Normandy Way Stories

Location	Venue	Description	History
Langrune-sur-Mer	Langrune-sur-Mer	A bustling seafront with a beach that is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities. Nicknamed "the children's beach," it offers the perfect setting for building sandcastles! Additionally it is a popular destination for water sports, particularly kitesurfing. During the Battle of Normandy it was the location of a German strongpoint and was fiercely defended. These strongpoints even included villas on the seafront, some of which had been fortified.	No.48 Commando, the last commando unit formed during WWII, landed on Juno Beach on D-Day under Lieutenant Colonel James Moulton, tasked with capturing a German strongpoint at Langrune-sur-Mer. Facing heavy fire from strongpoint WN27, only half the unit initially made it off the beach, with significant casualties, including most of the Troop Commanders. After regrouping and advancing through a minefield under fire, they were supported by naval gunfire and Royal Marine Centaurs but struggled to breach fortified defenses. The objective was captured by the afternoon, but the unit suffered heavy losses, with only 223 effective personnel remaining out of 440.
Juno Beach Centre	Courseulles-sur-Mer	The town has a charming harbour, which is home to Aux Régal de l’Île, a family-run establishment renowned for its delicious oysters. We highly recommend reserving your seafood platters 24 hours in advance. Courseulles’ famous oysters are grown for a minimum of 3 to 4 years before being refined in clear water pools. The Juno Beach Centre is a family-friendly area with plenty of activities from river kayaking to paddleboarding and beachside fun.	The village of Courseulles-sur-Mer was heavily defended by German strongpoints during the Normandy landings, but Canadian forces successfully secured their objectives despite heavy resistance. The Royal Winnipeg Rifles and the Regina Rifle Regiment, supported by tanks from the 6th Armoured Regiment, faced intense fire as they landed and fought to capture fortified positions like WN29 and WN31. Despite significant casualties, the Canadians pushed inland, securing key locations such as Graye-sur-Mer, Ste. Croix-sur-Mer, and Creully by evening. Today, the Juno Beach Centre stands as a museum and remembrance site for the Canadian forces, commemorating their sacrifices and achievements on D-Day.
Arromanches-les-Bains	Mulberry B	Arromanches-les-Bains is a picturesque coastal town, known for its role in the D-Day landings. You can explore remnants of the Mulberry Harbour, an ingenious floating port that was vital for the Allied invasion, and visit the excellent D-Day Museum to learn about its history. With its charming beaches, scenic cliffs, and quaint shops and restaurants, the town offers a mix of historical significance and seaside relaxation.	Mulberry B was an artificial harbour constructed by the Allies. It consisted of floating piers, known as "Mulberry Harbours," which were towed across the Channel from England to the shores of Normandy. These floating harbours were made up of huge concrete caissons, codenamed "Phoenix" units, which were sunk to form a breakwater and provide a protected area for the harbour. Phoenix units were filled with seawater to submerge them and create stable platforms. Once the breakwater was established, "Whale" units (floating roadways) and "Gooseberry" units (floating piers) were installed to create the harbour facilities. These components allowed for the unloading of supplies, vehicles, and troops directly onto the beaches, enabling a more efficient supply chain for the advancing Allied forces, directly to the combat zones during the critical early stages. The harbour was operational from June 17, 1944, until November 19, 1944, when it was severely damaged by a storm.
Port-en-Bessin-Huppain	Port-en-Bessin	Port-en-Bessin is known for its rich history and maritime heritage. The port area still retains its charm, with colourful fishing boats, picturesque waterfront houses, and bustling activity. One of the notable attractions in Port-en-Bessin is the Saint-André church. Built at the end of the 19th century, this church stands on the site of an ancient 12th-century sanctuary. Inside, you can discover a collection of model ships, offered by sailors who survived shipwrecks and several statues that are classified as Historical Monuments. The town is also home to a significant historical site – the artillery tower of Port-en-Bessin. Constructed in 1694, this tower was built to protect the port from Anglo-Dutch naval raids during the War of the League of Augsburg. It is an excellent example of military architecture from that era.	The 47 Commando Memorial in Port-en-Bessin is a tribute to the British 47 Royal Marine Commando who played a significant role in the liberation of Port-en-Bessin during World War II. The memorial is located on top of the cliffs to the west of the port, standing on a German Fire Control Post, which is part of Widerstandsnest 57. This gives visitors a panoramic view over the fishing port town. On June 6 and 7, 1944, the 47 Royal Marine Commando, as part of the Normandy landings, embarked on a mission to capture Port-en-Bessin. The town had strategic importance as it would become the main port for fuel deliveries to Normandy until Cherbourg was liberated.
Colleville-sur-Mer	Normandy American Memorial	Omaha Beach’s reputation has been perpetuated through various media formats. Films like “The Longest Day” and Steven Spielberg’s “Saving Private Ryan” depicted the dramatic and harrowing events of the D-Day landings, notably including the intense events at Omaha Beach. The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial features a semicircular colonnade with a loggia at each end, displaying large maps and narratives of the military operations. At the heart of the memorial, there is a prominent bronze statue known as “Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves”. This cemetery was dedicated on July 19, 1956, and serves as the final resting place for 9,388 military personnel, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and subsequent operations.	Colleville-sur-Mer played a significant role in the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy. From the cliff face, you are standing overlooking ‘Omaha’ Beach. Several factors contributed to Omaha Beach’s prominence. Firstly, it was the primary location where a significant number of American soldiers landed, nearly twice the number that landed at Utah Beach – the other American landing zone. Secondly, the Battle of Omaha Beach was exceptionally demanding and resulted in considerable losses. The intense German defences, including fortified positions, machine gun nests, and artillery emplacements, made the landing particularly challenging and resulted in approximately 5,000 American casualties.
Vierville-sur-Mer	Vierville-sur-Mer	With its picturesque coastal location, Vierville-sur-Mer also attracts visitors who come to enjoy its beautiful beaches, explore the history of the area, and understand the significance of the events that took place there during World War II. Today, Vierville-sur-Mer serves as a reminder to the soldiers who fought there. If you’ve built up an appetite, when it comes to food specialties in Vierville-sur-Mer, there are several options to try. A popular destination is L’Embuscade, which offers French and American cuisine. It is known for its quick bites, including dishes like burgers and traditional French fare.	The town has various sites and memorials dedicated to the events of D-Day, including the 29th Infantry Division Memorial. The memorial consists of a bronze statue of a soldier in full combat gear, standing approximately ten feet tall, and facing the sea. You can visit the Musée D-Day Omaha. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of the D-Day invasion and the role played by the American forces on Omaha Beach. It showcases a wide range of artifacts, including vehicles, weapons, and personal items from the soldiers who participated.
Grandcamp Maisy	The Maisy Battery	Located between the famous D-Day landing beaches of Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, Grandcamp-Maisy is a picturesque village and fishing port. Known for its thriving seafood industry, visitors can enjoy a wide range of delicacies such as scallops, fresh fish, and even shrimp caught during low tide. Don’t forget your binoculars as you may spot a seal colony. And if you look to the east, about 2 miles away, you’ll see the rocky promontory known as Pointe du Hoc.	The Maisy Battery refers to a group of artillery batteries constructed by the German Wehrmacht and was part of Germany’s Atlantic Wall coastal fortifications. The Maisy Battery remained hidden and buried for over 60 years until it was rediscovered by a British military historian who purchased the site and converted it into a museum featuring trenches, bunkers, and historical artifacts from the war. The site includes several casemates, an accommodation block, and a trench system. The significance of the Maisy Battery lies in its size and previously unknown features. The sheer scale of the site raises questions about its absence from Allied records and the effectiveness of its camouflage.
Isigny-sur-Mer	Isigny-sur-Mer	Isigny-sur-Mer, a charming and bustling market town in Normandy, is renowned for its gastronomic heritage and is particularly famous for its butter, cream, and cheese, which hold the prestigious "AOC" (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) designation. It is also known for its delicious caramels and oysters. These AOC products, considered the white gold of the region, are a must-try for visitors. Isigny-sur-Mer holds its market days on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering a wide variety of local products.	During World War II, Isigny-sur-Mer was occupied by Ukrainian soldiers who belonged to Ost-Battalion 439, part of the German 352nd Infantry Division under the command of Hauptmann Hans Becker. Sadly, the town suffered significant destruction, with over 60% of it being destroyed by two bombardments on June 8th, 1944. However, the liberation of Isigny-sur-Mer came swiftly, as it was an important objective for the Allies. The town was liberated on June 9th, 1944. Image Credit: Collection Rodger Hamilton: The War Photos
Carentan les Marais	Tucker Bailey Bridge	The website link gives you a clip from Band of Brothers – Battle of Carentan. This HBO series depicts the incredible journey of Easy Company, which was part of the 506th Regiment in the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. Drawing from interviews with surviving members of Easy Company, as well as soldiers' journals and letters, this 10-part series offers a compelling narrative of the remarkable courage and intense fear experienced by these young soldiers. The series is based on the book written by Stephen Ambrose.	The Bailey Bridge at Carentan, also known as the Tucker Bailey Bridge, was constructed over the River Taute in June 1944 to replace the original bridge destroyed by retreating Germans. Carentan is the junction point between Utah and Omaha, two of the D-Day beaches in Normandy where our troops landed on June 6, 1944. This connection was crucial to establishing a unified American front in Normandy. The Bridge is named after Major John E. Tucker, the commanding officer of the 300th Engineer Combat Battalion. Major Tucker and his men were responsible for repairing bridges and infrastructure in liberated areas with this bridge being one of those crucial infrastructures that facilitated movement and logistics. On June 27, 1944, while overseeing the reconstruction of the bridge over the Taute in Carentan, Major Tucker was tragically killed by German bombardment and is buried in the American cemetery of Colleville sur Mer, alongside his brother Billy, who was killed on Omaha Beach.
Sainte-Marie-du-Mont	La Madeleine	La Madeleine was the site of strongpoints manned by German troops, which were obstacles for the American forces. La Madeleine was eventually cleared by the end of the day, with thousands of troops and vehicles landing on Utah Beach. Today, La Madeleine is a peaceful village surrounded by farmland and is a popular destination for visitors interested in the history of the D-Day invasion. Image Credit: Nusa Urbancek	On D-Day, American forces from the US 4th Division landed on Utah Beach near the village of La Madeleine, but navigational challenges caused them to land 2,500 meters south of their intended targets. This error proved advantageous, as the enemy defenses were weaker in this area, allowing troops to quickly capture key strongpoints like WN5 and WN7 with support from air, naval bombardment, and tanks. Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., who landed with the first wave, personally reconnoitered the area, coordinated the attack, and identified routes inland. By evening, 23,000 men and 1,700 vehicles had landed, with relatively low casualties of 200, demonstrating a successful start to the invasion.
Saint-Marcouf	Crisbecq Battery	Saint-Marcouf was occupied by German forces and was a strategic location in the Battle of Normandy. The Batterie de Crisbecq/Marine Küsten Batterie ‘Marcouf’, was a coastal fortification and part of the Atlantic Wall defence system. Today, the Crisbecq Battery is one of the preserved historical sites, providing a tour of its 22 underground blockhouses, which have been restored to resemble their original condition. Here you can see visualise the immense structures and strategic firepower of the German forces.	The Utah Beach sector was defended by numerous heavy batteries, including the formidable Crisbecq naval battery, which had powerful coastal guns, anti-aircraft weapons, and extensive fortifications. On the night of 5–6 June, Allied bombers targeted Crisbecq, killing some of the garrison, but the site remained operational and opened fire on the Allied fleet on D-Day, sinking USS Corry. Despite losing two of its large guns in naval duels throughout the day, the battery resisted repeated American assaults, including a major attack on 8 June that was repelled by its defenders. Short on ammunition and medical supplies, the German garrison evacuated under cover of darkness on 11–12 June, leaving the site abandoned and American prisoners behind. Post-battle examinations revealed the remarkable resilience of Crisbecq’s casemates, with most damage caused by postwar explosives testing rather than the D-Day fighting.
Sainte-Mère-Église	Sainte-Mère-Église	As you explore Sainte-Mère-Église, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The town’s main attraction is its beautiful church, which dates back to the 11th century when local nobleman William of Sainte-Mère-Église, who played a significant role during the reign of Richard the Lionheart, was crowned bishop of London in 1199. The Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église is the largest museum in Europe dedicated to American paratroopers and a must-see. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine here. Indulge in traditional Normandy dishes, such as creamy Camembert cheese washed down with apple cider.	Sainte-Mère-Église is famous for being one of the first towns liberated by American forces during the D-Day landings of World War II. It became particularly well-known because of paratrooper John Steele, whose parachute got caught on the church steeple during the night of the invasion, leaving him dangling as he pretended to be dead to avoid being shot. Today, you can still see a dummy paratrooper hanging from the church as a reminder of that historic event. The invasion of France marked the largest use of airborne troops at the time, with 13,000 paratroopers. Despite challenging weather and heavy flak, they achieved the best drop accuracy and hold the distinction of capturing Sainte-Mère-Église, a strategic road junction. Image Credit: Elliesram13
Sainte-Marie-du-Mont	Sainte Marie du Mont	Sainte-Marie-du-Mont is one of our favourite circular and picturesque town centres with its 11th century Église Notre-Dame de Sainte-Marie-du-Mont and eateries. Just on the outskirts is the beautiful Monument de la Résistance Française dedicated to the French Resistance during World War II, overlooking the countryside. The monument was created at the initiative of Captain Joseph Ivanov of the US Special Forces and worth a look. Sainte-Marie-du-Mont was the site of a significant military engagement on June 6, 1944. Today, it maintains its charm within its location on the Cotentin peninsula, and provides access to beautiful outdoor views, including the Baie des Veys.	On D-Day, the village of Saint-Marie-du-Mont was liberated after fierce fighting between American 101st Airborne Division and the German Wehrmacht. The nearby Holdy Battery, which housed 60 German troops and four 105mm howitzers, was a key target for the Allies. The 101st Airborne Division, dropped near the village, faced scattered landings due to fog and flak, but still succeeded in securing vital objectives. Captain Lloyd E. Patch and Captain Knut H. Raudstein led an assault on the Holdy Battery, capturing the howitzers after intense fighting. After a day of continued combat, the village was fully liberated, but the 101st Airborne Division suffered heavy casualties, with one-third of its men wounded or killed. Image Credit: Fondation de la Résistance The weblink will take you to France24, 'Looking back at the rise of the French Resistance'
Carentan	Normandy Victory Museum	Carentan's combination of historical landmarks, marina and its proximity to significant sites make it a pretty and worthwhile visit for those interested in exploring the town and broader region of Normandy. Historically marked by significant visitors, King Henry I of England, (fourth son of William the Conqueror), Henry II of England with Thomas Becket (notably assassinated as the Archbishop of Canterbury) and King John, of 'Robin Hood' fame. The English kings considered Normandy an important feudal possession influencing a strong cultural presence on both sides of the channel. Located in Carentan, the Normandy Victory Museum, also known as the Battle of the Hedges Museum, has become a destination for visitors exploring the D-Day landing sites. This museum highlights the often overlooked Battle of the Hedges and how this battle played a vital role for allies. With immersive exhibits, personal stories, and a comprehensive collection of artifacts, the museum provides a unique visit.	Carentan, a critical transport hub in the Allied invasion of France, was strategically significant for controlling access to the Cotentin Peninsula. The town's defenses were bolstered by waterways, destroyed bridges, and flooded marshlands, making it challenging for American forces to advance. The 101st Airborne Division faced fierce resistance from German forces, including elite troops of the 6th Fallschirmjäger Regiment, as they launched attacks on key positions like Hill 30 and bridges over the Douve River. Intense combat, including close-range fighting and heavy casualties, culminated in the capture of Carentan by 12 June 1944, with the Germans withdrawing during the night. The town was defended against a counterattack by German reinforcements on 13 June, with US forces, supported by tanks and artillery, securing their position and breaking the enemy’s advance.
Cerisy-la-Forêt	Abbaye Saint Vigor	The Abbaye de Cerisy, also known as Abbaye Saint-Vigor, is an architectural gem founded in 1032 by Duke Robert the Magnificent and dedicated to Saint Vigor, the Bishop of Bayeux. The area is tied to local legend—Saint Vigor is said to have subdued a dragon by tying a scarf around its neck, leading to the establishment of the abbey. The abbey’s 14th-century Abbot’s Chapel echoes the style of Paris’s Sainte-Chapelle. Today, it stands as a testament to Norman Romanesque architecture.	The surrounding Cerisy Forest was once seen as a threat to locals due to legends of dragons. The abbey played a spiritual and architectural role in anchoring the Christian order in Normandy. Its continued presence links Normandy’s medieval past with its layered WWII legacy, as nearby sites were also affected by wartime campaigns.
Le Molay-Littry	Chateau of Molay	The Chateau of Molay-Littry is surrounded by woodlands and was used by the Germans during WWII as a base for their V-weapon program. Generalleutnant Dietrich Kraiss commanded the area until he was fatally struck by friendly fire at Omaha Beach. He was posthumously awarded the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves.	The V2 rocket was Nazi Germany’s first ballistic missile, launched in 1944 as a "vengeance weapon." The chateau area was part of this secret project. Though never launched from here, the site underscores the dark technological ambitions of the era. For context, see ‘Terrifying German Revenge Weapons’ via IWM.
Bayeux	Bayeux Cathedral	Bayeux was the second-largest city in Normandy in 924 AD. Its cathedral, completed during the reign of William the Conqueror, is where the Bayeux Tapestry was originally displayed. It holds historical significance for both Norman and English history and showcases stunning Romanesque architecture.	During D-Day, Bayeux was the first city liberated by Allied forces and played a vital role in field hospitals and logistics. On June 14th, Charles de Gaulle delivered his iconic speech here. The cathedral and city emerged largely undamaged, making it a symbolic cornerstone of post-invasion France.
Bayeux	Bayeux Tapestry	The Bayeux Tapestry is an embroidered cloth nearly 70 meters long, depicting the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It was likely created between 1067 and 1079 by embroiderers in Canterbury. It tells the story of Harold, Earl of Wessex, and William, Duke of Normandy, through vivid scenes of battle, ceremony, and medieval life. It’s an irreplaceable visual record of Anglo-Saxon and Norman culture.	The tapestry is more than art—it’s a medieval narrative in thread, showcasing tactics, weaponry, clothing, and customs. For Waytrails explorers, it’s the deep backstory to what became the Norman domination of England and a key piece of Norman-French identity.
Audrieu	Le Chateau D’Audrieu	Le Chateau D’Audrieu, now a luxury hotel, was the site of wartime tragedy. In June 1944, 26 Allied POWs, including Canadians and Brits, were executed by the 12th SS Panzer Division. These executions were part of the Normandy Massacres and are remembered through multiple memorials on-site.	Kurt Meyer, who commanded the division responsible, was the only officer convicted for the Normandy Massacres. The memorials here are stark reminders that the cost of war extends far beyond the battlefield. Visiting this place offers not just history—but perspective.
Cheux	Cheux Saint Manvieu-Norrey	Cheux sits quietly in the Normandy countryside, but it saw some of the fiercest WWII fighting during Operation EPSOM. It’s also home to the Saint-Manvieu War Cemetery, with more than 1,500 burials. This was a key Canadian and British battle zone, fought house by house.	On June 26, 1944, Churchill Crocodile flamethrower tanks were deployed to take Cheux from German defenders. After two brutal weeks, the town was finally captured. Today, its cemetery is a solemn place of reflection, and the nearby fields once soaked in combat now speak to resilience.
Caen	Caen Castle	Built around 1060 by William the Conqueror, Caen Castle served as a royal residence and fortress. It includes the 12th-century Église St-Georges and a civic building dating back to 1100. The ramparts provide panoramic views of the town and tell of Caen’s importance through centuries of war and resilience.	During D-Day, Caen was a major Allied objective due to its strategic location. British forces of the 3rd Infantry Division encountered heavy resistance from the 21st Panzer Division, turning Caen into a prolonged urban battlefield. The Allies fought weeks beyond D-Day to gain control.
Caen	Musée de Caen	The Caen Memorial Museum commemorates WWII and the Battle for Caen. It explores not only D-Day, but the broader story of 20th-century conflict, peace, and resistance. A must-visit for understanding the depth of Normandy’s sacrifice and survival.	Through powerful exhibitions and archives, the museum sheds light on both the local battles and the global war. It is a place of learning and reflection, ideal for anyone walking or cycling the Normandy Way who wants to understand what happened beyond the headlines.
Bénouville	Pegasus Bridge	Pegasus Bridge, named after the 6th Airborne Division’s emblem, was taken by glider troops just after midnight on D-Day. The assault—Operation DEADSTICK—secured the bridges and cut off German reinforcements to the beaches. Today, monuments and a museum in Bénouville honour this bold mission.	“Christ, there’s the bridge”—and down they went. Skidding across ground under fire, troops of the 2nd Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry landed and fought their way off the gliders. Pegasus Bridge was theirs by dawn. The café nearby, used as a command post, remains as a tribute.