Hougoumont (properly Château d'Hougoumont) is a walled farmhouse compound southwest of the main battlefield, and its defence was one of the most critical engagements of 18 June 1815. French forces attacked the compound repeatedly throughout the day, and a small Allied garrison — primarily British and German Guards — held it against enormous pressure. The fighting around Hougoumont tied down thousands of French troops who were badly needed elsewhere.
The site has been extensively restored and is freely accessible. The ruined chapel, with its painted Christ figure that miraculously survived the fire that destroyed the rest of the building, is the most striking feature. The walled garden, the orchards, and the surrounding fields still look much as they did in 1815. Interpretive panels explain the fighting at each point. Allow an hour to walk the site properly.