Le Rang du Beauregard, Lille

Historic Building in Lille

Lille Rang Du Beauregard — Lille rang du beauregard

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Velvet

Beauregard Row, or Le Rang du Beauregard, is one of those architectural treasures that immediately transports you back in time as you wander through Place du Théâtre. Its harmonious façade of arcades, brickwork, and mansard roofs sits elegantly alongside the Old Stock Exchange, creating a sense of unity that makes it one of the must-see places in Lille for anyone exploring the city's historic core. Built between 1685 and 1687, the row reflects a moment when Lille was redefining its architectural identity under French rule while still honoring its Flemish heritage.

The charm of Beauregard Row lies in its symmetry, its subtle detailing, and the stories embedded in its walls. From cannonballs left behind from the 1792 siege to nods toward earlier structures dating back to the 16th century, the ensemble offers layers of history that are often visited on walking tours of Lille by travelers keen to uncover the city's past. Its very name carries echoes of medieval viewpoints and Burgundian dukes, offering a poetic sense of continuity between eras.

History and Significance of Beauregard Row
Things to See and Do in Beauregard Row
How to Get to Beauregard Row
Practical Tips on Visiting Beauregard Row
Where to Stay close to Beauregard Row
Is Beauregard Row
FAQs for Visiting Beauregard Row
Nearby Attractions to Beauregard Row

History and Significance of Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Beauregard Row was built during a transformative period for Lille. Following the city's annexation to France in 1667, new construction was regulated to reflect a increasingly classical French aesthetic. The earlier timber-framed houses that once lined the street no longer aligned with these ambitions, prompting the city to commission a more unified architectural ensemble. Between 1685 and 1687, contractor Simon Vollant and architect Julien Destrée created a row of fourteen uniform houses that reflected the ideals of French classicism while still paying homage to local Flemish traditions.

The sandstone arcades on the ground floor, topped by brick-and-stone upper levels and classic mansard roofs, created a style that harmonized beautifully with the neighboring Old Stock Exchange. This blend of influences marked a shift in the city's identity, representing the integration of French royal style into a region long shaped by Flemish art and craftsmanship. Declared a historic monument in 1966, Beauregard Row remains one of the best places to visit in Lille for travelers interested in architectural evolution.

Adding to its historical intrigue is the name Beauregard, believed to have originated from a viewing platform built in 1425 by Philippe le Bon, Duke of Burgundy. Whether or not the platform stood exactly on the same site, the term “beauregard”-meaning “beautiful view”-captures the prominence of this location in the city's history. The twelve cannonballs still embedded in its right façade offer a dramatic reminder of the 1792 siege of Lille, when the city was bombarded with more than 30,000 projectiles during the French Revolutionary Wars.

Things to See and Do in Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Begin by admiring the row's façade, where the arcades create a rhythmic sequence of shadows that shift beautifully throughout the day. The uniform design of the fourteen houses invites comparison with the richly ornate Vieille Bourse opposite, offering one of the best perspectives on Lille's architectural duality. For photography, stepping back into Place du Théâtre gives you the perfect frame for capturing the entire ensemble.

Look closely at the right end of the row to spot the cannonballs still embedded in the walls. These unusual relics of the 1792 siege add a sense of drama and authenticity to the site. One even bears a humorous modern twist, having been painted pink and shaped like a breast by locals-a creative reminder of Lille’s enduring sense of playfulness.

Because Beauregard Row is part of one of the where to go in Lille when exploring Place du Théâtre, it is easy to combine a visit with nearby architectural landmarks, cafés, and cultural spaces. The area remains lively throughout the day, giving visitors the chance to enjoy both historical reflection and the upbeat tempo of central Lille.

How to Get to Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Beauregard Row is located on Place du Théâtre in the heart of Lille, making it easily accessible for most visitors. The nearest major airport is Lille Airport, just outside the city and well connected by shuttle bus or taxi. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lille on Booking.com. Travellers arriving by train can disembark at either Lille-Flandres or Lille-Europe stations, both a short walk from the site. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. If you prefer to arrive by car, several central parking garages provide convenient access to the historic centre and Place du Théâtre. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

The area is also well served by local buses and trams, and given the compact size of Lille's old town, walking is often the most pleasant way to reach Beauregard Row.

Practical Tips on Visiting Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Suggested tips: Visit in the late afternoon for the best light on the brick-and-stone façades.
Best time to visit: Weekdays and early mornings offer quieter views before Place du Théâtre fills with visitors.
Entrance fee: Viewing the façade is free.
Opening hours: The exterior is visible at all times.
Official website: Check Lille's tourism website for updates on guided-tours and nearby attractions.
How long to spend: Around 20-30 minutes is enough to appreciate the site and its details.
Accessibility: The square is flat and accessible, though arcades may be uneven in places.
Facilities: Public seating and cafés are available nearby, with restrooms in surrounding establishments.
Photography tip: Stand near the Old Stock Exchange to capture the full length of the row.
Guided tours: Many guided walks of Lille include Beauregard Row as a key stop.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and brasseries line the surrounding streets.

Where to Stay close to Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Staying close to Place du Théâtre puts you in the heart of Lille’s historic district. A classic option is Hôtel Carlton Lille, known for its elegant rooms and proximity to major landmarks. For a stylish modern stay, OKKO Hotels Lille Centre offers convenience and contemporary comfort. Travellers who prefer boutique charm may enjoy Grand Hotel Bellevue, which overlooks the Grand'Place and is only a short stroll from Beauregard Row.

Is Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard) Worth Visiting?

Beauregard Row is absolutely worth visiting, especially for travellers with an interest in architecture, history, or the evolution of urban design. Its harmonious Franco-Flemish style, intriguing historical layers, and unique details like the embedded cannonballs make it a memorable stop in Lille's city centre. Combined with its perfect location opposite the Vieille Bourse, it offers a rich sense of place that rewards both quick visits and deeper exploration.

FAQs for Visiting Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

The buildings are primarily private or commercial, so visits focus on the exterior architecture.

They are remnants of the 1792 siege of Lille and have been preserved as part of the building’s history.

Yes, the façades are often lit, providing lovely evening views.

Many walking tours of Lille include Beauregard Row as a key stop.

The surrounding square is flat and accessible, though some arcade surfaces may be uneven.

Nearby Attractions to Beauregard Row (Le Rang du Beauregard)

Vieille Bourse - A magnificent 17th-century courtyard surrounded by richly decorated arcades.
Lille Opera - A striking neoclassical theatre offering performances and guided visits.
Grand'Place - The main central square of Lille lined with historic buildings and lively cafés.
Rue de la Monnaie - A charming street in Old Lille filled with boutiques, bakeries, and galleries.
Palais des Beaux-Arts - One of France's premier fine art museums featuring extensive collections.

The Le Rang du Beauregard appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lille!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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