Bayeux

Campsite near Bayeux

Just 15 minutes from Camping Reine Mathilde ***, discover Bayeux, the first French town to be liberated in 1944 and miraculously preserved from the bombardments. This medieval Norman town, rich in history and heritage, will win you over with its authenticity and charm. Stroll along its cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, admire its majestic Gothic cathedral and marvel at the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a medieval masterpiece listed in UNESCO's "Memory of the World" register. A must-see cultural getaway during your stay in Normandy.

Bayeux

Campsite near Bayeux, discover the highlights of the capital of Bessin

Make the most of your stay in Normandy at the 3-star Camping Reine Mathilde, our camping in Calvadosfor visit Bayeuxthe capital of Bessin. This medieval Norman city is famous the world over for its UNESCO World Heritage tapestryBut that's not all. Find out more!

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All about Bayeux

The Bayeux Tapestry, a medieval treasure

Listed in UNESCO's "Memory of the World" register, the Bayeux Tapestry is an almost 70-metre-long embroidery of wool on linen dating from the 11th century.

In 58 scenes, it recounts the conquest of England by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, culminating in the Battle of Hastings in 1066. This exceptional historical testimony is presented in a modern museum featuring an immersive scenography with a multilingual audio guide.

It's a fascinating visit that will appeal to the whole family, thanks to child-friendly explanations and teaching aids. The museum also has a section devoted to the history of tapestry and medieval embroidery techniques.

Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic jewel

At the heart of Bayeux stands the majestic Notre-Dame cathedral, consecrated in 1077 in the presence of William the Conqueror.

This masterpiece of Norman Gothic architecture is impressive for its size and the beauty of its vaults. Its 11th-century Romanesque crypt is one of the largest in France. Take time to admire the stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 13th century, and the many sculpted details that adorn the building. D

ith guided tours, you can discover the cathedral's hidden treasures, such as the Chapter House and the Treasury, which houses precious liturgical objects. In summer, don't miss the sound and light show "Les Lumières de la Liberté", which illuminates the cathedral's façade.

Cycle touring stage in Bayeux

Bayeux is a charming stop-off point on the Vélomaritime itinerary. Arrive by bike from the Camping Reine Mathilde *** for an urban ride through the preserved historic centre.

Old Bayeux is best explored on foot or by bike, strolling through the cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses and 16th and 18th century town houses.

Don't miss the tanners' quarter with its wash-house and old stalls, the gardens of the former bishop's palace, the Bayeux belfry and the botanical garden with its remarkable tree, a multi-century-old weeping beech.

Cyclists can take advantage of the many secure cycle parks dotted around the city and the appropriate services (repairs, hire) available in the city centre.

Cultural weekend for two in Bayeux

For a cultural weekend for two, Bayeux offers a fascinating immersion in the history of the D-Day landings. The first French town to be liberated on 7 June 1944, it is home to the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum, which retraces the military operations of summer 1944 through a rich collection of vehicles, uniforms and period documents.

Nearby, the British Military Cemetery, the largest Second World War British cemetery in France, is a moving place of remembrance. For art lovers, the MAHB (Musée d'Art et d'Histoire Baron Gérard) presents collections ranging from archaeology to contemporary art in an exceptional setting, the renovated former episcopal palace.

In the evening, the many gourmet restaurants in the town centre offer refined cuisine featuring Normandy produce.

Just a few minutes from the D-Day landing beaches, the Bayeux British War Cemetery houses the war graves of 4,000 Commonwealth soldiers. On the pediment of the Memorial to the memory of those who fought, a phrase in Latin reminds us that in 1944, the British came to liberate the land of William the Conqueror.

Housed in the former palace of the bishops of Bayeux (11th to 18th centuries), the MAHB-Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History contains some : 600 works of art, including 250 paintings and prints (François Boucher, Gustave Caillebotte, Eugène Boudin, Kees Van Dongen...), as well as collections of Bayeux porcelain and lace and almost a thousand archaeological and ethnographic objects.

During your stay in camping in Bayeuxdon't miss the Bayeux medieval festival held every year in July. The programme includes historical re-enactments, street performances, medieval games, music and dance.

Tips for visiting Bayeux

Bayeux is around 15 minutes' drive from Camping Reine Mathilde ***. Free parking is available at the entrance to the town (Place Saint-Patrice), with easy access to the historic centre. To avoid the crowds, visit the Tapestry early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

A combined pass gives reduced-price access to the Tapisserie, the MAHB and the Memorial. The town is pleasant to visit all year round, with a particular charm during the Medieval Festivals at the beginning of July and during the Christmas illuminations.

The Tourist Office, in rue Saint-Jean near the cathedral, offers themed guided tours and audio guides to help you discover the town at your own pace. For a bite to eat, the Saturday morning market is the ideal place to put together a picnic of local produce to enjoy in the public gardens.