The source of the Kilienne brings together several notable features of Warlincourt-Lès-Pas: the river rises here, the Saint-Kilien Chapel stands above the source, and walks are described in this area. The river’s former use to power mills and cultural traces dating from the 12th century to the First World War also add to the picture. This makes local history and outdoor exploration the clear focus of a stay here.
The Kilienne: source and former mills
The Kilienne, also known as the Quilienne or rivière de Pas, rises in Warlincourt-lès-Pas. On its course from the source to its confluence with the Authie at Thièvres, it once powered up to seven mills. The figure “up to seven” refers to the entire length of the river, not just its source. Warlincourt marks the beginning of the river course described here, and Thièvres its endpoint at the Authie. The names Quilienne and rivière de Pas also refer to the Kilienne, not to other waterways. Anyone exploring the river’s former use to power mills can distinguish between the local source and the river’s longer course.
Saint-Kilien: building history and local tradition
The Saint-Kilien Chapel stands above the source on foundations dating from the 12th century. After it was destroyed during the Revolution, it was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style in 1865. Two building phases are therefore represented: the 12th-century foundations and the later reconstruction in 1865. The source of Saint-Kilien also has a place in local tradition. According to belief, its water, together with a novena to Saint-Kilien, could ease stiff limbs and help children who are late to learn to walk. This story is part of local tradition. It is distinct from the chapel’s documented dates, which offer a different perspective on Saint-Kilien’s history.
A visit is documented for a past date: on 20 September 2020, Saint-Kilien Church was open for free, self-guided visits as part of the European Heritage Days programme.
Findspot and historic sites
The Trésor des Atrébates comes from Warlincourt in the Pas-de-Calais département and is kept at the Musée d’Archéologie National. Its origin and place of safekeeping are therefore two different locations: the treasure’s local connection is Warlincourt, while it is kept in the museum. This is a useful distinction when exploring the area’s archaeological heritage.
Another historical trace leads to La Bellevue. The site is associated with the history of aerial warfare in Artois during the First World War, 1914–1918. La Bellevue is in the commune of Warlincourt-lès-Pas, at the crossroads of the D127 and D25. While Saint-Kilien is associated with building history and local tradition, La Bellevue points to a different chapter in the area’s history.
Walks and trout fishing
Suggested walks include a woodland walk at the source of Saint-Kilien and a short, idyllic walk at the source of the Kilienne. The description of the short walk was updated on 7 December 2023. The two descriptions offer different starting points for exploring the area around the springs, without specifying a walking time. Trout fishing is another listed activity: La Kilienne in Warlincourt-lès-Pas is listed as having 26 private trout-fishing stretches. As the facilities and access conditions may change, check them before visiting to fish.
Camping and stays
An entry updated on 18 August 2026 lists a covered, heated swimming pool and fishing ponds at the site. Alongside the river’s history, the chapel and the walking opportunities, these verified local features provide a factual basis for choosing where to stay: you can focus on the historical themes of Saint-Kilien and La Bellevue, or consider the source and the activities described there.
Discover more destinations: Gouy-Saint-André, Farbus, Morval, Fauquembergues, Loison-Sur-Créquoise, Ruminghem, Vaulx, Peuplingues.
For the wider travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.
