The ‘Revers de la Médaille’ Museum
During the Battle of Waterloo, the Duke of Wellington decided to establish his field hospital at the Mont-Saint-Jean Farm. Nearly 6,000 soldiers were treated there during and after the Battle of Waterloo. This former hospital, which was hardly ever sanitised, is now a place where you can discover the work of surgeons during wartime, the surgical instruments used, the weapons, uniforms and ammunition, etc., with a recontextualisation of the impressive facts. The broader history of the farm is also presented.
The John Martin Microbrewery
Having heard that the beer of Waterloo restored strength and bravery to those who drank it, the Duke of Wellington allowed his men to drink some to bring them strength and courage on the eve of the battle. With the English victory on 18 June 1815, the legend of Waterloo was born.
Today, a microbrewery has been set up at the Mont-Saint-Jean Farm. Waterloo beer is brewed there by hand. Try the Waterloo Triple Blonde, Strong Dark, Cuvée Impériale or Harvest and deepen your knowledge of brewing and the world of beer during a guided tour. There’s a chance to taste some at the end of the tour!
And Its Micro-Distillery
A micro-distillery has also been set up at the Mont-Saint-Jean Farm. Today, this place is rediscovering a tradition of yesteryear by distilling high quality gin and whisky. The process, which copies that of the farmers of the Middle Ages, is 100% hand-crafted.
At that time, there was already a distillery on the site as it was an efficient way of processing out-of-date beer. It is said that the English soldiers had left behind barrels of Whisky and Gin at the farm.
Don’t forget to taste the brand new whisky available this year.
Did you know?
Waterloo beer is the main ingredient in Waterloo gin and whisky. The only difference is that the whisky distillate is not altered by anything whatsoever, while various spices and herbs are added during the manufacturing process to enhance the taste of the gin.
The Mont-Saint-Jean Farm, it’s also…
You will find a superb shop displaying many local products, such as beers, gins, Belgian specialities and even a corner dedicated to Tintin!
The magnificent orchards surrounding the estate are worth a visit and many varieties of apples are listed there.
The Orangery and the farm’s Barn can be rented for all types of events, both private and professional.
Many activities are organised at the Mont-Saint-Jean Farm. Don’t miss the Guinness Celtic Rock Festival in March, the Waterloo Viking Days in May, the Waterloo Historical Trail in June and the Apéros during the summer!
Practical information
British Ambulance
Chaussée de Charleroi, 5911410 Waterloo
Tel. +3223850103
Visit language : English, French
Accessible People with limited mobility
Opening
Visit of the museum: from Wednesday to Saterday: from 10am to 7pm and on Sunday: from 9am to 7pm. Dogs not allowed.
Guided tours of the micro-brewery and the micro-distillery (in French or in English on demand): from Wednesday to Sunday on 3 pm.
In groups: by reservation from Wednesday to Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 4:30 p.m.
Prices
Visit of the museum: 5€/person
Guided tour of the micro-brewery: €15/adult
An overlooked place, full of history, authenticity and charm.
An unmissable location.