39-45 Museum, Dinan

Museum in Dinan

musee39 4
musee39 4
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fab5669

The 39-45 Museum, Léhon is one of the must-see places in Léhon for anyone drawn to military history or curious about the human stories behind the Second World War. Privately owned yet impressively curated, the museum brings together more than 6,000 items that vividly portray wartime life, technology, and resistance efforts. From artillery pieces to uniforms and rare vehicles, the collection immerses visitors in a chapter of history that continues to shape Europe.

The museum has earned a reputation for its unique, hands-on presentation style, allowing visitors to closely examine artifacts that are often inaccessible in larger institutions. A standout experience is the reconstructed WWII bunker, complete with a rare 47mm Skoda anti-tank gun-one of the last remaining examples in Europe. Combined with its Resistance-focused displays and well-documented stories, the museum is a highlight of any walking tour of Léhon for history enthusiasts.

History and Significance of 39-45 Museum, Léhon

Founded with passion and dedication, the 39-45 Museum was created to preserve personal and military heritage related to the Second World War. Its private ownership has allowed the collection to grow organically, shaped by decades of research, donations, and the owner's commitment to historical accuracy. The result is an extraordinary collection that spans weaponry, uniforms, printed materials, personal effects, and technological relics.

The museum also emphasises the role of the French Resistance, showcasing pamphlets, coded documentation, parachute containers, and S.A.S. artifacts. These items trace the clandestine networks that operated in Brittany and beyond, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for regional wartime history. Each piece tells a story of courage, secrecy, and sacrifice.

One of the museum’s most intriguing artifacts is an original English airplane engine displayed for the past twenty years. Its serial number, pilot identity, and associated wartime events were meticulously retraced through collaboration with a Breton aeronautical remembrance association and the British Ministry of Defence. This careful research reflects the museum’s mission: to preserve memory through both objects and stories.

Things to See and Do in 39-45 Museum, Léhon

Start your visit in the main exhibition hall, where the scale of the collection becomes immediately apparent. Over 30 authentic uniforms-representing various nationalities and military roles-are displayed with attention to detail, allowing visitors to compare materials, insignia, and wartime functionality. Artillery pieces and military equipment line the walls, offering a rare chance to encounter items often only seen in textbooks or photographs.

The reconstructed bunker is one of the top sights in Léhon for WWII enthusiasts. Designed to replicate an operational wartime environment, it includes functional components such as the 47mm Skoda anti-tank gun, communication devices, and bunker interior fittings. Its atmospheric presentation makes it particularly engaging for younger visitors and newcomers to military history.

The museum’s Resistance exhibits deepen the narrative, showcasing objects connected to espionage, sabotage, and covert operations. Pamphlets, personal stories, and field equipment all reflect the bravery of those who fought from the shadows. Don’t miss the aircraft engine display-complete with research documentation that reconstructs its historical journey from wartime skies to its present home.

How to Get to 39-45 Museum, Léhon

The nearest major gateway is Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, located about an hour's drive from Léhon. From the airport, onward travel by car or regional transport makes reaching Léhon straightforward. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dinan on Booking.com.

Regular trains run from Rennes and Saint-Malo to Dinan station, which is the closest railway stop to Léhon. From Dinan, it's a short walk or local transport connection to reach the museum. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If visiting by car, Léhon is easily accessible via local roads linking it to Dinan and surrounding villages. Parking is available near the museum and within Léhon's historic centre. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting 39-45 Museum, Léhon

  • Best time to visit 39-45 Museum, Léhon: Spring to early autumn offers comfortable weather for exploring Léhon and nearby Dinan.
  • Entrance fee: Adult: €7 Child: €5
  • Opening hours: Every day during school holidays, Sundays and public holidays included: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Official website: https://www.musee39-45.com/
  • How long to spend: Allow 1-1.5 hours to explore the exhibits and reconstructed bunker.
  • Accessibility: Some areas may be narrow or uneven due to original wartime designs; accessibility varies inside the museum.
  • Facilities: Léhon offers nearby cafés and restrooms, with additional amenities in Dinan.
  • Photography tip: The bunker and machinery exhibits offer dramatic close-up photography opportunities.
  • Guided tours: While mainly self-guided, staff are often available to answer questions and share background stories.
  • Nearby food options: Léhon and Dinan both offer traditional Breton eateries, cafés, and crêperies within a short distance.

Where to Stay close to 39-45 Museum, Léhon

Staying near Léhon provides a peaceful base close to the museum and within easy reach of Dinan’s attractions. Mercure Dinan Port offers a riverside setting ideal for exploring both Léhon and Dinan. For a historic stay in the heart of Dinan, Hôtel Arvor offers comfort within walking distance of major medieval sites. For boutique charm near the basilica and old town, La Maison Pavie provides a refined, characterful setting.

Is 39-45 Museum, Léhon Worth Visiting?

Yes-especially if you have an interest in WWII history. The museum's extensive private collection, restored wartime bunker, and richly researched artifacts offer an experience far more immersive than many larger institutions. It is an insightful, memorable visit for adults and families alike, and a compelling addition to any trip to Léhon or Dinan.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (710)

MUSÉE 39-45 - MÉMORIAL BRETAGNE - DINAN at 16 Rue du Pont de la Haye is a privately run, compact but densely packed WWII museum whose long-term collectors have assembled thousands of everyday wartime artefacts across two floors and several rooms — uniforms, helmets, vehicles and small items like medic and mess kits, bayonets, letters and photo albums. Visitors describe it as a labour of love that feels approachable rather than glossy, with many labels translated into English and a small gift shop selling collectibles; allow 45 minutes to two hours depending on your interest. Note the site has limited parking, no refreshments, and some visitors reported issues with card payments and pricing.

Eric Broockman
6 months ago
"This is a quirky place but is also a shrine of sorts built by people dedicated to preserving the nuts and bolts of the war. We’ve all seen warmovies. We see planes , battles, death. This little museum holds 1,000 s of the day to day elements of the war. Uniforms, bayonets, motorcycles, medic kits, mess kits, flame throwers, letters how, photo albums from officers and soldiers - it is all here. It isn’t a fancy place - but put together in an approachable way. The gift shop is unique in what is available for sale. Worth the 3 minute drive if you are in Dinan...."
Matthieu Rider
6 months ago
"An incredible labour of love over 40 years has seen the owners collect and curate an incredible supply of artefacts detailing the German occupationof Brittany during WW2 - from US trucks to Nazified French Gendarmie helmets and everything in between, the collection numbers in the thousands of items across two floors and five rooms. If you’re a WW2 officianado allow up to two hours. Passing interest in the period or region allow 45 minutes to an hour. Not much for young children to do, but tweens and teens with an interest in history will enjoy it. Many signs and item descriptions translated to English...."
Andy Be ey
3 months ago
"Wow, not a big site but certainly a lot in it, mostly German which makes a refreshing change from listening to how the Americans won World War 2single handed.. A worthwhile place to spend a couple of hours, no catering facilities though, but that's not we're here for......"

FAQs for Visiting 39-45 Museum, Léhon

Getting There

The museum is in Léhon, just outside Dinan, in a small village setting close to the River Rance. It’s a short hop from Dinan’s historic centre and easy to combine with other sights nearby.
Aim for the riverside area and follow local signs toward the museum address rather than relying on landmark-only navigation. The village is small, so once you’re close, it becomes straightforward to spot.
The simplest option is to head into Dinan town first and then continue toward Léhon by taxi or local bus, depending on the day and service frequency. If you’re walking, treat it as a longer, scenic route rather than a quick transfer.
Yes, driving is typically convenient here because Léhon is easier for parking than Dinan’s tight medieval streets. It’s a sensible choice if you’re also exploring the surrounding area or travelling with family.

Tickets & Entry

You can see the building and the village surroundings without paying, but the exhibits are inside and require admission. If you’re short on time, budget for the ticket so you can actually experience the displays.
Admission generally covers the full exhibition route, including reconstructed scenes and object displays that are designed to be explored at your own pace. Any special events or guided experiences, if offered, may have separate terms.
Most visitors can buy on arrival, but booking ahead can be helpful in peak summer periods or during school holidays. If you’re travelling with a tight schedule, booking reduces the risk of delays.
It is commonly run with seasonal opening patterns, with longer hours in the main visitor months. If you’re visiting outside summer, it’s worth checking the day’s hours before you set out.
Some exhibits can be confronting due to wartime themes, and parts may not be suitable for very young children without context. Large bags can feel awkward in tighter display areas, so travelling light makes the visit smoother.

Visiting Experience

Plan for around an hour as a minimum to do it justice without sprinting through. If you enjoy reading labels and studying objects, you’ll likely want longer.
Yes, especially if you want a different perspective from Dinan’s medieval highlights and river scenery. It adds depth to a one-day itinerary by grounding the area in 20th-century history.
Pair it with a walk around Léhon and the riverside for a calmer counterbalance to the heavy subject matter. You can then continue to Dinan’s old town for viewpoints, streets, and cafés.
It’s a strong bad-weather option because most of the experience is indoors. Rainy days can actually be ideal if you want a quieter, more focused visit.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Many Dinan walking tours focus on the medieval centre, so this museum is not always a standard inclusion. It’s often better treated as a deliberate add-on, especially if you’re interested in WWII history.
A self-guided visit works well because you can spend time where your interest is strongest. If you’re travelling with a history-minded group, a guided option can add structure and context if available on the day.
Start at the museum, then stroll through Léhon for riverside views and a short village loop before heading back toward Dinan. This keeps travel time low while giving you a change of pace after the exhibits.

Photography

It can be, particularly for atmospheric display scenes and object details, but the best approach is to treat it as a learning visit first. If photography is important, plan a few quick shots rather than trying to document everything.
Earlier in the day often feels calmer, which makes indoor photos easier and reduces people in the background. Late afternoon can be good for exterior shots around Léhon if the light is soft.
Restrictions can vary by exhibit and may depend on conservation concerns or visitor flow. If you’re unsure, assume flash is unwelcome and check signage before photographing close-up objects.
For a more “place-based” image, focus on Léhon’s riverside setting and village atmosphere rather than only the exhibits. A short walk around the immediate area usually yields the most memorable shots.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be challenging in smaller museums with tight layouts, thresholds, or steps, so it’s best to plan conservatively. If mobility is a concern, contact ahead to confirm the most accessible route through the exhibits.
Basic visitor facilities are typically available, but they may be limited compared with larger museums. It’s sensible to use facilities before you arrive if you’re on a tight schedule.
Yes-Léhon is a relaxed village setting and usually has spots to pause outdoors. If you prefer a proper break, plan a café stop in Dinan either before or after.
Older children who can engage with history often get a lot out of it, especially if you set expectations and pace the visit. For strollers and very young kids, space and content may make it more difficult, so a shorter visit can work better.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Dinan has the widest choice and is the easiest place to plan a reliable café stop around your visit. Léhon itself is quieter and better for a simple pause rather than a full food crawl.
Dinan’s food scene is a strong follow-up, especially if you want something comforting after a museum with heavier themes. A simple plan is museum first, then Dinan for lunch and wandering.

Safety & Timing

Léhon is generally calm, but it also gets quiet earlier than Dinan’s centre, so it can feel very still after dark. If you’re visiting late, keep your plans simple and return to Dinan for evening atmosphere.
Earlier visits tend to feel more focused and less rushed, especially if you want time to read and absorb the displays. Later visits can work well if you want to pair it with golden-hour walking around Léhon afterward.

Nearby Attractions to 39-45 Museum, Léhon

  • Dinan Ramparts - A medieval defensive circuit offering panoramic views.
  • Château de Dinan - A fortified castle with towers and a local history museum.
  • Saint-Sauveur Basilica - A blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles overlooking the Rance.
  • Port of Dinan - Scenic riverside walks, cafés, and boat trips.
  • Léhon Abbey - A serene riverside monastery with beautiful gardens and cloisters.

The 39-45 Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinan!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Every day during school holidays, Sundays and public holidays included: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Price:

Adult: €7 Child: €5

Address: 16 Rue du Pont de la Haye, 22100 Dinan, France
Dinan: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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