Bayeux War Cemetery

Bayeux War Cemetery – Normandy Travel Guide

The Bayeux War Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth military cemetery in France and a powerful tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Normandy in World War II. Located just outside the historic center of Bayeux, the cemetery contains over 4,000 graves of servicemen from the United Kingdom and other Allied nations. With its immaculate lawns, white headstones, and the nearby memorial wall, the Bayeux War Cemetery is a solemn and moving place that invites quiet reflection and remembrance.

Why Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery

• Historical Significance: This site honors those who fell in the early stages of the Normandy invasion, particularly around the D-Day landings of June 6, 1944.
• Largest British Cemetery in France: The cemetery includes 4,144 Commonwealth graves, as well as graves of German and other Allied soldiers.
• Bayeux Memorial: Adjacent to the cemetery, the memorial wall lists the names of more than 1,800 Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave.
• Peaceful Setting: Manicured hedges and tranquil pathways create a respectful and contemplative space for visitors to honor the fallen.
• Accessible to All: Entry is free, and the cemetery is wheelchair accessible, with bilingual signage in English and French.

Ticket Information for Bayeux War Cemetery

• Admission: Free for all visitors
• Opening Hours: Open daily, year-round (typically dawn to dusk)
• Guided Tours: No ticket required; the site is self-guided. Some local tours may include the cemetery as part of a broader WWII itinerary.
• Group Visits: Large groups may contact the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) in advance for guidance or educational materials.

Best Time to Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery

The cemetery is open year-round and is especially poignant to visit around D-Day anniversaries (June 6th) when ceremonies are held. Mornings and late afternoons offer a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful light for photography. Spring and summer bring blooming flowers to the cemetery grounds, enhancing the setting’s quiet beauty.

How to Get to the Bayeux War Cemetery

• Location: 1945 Boulevard Fabian Ware, 14400 Bayeux, France
• By Foot: About a 15-minute walk from Bayeux’s city center or 10 minutes from the Bayeux Tapestry Museum.
• By Train: Bayeux is accessible via train from Caen or Paris (via Caen); the cemetery is a 20-minute walk from the station.
• By Car: Free parking is available nearby, and the site is well-marked with signs from the town center.

Tips for Visiting the Bayeux War Cemetery

• Allow Time to Reflect: This is not a rushed visit—give yourself time to walk the grounds and read the names and epitaphs.
• Visit the Information Panel: At the entrance, you’ll find historical context and layout information for your self-guided visit.
• Pair With a WWII Tour: Combine your visit with other WWII sites in the region like Omaha Beach, the British Normandy Memorial, or the Arromanches Museum.
• Be Respectful: This is a place of remembrance. Speak softly, avoid loud phone conversations, and dress modestly.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Bayeux War Cemetery

The Bayeux War Cemetery is one of the most moving sites in Normandy. It reminds visitors of the human cost of liberation and the sacrifices made by thousands of young soldiers. Whether you’re following the D-Day trail or simply paying your respects, this peaceful cemetery is an essential part of understanding Bayeux’s role in World War II and honoring the legacy of those who never returned home.