Bayeux War Cemetery

Cemetery in Bayeux

Bayeux War Cemetery
Bayeux War Cemetery
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wernervc

The Bayeux War Cemetery is one of the must-see places in Bayeux for anyone seeking to understand the human cost of the Normandy Campaign. Established after the D-Day landings, this peaceful site holds the graves of thousands of soldiers who gave their lives during the liberation of France in 1944. Its serene symmetry and manicured lawns stand in poignant contrast to the chaos of war, offering a place for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance.

Located just beyond the center of Bayeux, the cemetery feels deeply personal despite its scale. Each headstone tells a story - of courage, sacrifice, and loss. Designed by British architect Philip Hepworth, the layout features the Cross of Sacrifice and Stone of Remembrance, both hallmarks of Commonwealth war cemeteries. This spot is a highlight of any walking tour of Bayeux, often visited alongside the nearby Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy and the Bayeux Memorial across the road.

History and Significance of Bayeux War Cemetery

The Bayeux War Cemetery was established in 1944, following the Allied landings on D-Day. It became the final resting place for soldiers who died in the fierce battles that followed, particularly during the push inland from the Normandy beaches. Many of the men buried here were initially treated in nearby field hospitals but succumbed to their wounds in the weeks after the invasion.

Completed in 1952, the cemetery holds 4,144 Commonwealth graves, including 338 for unknown servicemen, alongside over 500 graves of other nationalities, mostly German soldiers. The site was designed to embody peace and dignity, with each headstone carefully aligned in rows across perfectly kept lawns. Facing the cemetery stands the Bayeux Memorial, which honors over 1,800 Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave. The inscription, “We, once conquered by William, have now set free the Conqueror's native land,” poignantly links the events of 1944 with the shared history of England and Normandy dating back to the 11th century.

In June 2024, during the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the cemetery hosted a moving ceremony led by Princess Anne, where each of the 4,144 graves was illuminated in remembrance. Events like these reaffirm Bayeux’s central role in preserving the memory of the liberation and the sacrifices that made it possible.

Things to See and Do in Bayeux War Cemetery

Walking through the cemetery is a humbling experience. The Cross of Sacrifice rises at its center, surrounded by rows of white headstones, each bearing a name, regiment, and sometimes a personal inscription. Many visitors take time to pause at the Stone of Remembrance, inscribed with the words “Their Name Liveth For Evermore.”

Opposite the cemetery, the Bayeux Memorial features the names of those missing in action, their memory preserved in stone. The surrounding gardens offer quiet corners for contemplation. The cemetery's proximity to the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy provides valuable historical context, making it one of the top sights in Bayeux for visitors exploring the story of D-Day and its aftermath.

How to Get There

The Bayeux War Cemetery is located on Boulevard Fabian Ware, just west of the town center. It's around a 15-minute walk from Bayeux railway station. 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.
For those driving, free parking is available at the Museum of the Battle of Normandy, located next to the cemetery, or nearby at Place de Québec. 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 Visitng Bayeux War Cemetery

  • Best time to visit Bayeux War Cemetery: Early morning or late afternoon for quiet reflection and soft light
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free entry
  • Opening hours: Open daily during daylight hours
  • Official website: www.cwgc.org
  • How long to spend: Around 30-45 minutes
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible paths and flat terrain throughout
  • Facilities: Public restrooms nearby at the Museum of the Battle of Normandy
  • Photography tip: Capture the symmetry of the headstones from the entrance path under soft natural light
  • Guided tours: Informal visits are encouraged; group tours available via local guides or the CWGC website
  • Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants available in central Bayeux, a 10-minute walk away

Is Bayeux War Cemetery worth visiting?

Yes, the Bayeux War Cemetery is one of the top attractions in Bayeux for those interested in World War II history or simply wishing to pay their respects. It offers a moving reminder of the human stories behind the history books. The peaceful setting, combined with its historical depth and emotional impact, makes it a profoundly meaningful place to visit.

FAQs for visitng

Is the cemetery free to enter?
Yes, entry is free and open to the public.

Can I visit year-round?
Yes, the cemetery is open daily during daylight hours.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but parents should encourage respectful behavior.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, through local D-Day historians and the CWGC.

Can I leave flowers or tributes?
Yes, visitors are welcome to leave flowers at gravesites.

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The Bayeux War Cemetery appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bayeux!

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Visiting Bayeux War Cemetery

Address: Bayeux War Cemetery, Boulevard Fabian Ware, Bayeux, France
Bayeux: 1 km

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