Jardin écologique de Lille

The Jardin écologique de Lille is a nature reserve in the historic quarter with woodland areas, shrubland, a pond, and the Tortue River running through land once enclosed by Vauban fortifications. The space contains diverse habitats including native vegetation and water features that have adapted to the historic fortified landscape.

In 1985 residents of the old quarter took over this abandoned land within Vauban fortifications and formed an association to manage it. This site became France's first ecological garden, demonstrating how unused urban spaces could be restored and returned to nature.

This space serves as a meeting point where local residents and visitors discover how nature thrives in the heart of the city, with native plants and creatures coexisting in their natural settings. The volunteer guides share knowledge about the woodland and wetland ecosystems that define the region.

This reserve is located at the end of Rue du Guet and opens only on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, maintained by volunteer efforts of the Association Lisiere(s). Visitors should expect limited hours and plan their visit accordingly to ensure access to the site.

The Tortue River is named after a 1708 military battle and was originally designed to drain wetlands from the neighboring areas of Lomme and Santes. Today this waterway demonstrates how a historical engineered feature became integrated into a modern nature conservation effort.

Location: Lille

Inception: 1986

GPS coordinates: 50.64950,3.05557

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:43