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Registration for the Mallard Walking Tour is possible from 1 January 2026 by clicking here.
Commemoration of the Liberation of Zeeland
Saturday, 31 October 2026
The Mallard Walking Tour is a special occasion to reflect on the liberation of Zeeland and the events of the Second World War. This walking tour, taking place on Saturday 31 October 2026, offers people of all ages the opportunity to experience Zeeland’s rich history. The route takes you past historical sites and monuments that commemorate the battles, the courage, and the sacrifices of the liberators. The start and finish point of the tour is the Bevrijdingsmuseum Zeeland, where you can park and enjoy a snack and drink before and after the walk.
The Story Behind Operation Mallard
The walk is named after Operation Mallard, the nighttime crossing of the Sloe by British troops from the 156th and 157th Infantry Battalions, supported by Force Troops (“Burnsforce”) from the 52nd (Lowland) Infantry Division. This operation took place from November 2 to 4, 1944, and aimed to establish a bridgehead south of the Sloedam, allowing the Allies to advance into Walcheren. The crossing was a dangerous undertaking, with the Germans heavily firing on the Allied bridgehead. Fortunately, Typhoon aircraft were able to bombard the German positions, enabling further advancement.
Suitable for Everyone
<The Mallard Walk is accessible to participants of all ages and levels. There are different distances, so everyone can join at their own pace. Younger participants (< 12 years) will be transported by World War II vehicles to the Sloedam and will walk the final 6 kilometers back to the museum. Due to limited seating, it is important to register in advance for transportation.
What You Can Expect
The walk offers a unique experience where you will not only discover beautiful surroundings but also experience the story of the liberation of Zeeland. Along the way, you will encounter various memorials and monuments, each referring to events from the war years. The walk begins with a solemn commemoration at the monuments on the Sloedam (starting at 10:30 AM), where wreaths will be laid to honor the victims of the war.
The route has been carefully planned so that you not only walk through a beautiful part of Zeeland but also pass by places that played an important role in the liberation. At the route points on the map, you will be reminded of the war years and the significance of the locations you pass.
The walk is available in different distances, allowing both young and older participants to join. More information about the available distances can be found on the detailed page ‘Distances’.
Do you have questions about the walk? Then check out our FAQ page for answers to frequently asked questions.
The Mallard Walk is made possible by our sponsors. We thank them for their support! More information about the sponsors can be found on the ‘Sponsors’ page.
