GOLD BEACH
KEY FACTS
Gold Beach spans more than 5 miles (8 km) and stretches from Port-en-Bessin in the west to the Lieu-dit La Rivière in Ver-sur-Mer in the east.
Gold Beach was divided into four sectors from west to east : « H (how), I (Item), J (Jig), and K (King).
It was defended by the 716th German Infantry Division equipped with 500 machine guns, 50 mortars, and 90 guns of various calibers. Additionally, troops from the 352nd German Infantry Division were positioned west of the sector.
Several German strongpoints fortified the sector, along with artillery batteries at Mont-Fleury (WN 35), La Mare Fontaine (WN 32), Crépon, and Longues-sur-Mer (WN 48). These included :
– WN 33 and 34 at « La Rivière » in Ver-sur-Mer (to the east), armed with an 88 mm gun plus three 55 mm guns.
– WN 36 at « La Cabane des Douanes » in Asnelles, equipped with a 55 mm gun.
– WN 37 at « Le Hamel » in Asnelles, featuring a 75 mm gun plus a 55 mm gun.
– WN 38 also at « Le Hamel, » armed with a 55 mm gun.
– WN 39 on the cliffs of Arromanches, housing 88 mm and 75 mm guns.
MAIN OBJECTIVES OF THE ALLIES ON GOLD BEACH
– Secure a beachhead
– Capture Arromanches and establish contact with the Americans at Omaha beach
– Capture Bayeux and the port of Port-en-Bessin
– Link up with the Canadians at Juno Beach.
ON JUNE 6TH
The assault primarily targeted the « Item, Jig, and King » sectors located between Asnelles and La Rivière in Ver-sur-Mer where there were no cliffs. This strategic choice aimed to preserve Arromanches where the artificial harbor was to be constructed, resulting in no landings taking place directly in Arromanches.
– From midnight : air attacks attempted to target Le Hamel strongpoint (WN 37) in Asnelles but were unsuccessful. This strongpoint equipped with a 75mm gun facing east and fortified with a thick concrete wall on the sea side, remained intact.
– 5:30am : naval bombardments commenced with the objective of destroying German batteries, particularly the one at Longues-sur-Mer (where 3 out of the 4 guns were hit by allied cruisers at 6:20am). However, strongpoints in La Rivière (equipped with an 88mm gun) and Le Hamel (with a 75mm gun) sustained only minor damage. Four other strongpoints were also slightly impacted and needed to be taken by the soldiers.
– 7:25am : the first British soldiers from the 30th British Army Corps (50th British Infantry Division) landed, one hour after the Americans due to tidal conditions. Infantry, engineers and tanks faced heavy German resistance and came under fire from the strongpoints, especially in the eastern part of the sector. Numerous tanks were destroyed during the landing.
– Around 11am, the engineers had successfully created most of the breaches, enabling reinforcements to land safely.
– By evening, control over the heights of Port-en-Bessin had been established and a bridgehead extending 10 km wide and deep had been secured. However, the capture of Bayeux, as initially planned, had not been achieved. Nevertheless, it would be liberated easily the following day as the Germans had withdrawn.
On June 6th, a total of 24,970 British soldiers landed with 413 casualties recorded.
For further details on the Gold Beach landing and interesting period photographs, visit the « D-DAY Overlord » website HERE.
SITES
Below are the key and essential sites to visit in the British sector :
1- Longues-sur-Mer and its German Battery.
2- Port-en-Bessin-Huppain.
3- Arromanches and the artificial harbour.
4- The British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer.
5- The British cemeteries of Bayeux and Ryes-Bazenville.
MY GOOD TIP
Explore key locations in the Gold Beach sector using the « D-Day App » !
Discover Arromanches, Longues Battery, Gold Beach and Bayeux War Cemetery with an audio guide. It’s user-friendly—simply download the content for a free guided tour.
Available in both French and English.
Link HERE.
1- LONGUES-SUR-MER AND ITS GERMAN GUN BATTERY- WN 48
Situated on the D-Day Landing beaches, nestled between Arromanches and Port en Bessin, the Longues-sur-Mer German battery stands as a significant component of the Atlantic Wall, strategically positioned between Omaha and Gold Beaches.
This coastal defense battery features a command post and four casemates, each housing an original 150mm gun. Positioned atop a cliff overlooking the English Channel, it held a pivotal role during the Allied landing.
– You will see the original 150mm guns housed in each of the four casemates.
– Enjoy a pleasant coastal stroll to discover each bunker.
Practical information :
– Open year-round.
– Free admission for self-guided tours.
– Guided tours available (in French and English) by Tourist Office guides from April to early November.
For more information, contact : 02 31 21 46 87 or info@bayeux-tourism.com
For further details on this battery, visit : www.dday-overlord.com/en/d-day/atlantic-wall/batteries/longues-sur-mer
** MY TOP TIP ** : discover the wild beach of Longues-sur-Mer.
If you follow the road straight ahead towards the cliffs, take the path on the left that leads down to the stunning Longues-sur-Mer beach nestled in a cove. It’s a 10-15 minute walk to reach the charming pebble beach at the base of the cliffs.
2- PORT-EN-BESSIN-HUPPAIN
Today, Port-en-Bessin-Huppain stands as Normandy’s top small-scale fishing port, renowned for its scallops. It’s also a charming coastal town, just a 10-minute drive from Bayeux.
Enjoy the delightful food market along the port every Sunday morning and don’t miss the daily fish market (closed on Sunday afternoons and Mondays except in July & August).
IN 1944
Following D-Day, the imperative to secure Cherbourg and other coastal ports became crucial. To facilitate the Allied supply lines, the first submarine pipeline in the English Channel, connecting southern England to Normandy, was laid. The terminal for this operation was established in Port-en-Bessin. This British initiative was dubbed PLUTO (« Pipe Line Under The Ocean »). A monument commemorating PLUTO stands in Port-en-Bessin.
– For further historical insights, visit the DDAY Overlord website HERE.
– Check out these informative YouTube videos on Port-en-Bessin and Operation PLUTO HERE & THERE.
** A GREAT WAY TO EXPLORE PORT-EN-BESSIN ** : The Heritage Walking Trail.
Embark on a one-hour self-guided tour through the village, featuring informative panels in both French and English highlighting its rich heritage. Pick up a map at the Tourist Office, situated at the end of the port dock, 40 Quai Baron Gérard, 14520 Port-en-Bessin.
3- ARROMANCHES AND ITS MULBERRY ARTIFICIAL HARBOUR
The remnants of the artificial harbor are still visible, making it a unique destination to explore. However, these Phoenix caissons are gradually deteriorating each year. It’s speculated that in 30 years, the site may have entirely vanished…
The 1st Battalion Hampshire Regiment of the British 50th Division secured Arromanches on June 6, advancing westward from their landing point in Asnelles. By 10:30 PM, the coastal village was fully liberated.
Arromanches became one of the assembly points for the Mulberry artificial harbors, with construction commencing on June 7. Temporary jetties consisting of prefabricated concrete supports, steel spans and floating piers were towed across the channel in sections and positioned perpendicular to the beach. The artificial harbor in Arromanches, known as Mulberry B (for British), played a crucial role in the Allied supply chain.
Unfortunately, the similar harbor at Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer on Omaha Beach (Mulberry A for American) was destroyed by a severe storm on June 19. As a result, Arromanches became one of the primary areas for unloading Allied troops and supplies until the capture of the deep-water port of Cherbourg allowed for more efficient operations.
Arromanches is not just historically significant ; it’s also a picturesque coastal town that’s well worth exploring. Take some time to wander through its charming streets and along the beach. A highlight of your visit could be a stroll from the city center up to the circular cinema perched on the heights. From there, you’ll be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the beach and the remnants of the artificial harbor.
My recommendation to park in Arromanches
Finding parking in Arromanches, especially during the busy summer months, can be quite challenging. My recommendation is to avoid the seaside area and instead look for parking in the narrow streets within the village itself. This strategy can help you avoid the crowds and make your visit more enjoyable.
4- THE BRITISH NORMANDY MEMORIAL IN VER-SUR-MER
13 Avenue Paul Poret, 14114 Ver-sur-Mer.
Website HERE.
– It’s a deeply moving and visually stunning site, exuding a sense of reverence that makes it a must-visit destination.
– To enhance your visit, consider downloading the free « Normandy British Memorial » app, available on Google Play and the App Store. It provides audio guides via an interactive map, detailed information on all 22,442 names inscribed and captivating stories behind each name. This resource is invaluable for self-guided tours.
Officially inaugurated on June 6, 2021, the Memorial stands as a tribute to the British forces who sacrificed their lives on D-Day and during the Normandy campaign. Its serene surroundings house nearly 22,500 names with the 1,746 individuals who perished on June 6, 1944, commemorated on the D-Day wall within the central courtyard
The location of the Memorial was chosen by British veterans themselves and from an aerial perspective, its layout mirrors the iconic design of the Union Jack.
– Open 7/7 all year round.
– Free admission.
– There’s a modest parking fee, with all proceeds dedicated to maintaining the Memorial.
– It’s an approximately 8-minute walk from the parking area to the Memorial.
MONT-FLEURY GERMAN GUN BATTERY IN VER-SUR-MER
The Mont-Fleury German gun battery in Ver-sur-mer also known as the Roquette battery was still under construction when the Allies landed. Two out of the four casemates were concrete bunkers on D-Day, but only one of them had the Russian 122mm gun installed.
On June 6, the battery was seized by Company Sergeant Major Stanley Hollis of the 6th Battalion Green Howards, who acted alone with a gun and several grenades. Two German soldiers were killed and others wounded. The remaining soldiers surrendered.
For his actions on D-Day, he received the Victoria Cross, the highest British military award.
There is a remnant bunker near the British Memorial : from the Memorial, head left onto Avenue Paul Poret, then take the second left onto Hector Berlioz Street. There isn’t much to see, but if you’re interested, it’s worth a quick look.
The British Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer
Click on each photo to enlarge
5- BRITISH WAR CEMETERIES ON THE GOLD BEACH SECTOR
- British War Cemetery of Bayeux.
1945 Boulevard Fabian Ware, 14400 Bayeux.
The largest British war cemetery in France.
– Free admission / open at all times.
– 4,648 soldiers killed during World War II, including nearly 4,000 British are buried here.
– Graves of Australian, New Zealand, South African, Polish, Russian, French, Czech, Italian and German soldiers.
– Across from the cemetery stands the Memorial honoring the 2,092 Commonwealth soldiers who perished during the Battle of Normandy and could not be identified. - Ryes-Bazenville Commonwealth Cemetery
Located 8 km (5 miles) east of Bayeux.
Situated slightly off the main path, this cemetery is surrounded by fields, exuding a tranquil atmosphere.
The initial burials occurred here just two days after the landing.
– Admission is free and the cemetery is open at all times.
– It holds 652 Commonwealth burials from the Second World War.
– Additionally, there are one Polish grave and 335 German graves.
Ryes War Cemetery
Click on each photo to enlarge.
MY SELECTION OF MUSEUMS
LIBERATORS MUSEUM - NORMANDY 1944, in Arromanches
Duration of visit : approximately 1 hour.
Tickets to be bought on site only (small entrance fee).
This small museum is highly recommended, featuring a remarkable collection of personal items donated by veterans (and their families) of the Battle of Normandy.
The owner, who is Dutch and fluent in French, English, Dutch and German is very welcoming. He offers a 30-minute guided tour, providing insights into the collection and sharing stories behind the exhibited items and the veterans. Additionally, there is a boutique offering authentic WW2 items.
In my opinion, this museum in Arromanches is both fascinating and educational and definitely worth a visit !
LIBERATORS MUSEUM-NORMANDY 1944
9 rue Colonel René Michel, 14117 Arromanches.
Follow them on Facebook HERE.
Ph : 02 14 08 60 98
Opening days :
– 7/7 from mid-April to mid-September.
– 9am-6pm
THE D-DAY MUSEUM in Arromanches
Duration of visit : approximately 1,5 hours.
– Tickets to be purchased on site only.
The new museum which opened in 2023 occupies the original building inaugurated on June 5, 1954, making it the first museum dedicated to commemorating the Landings.
After your visit, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the history behind the British and American artificial harbours. You’ll learn about the incredible technological feat involved in constructing these ports, with very detailed explanatory models provided.
The highlight of the visit is the « monumental projection » at the end, which is truly amazing. You’ll witness the artificial harbour as it was in 1944 and observe how it functioned on a transparent holographic canvas.
D-DAY MUSEUM
Place du 6 juin, 14117 Arromanches.
Website HERE.
Visit with an audioguide available in 10 languages.
Opening days :
– Open 7/7 (check opening times on the website as they vary according to the seasons)
– Closed in January, December 24, 25 and 31.
ARROMANCHES 360 CIRCULAR CINEMA
Film duration : 20 minutes.
– Tickets can be purchased online.
– Discounted combined tickets with the Caen and/or Falaise Memorial Museums are available on the website.
– Paid parking is available on-site.
Situated on the heights of Arromanches, offering a stunning panoramic view of the remnants of the artificial harbour, it’s worth stopping by for the view alone, even if you don’t plan to watch the film.
The film is projected on 9 screens and features British, Canadian, German, American and French archives depicting the 100 days of the Battle of Normandy. It’s both emotional and educational, providing a vivid portrayal of the harsh realities of the battle.
ARROMANCHES 360
Chemin du Calvaire, 14117 Arromanches
Website HERE.
Opening days :
– Open 7/7 except on Monday in November & December (check exact opening hours on the website).
– Closed on December 25 and the first 3 weeks of January.
MEMORIAL MUSEUM OF THE BATTLE OF NORMANDY in Bayeux
Duration of visit : 1-2 hours.
– Tickets must be purchased onsite.
– Reduced prices available with the purchase of a Bayeux pass museum (including 2 or 3 museums in Bayeux).
This museum is unique in the region as it covers all military operations in Normandy from June 7 (the liberation of Bayeux) to August 29, 1944. It offers a comprehensive chronology of the Battle of Normandy.
– There’s a wealth of material and equipment on display, including vehicles, guns, uniforms and soldier mannequins, making it appealing to children, teenagers and adults alike.
– A 25-minute film, available in both French and English versions uses archival documents to explain the major operations of the battle, aided by maps illustrating troop movements.
– The museum also features a giant diorama depicting the Falaise-Chambois pocket, a violent and destructive battle in the Orne department that marked the end of the Battle of Normandy. Eisenhower famously described it as « one of the greatest killings of the war. »
If you’re particularly interested in the Falaise-Chambois pocket, I recommend visiting the Montormel Memorial in Montormel (a 1-hour 15-minute drive from Bayeux, in the Orne department).
MEMORIAL MUSEUM OF THE BATTLE OF NORMANDY
Boulevard Fabian Ware, 14400 Bayeux.
Website HERE.
Opening days :
– Open 7/7 (please check opening hours online)
– Closed on December 24, 25 & 31 and in January.
ORIGINAL EXPERIENCES
JEEP TOUR ON GOLD BEACH
Embark on a unique adventure exploring the Gold Beach sector with Gold Beach Company, venturing off the typical tourist path.
Experience the British landmarks from the comfort of an authentic WW2 Willys Jeep, accompanied by a private driver/guide.
Each jeep can accommodate a maximum of three passengers and the company has multiple jeeps available for larger groups.
Your journey begins with a pickup from Bayeux or the surrounding areas, taking you to :
– Longues-sur-Mer, home to its renowned German battery.
– Arromanches, a significant historical site.
– Ver-sur-Mer and the Mont-Fleury German battery.
– The British war cemetery in Ryes-Bazenville.
GOLD BEACH COMPANY
Website HERE.
Ph : 0967 820 514
Email : booking@goldbeachcompany.com
E-BIKING TOUR WITH HUGO
D-DAY Arromanches
Explore the Gold Beach sector on an electric bike tour led by a friendly and knowledgeable local guide.
Hugo, from Petite Reine Normandie, is a native of Bayeux and an experienced professional guide who has been offering popular electric bike tours since 2016.
On the Gold Beach tour, he will lead you through key sites such as Longues-sur-Mer with its German battery and Arromanches with its iconic artificial harbor. Cycling along scenic routes and tranquil paths, you’ll delve into the history of D-Day while enjoying the beauty of the region.
It’s a fantastic way to experience Normandy differently, especially in a region ideal for cycling !
The price includes :
– Guided services by Hugo from Bayeux.
– Premium electric bike rentals and helmets.
– Duration : 3 hours.
Other tours include :
– D-Day Omaha
– D-Day Overlord
– E-bike food tour
– Mont-Saint-Michel
– Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Eglise.
PETITE REINE NORMANDIE
You can contact Hugo by phone or by email or send a request via the contact form on the website.
Website HERE.
Ph : 06 80 87 87 37
Email : hugo@petitereinenormandie.fr
PLAYING GOLF IN PORT-EN-BESSIN
Omaha Beach Golf Club
Experience a unique and stunning golf course situated in Port-en-Bessin offering panoramic views of the English Channel and the distant Arromanches artificial harbor. Despite its location in Port-en-Bessin which marks the start of the Gold Beach sector, this golf course is known as the « Omaha Beach Golf Club ».
Featuring two courses, it stands as the sole 36-hole golf course in the West, offering possibly the most technically challenging experience.
Each hole is named after a hero of the Landing or a significant Normandy battle or site associated with D-Day or the Normandy Campaign, accompanied by explanatory panels.
General Eisenhower’s son inaugurated hole #1 while Piper Bill Millin visited hole #18 which bears his name. Bill is renowned for crossing Pegasus Bridge on the Sword Beach sector to the sound of his bagpipes.
History of the golf
The golf course was established by Guy Dupont in 1986. Initially, Dupont owned farmland and a dairy farm in the area. During the 1960s, his children played golf in the Rouen area, which was approximately a two-hour drive away. When Dupont ceased farming, the family opted to convert the farm into a golf course. Aware of the Americans’ plans for a golf project in the region, Dupont saw an opportunity and thought, « Why not us ? ».
OMAHA BEACH GOLF CLUB
La Ferme Saint-Sauveur, 14520 Port-en-Bessin-Huppain
Website HERE.
Ph : 02 31 22 12 12
Email : info@omahabeacholclub.com
Opening days :
– April 1-November 1 : 8am-7pm
– November 2- March 31 : 9am-5pm
EAT
ON THE COAST
LA CALE in Asnelles
I think it’s one of the best restaurants on the Gold Beach coast.
28 rue de Southampton, 14960 Asnelles.
Ph : 02 31 21 48 78
Website HERE.
Budget : moderate.
A delightful little restaurant with a charming ambiance, serving exquisite cuisine crafted exclusively from fresh ingredients.
Dishes beautifully presented.
Warm and friendly welcome.
Weekly set menu as well as à la carte options.
Opening days
– From Wednesday to Sunday for lunch & dinner.
– 12pm-2pm & 7pm-9pm.
– Closed on Monday & Tuesday.
LA CALVADOSIENNE in Asnelles
Oyster tasting in an oyster farm and store : directly from the producer !
21 rue de grand large, Zone Activités Les Roquettes, Meuvaines, 14960 Asnelles.
Website HERE.
Here, you can savor local oysters sourced directly from the producer : enjoy tasting oysters with a glass of white wine in a designated area of the boutique.
A notable aspect : this company prioritizes employing a significant number of workers with disabilities, aiming to integrate them into society and everyday life.
Opening days
– During the high season : Monday to Saturday : 9am-6pm.
– Closed on Sunday.
LE PETIT JARDIN at Château Chenevière in Port-en-Bessin
A bistronomic restaurant in the heart of the park of an elegant 18th century manor house (which is also a hotel)
Château La Chenevière, Commes, 14520 Port-en-Bessin
Ph : 02 31 51 25 25
Email : contact@restaurantlepetitjardin.com
Website HERE.
Budget : moderate.
A cuisine that celebrates seasonal vegetables, fresh and flavorful. Most fruits and vegetables are sourced from the property’s permaculture vegetable garden and local producers whenever possible, always from France.
Tables are available both outdoors and in a stunning glass conservatory, adorned with British-style decor that once served as the chateau’s conservatory. It’s a charming and romantic setting !
For a great value, consider the set lunch menu offered from Thursday to Monday, excluding Sunday and bank holidays : 2024 prices : 19 euros for 2 courses and 25 euros for 3 courses.
They host a barbecue every Sunday for lunch.
Château Chenevière also features a 5-star hotel with a gastronomic restaurant called Le Botaniste.
Reservations are recommended.
Opening days
– From Thursday to Monday.
– Château Chenevière is usually closed during the low season . Please, check online.
IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
A few minutes drive from the tourist bustle of the coast in a relaxing green setting…
L'AUBERGE DES MONTS in Ryes
A good traditional Norman restaurant nestled in the lush countryside, just a 5-minute drive from Arromanches.
7 rue d’Arromanches, 14400 Ryes.
Ph : 02 31 21 50 77
Email : aubergedesmonts@aol.com
Follow them on Facebook HERE.
Budget : prices are very reasonable, offering excellent value for money.
Reservation by phone or by email.
Generous and flavorful regional dishes prepared with care.
The homemade cuisine is simple yet delicious, making it the ideal spot to savor Norman gastronomy.
You’ll receive a warm welcome from the owners and enjoy efficient service.
Opening days
– Please check online.
– Closed from mid-December to the end of January.
LA FERME DE LA RANCONNIERE in Crépon
A restaurant (and 4-star hotel) set in an authentic farmhouse that has been beautifully renovated in the countryside.
9 Route de Creully, 14480 Crépon (10 minutes drive inland from Arromanches)
Ph : 02 31 22 21 73
Email : info@ranconniere.fr
Website HERE.
Budget : moderate to high.
This elegant and delightful restaurant serves up traditional cuisine in a stunning Norman farmhouse dating back to the 18th century.
With its exposed beams and stone walls, the ambiance combines rustic charm with modern touches. The setting is truly exquisite.
There are several terraces where guests can dine al fresco, weather permitting.
Additionally, Sunday brunch is available by reservation, with each month featuring a different spotlight country.
Opening days
– Monday to Friday : dinner only : 7pm-8:30pm.
– Saturday & Sunday : 12pm-1:30pm & 7pm-8:30pm.
SLEEP
MANOIR DE MATHAN in Crépon
A charming 3-star hotel in an authentic Norman manor farm from the 17th century
Route de Bayeux, 14480 Crépon (10 minutes by car from Arromanches)
Ph : 02 31 21 38 66
Email : manoir.mathan@gmail.com
Website HERE.
Budget : correct-moderate.
A typical manor farm of the Bessin area surrounded by a large beautiful park for a relaxing stay.
– Several categories of rooms in a typical Norman setting with modern comfort.
– Rooms for 2, 3, 4 or 5 guests and apartments with a kitchen, for 2 and 8 people.
– You can have breakfast on the sunny terrace weather permitting.
Hotel is open from March to November.
LA FERME DE LA RANCONNIERE in Crépon
A charming 4-star hotel in an authentic Norman farmhouse.
9 Route de Creully, 14480 Crépon (10 minutes by car from Arromanches)
Ph : 02 31 22 21 73
Email : info@ranconniere.fr
Website HERE.
Budget : correct to moderate.
The manor offers 41 rooms, each boasting modern comfort and refined decor. Rooms are divided into 5 categories and are equipped with air conditioning.
– Some rooms can accommodate up to 3 and 5 guests.
– Each room has its own unique story to tell : guests can choose to stay in the Lord’s room, the family’s quarters or opt for rooms located in the defensive tower, the only remaining element dating back to the 14th century. Other rooms are situated in the old bakery of the estate, featuring splendid vaulted ceilings or in the historic stables of the farm.
– With exposed beams and stone walls, each room exudes charm and character.
– On-site restaurant and bar.
RENT A COTTAGE AT THE HOSTELLERIE OF THE LONGUES-SUR-MER ABBEY
A lovely cottage for rent on the grounds of a 12th century Benedictine abbey : an exceptional setting !
17 rue de l’abbaye, 14400 Longues sur Mer (7,5 km /4,5 miles from Bayeux).
Information HERE.
Budget : correct for 10 guests.
– A peaceful cottage with rustic charm that can accommodate up to 10 people.
– This independent house, formerly the « lay brothers*’ house, » is situated adjacent to the main building of the abbey and features a private garden.
* “Lay Brothers” are members of Catholic religious orders primarily responsible for the manual labour and secular affairs of a monastery.
– Well-equipped, spacious and ideally located to explore the area.
Rental condition : minimum stay of 2 nights outside French school holidays and one week during school holidays.
An added benefit : by renting this cottage, you’ll contribute to the association of the abbey in restoring and preserving this historic site !
