James Kerr
Painter
Tynecot Cemetery
Battlefield Tours
Following the publication of several books on the First World War I have developed a deep fascination and interest in military history, this combined with my experiences as a former infantry officer I am able to impart my knowledge with enthusiasm and depth of the subject to others.
There is no doubt that to witness the places where so much took place, to see the folds, ridges and scars on the landscape, to view the villages, woods and memorials is the best way to really understand what happened. Family history, or other connections can be researched and woven into the bigger picture to create a moving and personal tour bespoke to a particular group.
I take occasional private tours to the Western Front, Gallipoli and elsewhere. I do not advertise or market myself (except here) but rely on word of mouth and recommendation. Whether you are a large or small party, I would love to take you there. Hotels, meals and travel arrangements are flexible and can be arranged on a per tour basis according to your budget and inclinations.
If you are considering a trip to the battlefields,
On our battlefields tour of the Somme and Ypres James was able to bring to life what for me had previously been a history lesson.
Standing in a depression, looking over the top at the objective 500 yards away across a beautiful field of wheat, hearing and seeing where the mine blew up a few minutes early and where the enemy machine guns were mounted and imagining what it felt like to hear the whistle go off and having to go over the top with your fellow friends and soldiers was a very moving experience.
James was able to impart a huge amount of knowledge in a very interesting and moving way.
Travel arrangements including coach, hotels, drinks and dinner all worked well. I would have no hesitation in recommending him but be ready to have a quiet weep.'
Rodney Style , Oxfordshire
'James guided twenty five of us on a three day tour of the WW1 battlefields in Belgium and France and gave us a very insightful, professional and detailed account of the Great War. It is a humbling experience and we were lucky to learn first hand from a person well versed on the subject.'
James Whitmore, Master Grocer's Company
'Having a guide made all the difference and hugely enhanced our understanding of these terrible events. James was not only consummately professional but was also able to personalise the tour for us, showing us exactly where our forebears had fought and what each side was trying to achieve.'
David Howard
(James took 11 of us in October 2019)