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Château d'Escaudain, admiring its 19th-century architecture. Learn about the local lords who once inhabited this elegant residence. Stroll through the well-manicured gardens to set a peaceful tone for the journey ahead.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the château grounds using fresh local produce from the Escaudain market. Take time to relax in the shade of century-old trees while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Capture photos of the ornate facades and surrounding parkland.
Conclude your day with a tasting at a nearby wine bar featuring regional vintages. Chat with the sommelier about the pairing of wines with traditional dishes from Hauts-de-France. End the evening with a leisurely walk under softly lit streets back to your accommodation.
Start at the weekly outdoor market in Escaudain, where vendors sell fresh cheese, charcuterie and seasonal produce. Engage with local artisans to sample homemade jams and honey from the surrounding countryside. Pick up ingredients for a light picnic later in the day.
Head to nearby Valenciennes to explore its historic city center and the Place d’Armes. Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Trinité and the painterly facades of 19th-century townhouses. Stop at a café terrace for a traditional café gourmand.
Return to Escaudain and dine at a family-run bistro serving Flemish-inspired fare. Enjoy plates of carbonnade flamande or potjevleesch accompanied by local fries. Conclude with a stroll along the canal, absorbing the gentle evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥐Bakery pastry | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $2-6 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Northern France experience
- Close to larger towns and good transport links
- Limited nightlife and international dining compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of high-end shopping and venues
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Escaudain
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic square with brick architecture and ornate façades, ideal for architectural photography and morning light.
A calm waterway with barges and reflections, perfect for tranquil compositions and golden-hour shots.
Historic stone church beside a bustling market street, offering textures and candid street scenes.
Elevated vantage point for warm, colorful skies and atmospheric street lighting.
Food in Escaudain
Escaudain Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A leek tart enriched with maroilles cheese, a signature regional flavor found in bakeries and bistros.
Must-Try!
Beef braised slowly in beer with onions and herbs; a hearty staple of the northern culinary repertoire.
A cold, jelly-set dish of meats (often pork or poultry) served with bread; a nod to Flemish culinary influences.
Toasted bread topped with melted maroilles cheese for a simple, savory bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional snacks; look for local specialties and seasonal produce.
Crepes, frites, waffles, and other classic Northern snacks available near market areas and plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' (hello) when entering shops; say 'Merci' to staff. A polite, friendly demeanor is valued.
French is the primary language; basic phrases help. English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere.
Being on time for appointments or meals is appreciated; casual timing is common in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Escaudain
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in the bill (service compris). A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for very good service.
Cash and cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; great for walking, outdoor markets, and fresh produce; occasional showers.
Warm days and long evenings; enjoy outdoor cafés, riverside strolls, and local fêtes; stay hydrated.
Crisp air and fall colors; harvest markets and cozy cafés become focal points; layering is key.
Cool to cold temperatures with shorter days; Christmas markets and indoor cultural venues offer warmth and atmosphere.
Escaudain at Night
Hiking in Escaudain
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails along the Scarpe and Escaut rivers with varied scenery and wildlife viewing.
Gentle loops through fields and small woodlands suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Escaudain by plane.
Regional airport with domestic and some international flights; strong ground connections to the area.
Major international hub with frequent flights; reachable by rail or road from northern France.
Large international airport; ideal for long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Growing families and workers who commute to nearby towns for work and education.
Residents connected to nearby universities or training centers and local businesses.
Established residents who value the town’s quiet pace and local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed in the region; local clubs provide opportunities to watch or participate.
Popular for both daily rides and scenic long-distance routes through rural areas.
Common in local clubs and public courts; accessible for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Escaudain.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vegetable stews, seasonal salads, and cheese-based dishes like maroilles; most restaurants can adapt dishes on request.