D-Day Landings

Published to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day and Operation Overlord

This practical travel guide takes you through Normandy's most significant World War II sites, from the five landing beaches (Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah) to Cherbourg and inland to Falaise. Written by two experienced travel writers with deep expertise in France and military history, it's designed for independent travellers who want to explore the beaches, memorials, museums and battlefields that shaped the course of the war. The guide covers every major site and uncovers smaller, lesser-known locations, venturing beyond the coast to include sites associated with the capture of Caen and the closing of the Falaise Gap.

Organised geographically for easy navigation, the book combines practical travel information—including maps and driving instructions—with rich historical context. You'll discover unexpected details, such as the German tobruk with a gun turret around which Utah Beach Museum was built, alongside quirky human stories: from Lord Lovat's Commando piper Bill Millin, who saw himself as a ballerina, to how the Utah Beach landings accidentally succeeded beyond their original plans.

Perfect for military-history enthusiasts, those with family connections to Normandy, or anyone visiting northern France, this portable guide helps you understand where each site fits into the Battle of Normandy's timeline while making the most of your visit.