Museum and the Merville Battery site — Attraction in Lisieux

I've had the pleasure of visiting the Museum at Merville Battery 3 times in the last 4 years.

It's changed quite a bit since my first visit in October 2018 when it was 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟s but in October 2021 it is a 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟.

So in October 2018 I wrote. An excellent museum, tranquil and peaceful. Well maintained, very interesting, happy to recommend it. Maybe in a few years with a new visitor centre maybe a cafe might be added.

In October 2021 I wrote. Myself & 4 friends returned in October 2021 in bright sunshine & found a totally transformed museum. There is a new visitor centre with shop but sadly still no cafe. The museum is a little bit out of the village so a cafe would be a great idea, to have been able to sit and to enjoy a pastry accompanied by a tea or coffee overlooking the battery in the bright sunshine would have been so relaxing.

I have added a further 15 or so photo's of our visit this year.

There's alot to see, some great visual displays and now the C47 now has it's own stand and hangar, presumably for those cold, wet winter months. It's certainly improved and I'd say, having seem quite a few museums in Normandy now, that it's well worth a visit. It's also nice to see that one of the British rated museums is seeing investment so that it can be preserved for future generations, and so that the memories of those brave 150 or so men can be remembered for what they did. Thank you.

Returned again in September 2022, still reasonably priced & although we visited in heavy rain I still enjoyed my visit. I've added a few more photos.

I still think the museum would benefit from a café, especially for hot drinks on a cold day like today.

Like many of the museums across Normandy it's not standing still, it's had several small improvements, which help to improve it and keep it on a par with so many other museums. Like many of the other museums across Normandie it really does bring history to life, providing a real insight into the history of the site, the history of the d-day landings, the region and most importantly the incredible bravery & heroics of the men & women of so many nations and services who were involved in Operation Overlord and in the...

The Merville Battery site and its associated museum are significant historical landmarks located near Ouistreham, Normandy. This site offers a poignant glimpse into the events of World War II, particularly the D-Day landings that took place on June 6, 1944.

The Merville Battery was a German artillery position that played a crucial role in defending the coastline against the Allied invasion. The site features well-preserved bunkers and fortifications, which visitors can explore to gain a deeper understanding of the military strategies and challenges faced during the war. The imposing concrete structures provide a stark reminder of the conflict, and walking through them evokes a sense of the history that unfolded in this area.

The accompanying museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the Merville Battery's history and its significance during the war. It houses a range of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that detail the events leading up to D-Day, the operation itself, and the aftermath. The museum effectively combines narrative storytelling with visual displays, allowing guests to grasp the complexities of the military operations and the sacrifices made by soldiers.

One of the highlights of the site is the reenactments and guided tours that are often offered, providing an immersive experience that brings history to life. Knowledgeable guides share stories and insights, enhancing visitors' understanding of the strategic importance of the Merville Battery and the impact of the war on the local community.

Overall, the Merville Battery site and museum are essential visits for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the significant events of World War II. It serves as a powerful reminder of the past, encouraging reflection on the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom. The combination of well-preserved historical structures and informative exhibits makes this site a compelling destination...

Great place, but not for young children who don’t read French/English fluently.

We went during the summer holiday (august) with two children (5,6) and three adults. It was very busy and very hard to read all the signs because it’s a one sens visit. Everyone waits to read the same sign. We had about 10-12 people behind us and they didn’t leave us much time to read it and explain to our kids, they kept coming very close to us so they too could read over our shoulders ~ Not in a rude way, but we felt the need to rush because the queue behind us was growing so we missed quiet a lot of it and it was very frustrating at times. We couldn’t access the audio due to poor internet connection either so we missed on that too. They had a technical glitch as the main « attraction » where they recreate the attack and bombarding (really great btw) so we waited 35mn despite someone assuring it’d be 5mn only … every 5mn! It’s very difficult for children who don’t read, they get bored very quickly, parents needs to explain everything in a way they understand. So I would give a 5* if you’re adults only and are patient. If you like something more interactive, where you don’t queue for everything or if you have children it might not be the best place for your family. Worth a visit regardless, as long as you know what’s awaiting, you still get to learn a lot and the aircraft is very impressive to look at. To do on a dry day as it’s mostly outside.

Best local museums for a wet days with kids: Vikings (Ornivak) and Pere Magloire...