1. The division remained in line north of Ypres during the winter of 1914–15, alternating with the 54th Reserve Division in the sector Broodseinde-Polygon wood.
2. It took part in the second battle of Ypres, near Frezenberg and Gravenstafel, where it again lost heavily.
3. In June it occupied the sector of Wytchaete-St. Éloi and returned northeast of Ypres (Verlorenhoek) in the middle of July.
Champagne and Flanders.
4. At the beginning of October the 105th Reserve Brigade was sent to Champagne to reenforce the lines near Tahure. The 106th Reserve Brigade took over the sector of the Lys.
5. In November the division was regrouped and sent to rest in the vicinity of Ingelmunster (north of Courtrai). It remained behind the front during the winter of 1915–16 in the vicinity of Roulers.
1916.
La Bassee.
1. At the end of March, 1916, the 53d Reserve Division left Flanders and went into line on both banks of the La Bassee Canal.