School History Trip to Normandy

Trip Overview

Embark on a poignant historical journey through Normandy, where pivotal events of World War II unfolded. Visit the hallowed beaches of Omaha and Utah, where Allied forces landed on D-Day, witnessing firsthand the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought. Explore the solemn American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, honouring the thousands who lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.

Delve into the strategic significance of sites like Pointe du Hoc and Pegasus Bridge, gaining insights into the intricate planning and execution of the Allied invasion. This immersive tour offers a profound understanding of the courage and resilience displayed during one of the most consequential chapters in modern history.

Suggested Itinerary

Kindly review the tour program we have proposed below. However, feel free to explore the alternative options below to create and design your own custom tours

Day 1
- Ferry & Arrival to Hotel
- Visit Omaha Beach
- Dinner in Hotel
Day 2
- Pegasus Beach & Museum / British Cemetery in Bayeux
- Museum of the Battle of Normandy in Bayeux
- Dinner in Hotel
Day 3
- Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église
- Arromanches 360 & Arromanche les Bains
- Dinner in Local Resaturant
Day 4
- German Battery at Longues-sur-Mer
- Return to UK

Alternative Excursions

Arromanches-les-Bains

Arromanches-les-Bains, a quaint coastal town in Normandy, France, holds profound historical significance as the site of one of the most remarkable engineering feats of World War II. During the Normandy Invasion in 1944, Arromanches became the location of Mulberry Harbour, a temporary port constructed by Allied forces to facilitate the rapid offloading of troops, vehicles, and supplies. Today, remnants of the Mulberry Harbour, including concrete caissons and other structures, serve as poignant reminders of the ingenuity and determination that characterized the Allied effort to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation.

Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery

The Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, situated near the village of Reviers in Normandy, France, stands as a poignant tribute to the Canadian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Normandy in World War II. Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the cemetery contains the graves of over 2,000 Canadian servicemen, their headstones arranged in pristine rows amidst serene and impeccably landscaped grounds. This sacred site serves as a solemn reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the Canadian troops who fought to secure the freedom of Europe.

Juno Beach Centre

The Juno Beach Centre Cemetery and Memorial, located in Courseulles-sur-Mer, France, pays tribute to the Canadian soldiers who fought and died during the D-Day landings of World War II. The cemetery, adjacent to the Juno Beach Centre museum, contains the graves of Canadian servicemen who perished during the invasion and subsequent battles. The memorial commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.

La Cambe German War Cemetery

La Cambe German War Cemetery, located in Normandy, France, serves as the final resting place for over 21,000 German soldiers who perished during the Battle of Normandy in World War II. Established in the years following the war, the cemetery features rows of dark granite crosses amidst meticulously tended lawns and trees, offering a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. The site stands as a sombre reminder of the human cost of war and encourages visitors to contemplate the shared humanity and tragedy experienced by soldiers on both sides of the conflict.

Longues-sur-Mer Battery

The Longues-sur-Mer Battery, located on the Normandy coast in France, is a well-preserved World War II artillery battery that played a significant role during the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. Constructed by the German forces, this coastal defence battery featured four casemates equipped with formidable 150 mm guns capable of firing upon Allied naval vessels approaching the shore. Today, visitors can explore the site, marvel at the impressive fortifications, and gain insight into the challenges faced by Allied forces during the Normandy Invasion.

Musée Airborne (Airborne Museum)

The Musée Airborne, located in Sainte-Mère-Église, France, is a captivating museum dedicated to preserving the memory of the airborne troops who participated in the Normandy Invasion during World War II. Housed in a building near the famous church where American paratrooper John Steele famously became caught on its steeple, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that chronicle the experiences of these brave soldiers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of airborne operations, gaining a profound appreciation for the remarkable courage and sacrifice of those who served in these elite units.

Museum of the Battle of Normandy

The Museum of the Battle of Normandy, located in Bayeux, France, offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the pivotal conflict that unfolded in the region during World War II. Through an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations, the museum vividly portrays the complexities and significance of the Normandy Campaign. Visitors gain a profound understanding of the strategies, sacrifices, and human experiences that shaped the outcome of one of the most decisive battles of the war.

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is a solemn tribute to the thousands of American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Normandy Campaign of World War II. Situated on a bluff overlooking Omaha Beach in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, the cemetery comprises row upon row of white marble crosses and Stars of David, meticulously maintained amidst meticulously landscaped grounds. This sacred site serves as a poignant reminder of the immense human cost of war and stands as a testament to the enduring bond between France and the United States.

Omaha Beach

Omaha Beach, a pivotal battleground during World War II's D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944, stands as a sombre testament to the courage and sacrifice of Allied forces. Its wide, sandy shores and formidable cliffs were fiercely defended by German troops, resulting in harrowing scenes of chaos and heroism as American soldiers stormed its shores under relentless enemy fire. Today, Omaha Beach serves as a hallowed memorial, honouring those who fought and died there in the name of freedom and democracy.

Pegasus Bridge

Pegasus Bridge, a small crossing over the Caen Canal in Normandy, France, earned its place in history during the early hours of D-Day, June 6, 1944. This vital objective was captured by British airborne troops in a daring glider assault, marking the beginning of the Allied invasion of Normandy. The successful seizure of Pegasus Bridge ensured the swift advance of Allied forces inland and played a crucial role in the liberation of France from Nazi occupation.

Pegasus Bridge Museum

The Château de Bénouville, situated near the famous Pegasus Bridge in Normandy, France, played a significant role in the events of D-Day during World War II. As the headquarters of German forces in the area, the château was a key target for Allied paratroopers of the 6th Airborne Division during the early hours of June 6, 1944. Its capture was crucial in securing the bridge and facilitating the swift advance of Allied troops inland, marking a pivotal moment in the Normandy Invasion.

Pointe du Hoc

Pointe du Hoc, a promontory on the Normandy coast, holds immense historical significance as a key objective during the D-Day invasion of World War II. This strategic point was heavily fortified by German forces, featuring massive cliffs and artillery emplacements overlooking the English Channel. The valiant assault by American Rangers on June 6, 1944, to seize and neutralize these formidable defences remains a symbol of courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

Ranville War Cemetery

Ranville War Cemetery, located near the village of Ranville in Normandy, France, holds a deep connection to the 6th Airborne Division, which played a pivotal role in the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II. Many of the graves in this cemetery belong to the courageous soldiers of the 6th Airborne Division who participated in the daring airborne assault on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Their sacrifice and valour are honoured in this serene and meticulously maintained cemetery, serving as a poignant testament to the bravery and determination of the airborne troops who contributed to the liberation of Europe.

Sainte-Marie-du-Mont

Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, a picturesque village in Normandy, France, holds a profound connection to American paratroopers who played a pivotal role in the D-Day invasion during World War II. In the early hours of June 6, 1944, paratroopers from the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions descended upon the fields surrounding the village, securing crucial objectives and paving the way for the Allied advance. Today, Sainte-Marie-du-Mont proudly commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of these airborne soldiers, with memorials, museums, and annual ceremonies honouring their heroic actions in liberating the village and contributing to the success of the Normandy Campaign.

Utah Beach

Utah Beach, one of the five landing zones during the Normandy Invasion on June 6, 1944, stands as a symbol of Allied perseverance and valour. Its sandy shores, flanked by marshes and dunes, witnessed the landing of American troops amidst relatively lighter resistance compared to other beaches. Despite initial challenges, the successful establishment of a beachhead at Utah facilitated the rapid advance of Allied forces inland, contributing significantly to the eventual liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control.

What's Included

Return journey to Normandy by Coach
Ferry Crossings
Half board accommodation
All Entrance Fees
Free staff place ratio 1:10
Packed Lunches on Days 2&3
Travel insurance
24/7 support
Interschool Travel Tour Leader

Curriculum Information

Rest assured, the tour comprehensively covers all the syllabus topics listed below.

World War II History
D-Day Landings Study
Historical Sites Visit
European History Insights
Cross-Cultural Learning
Research and Analysis
Cultural and Social Context
Military Strategy and Tactics
Memorial and Remembrance
Career Opportunities

Tour Leader

All Interschool Travel tours are accompanied by our experienced Interschool Tour Leaders, often drawn from our esteemed head office staff. This choice ensures seamless interactions with suppliers, skilful resolution of inquiries, and an enriched travel experience. We offer round-the-clock assistance to ensure your trip's success while upholding your leadership role.

What to Expect From Your Tour Leader

Led by experienced staff, our Interschool Tour Leaders ensure smooth interactions with suppliers, address queries, enhance your trip, and provide 24/7 support, while respecting your leadership.

24 Hour Back Up whilst on Tour

While accompanied by an Interschool Tour Leader, you will also have access to a 24-hour UK emergency telephone number for comprehensive assistance.

What Other Schools Thought of Their Trip

An excellent experience from start to finish. Having travelled with Interski for many years, I was excited to see that they are now offering Summer trips for schools too. We chose them to arrange our recent Y8 and 9 trip to Stratford. From booking to the organisation of the trip itself, Interschool Travel delivered the very best service. I have come to expect the very best when skiing and now know that I can get the same excellence when organising educational trips in the UK and overseas. I will certainly be booking with them again.

Stephen Mulryne
Scarborough College - July 2024

Impeccable service throughout. Completely faultless. Nothing was too much trouble. Personal bespoke package tailored to our needs.

Sarah Ellis
Scarborough College - July 2024

We visited Paris for 3 nights with Interschool Travel in October '24. From the initial conversations regarding my vision for this trip, to the trip itself, every aspect has been faultless with impeccable organisation and communication. The staff were able to enjoy the trip hassle free as everything was arranged/organised/planned etc by our trip co-ordinator...it's the first school residential I've come home from without feeling utterly wiped out! We will definitely be working with Interschool Travel again and feel assured that we'll have another amazing trip when we do so! Thanks Interschool Travel, you're 10/10!

Christina Ware
Bicester College - October 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, insurance provides comprehensive coverage and is included within this tour package. It covers your travel from the departure point and remains in effect until your return at the conclusion of the tour

Each Inter School Travel tour will be led by an experienced staff member. Their presence is aimed at facilitating interactions with suppliers, ensuring the seamless progression of the tour, and addressing any queries you or your group might have. Moreover, they are dedicated to enriching your trip experience without encroaching upon your leadership with your school students. Our role is to provide assistance, not to impose interference. You will also be supplied with a 24/7 contact number for complete assurance.

Certainly! Each tour has been meticulously designed with flexibility in mind. Please don't hesitate to bring up any changes, deletions, or additions you would like to discuss. Our tours are crafted with flexibility as our USP!