France: Things to do in Bayeux With Kids
Bayeux has always been on my to-do list, since learning about the Bayeux Tapestry in primary school, so it was definitely a place we wanted to stop off at on our French road-trip. We only had one day in this beautiful city so here is our selection of top things to see in Bayeux.
The Bayeux Tapestry and Museum
The Bayeux Tapestry is obviously a must-see when visiting the city. It is a nearly 70 metres long piece of embroidered linen depicting William the Conqueror’s conquest of England: the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and the events leading up to it. The tapestry is housed behind glass in a darkened room and you walk along it with an audio-guide telling you exactly what is happening in each section. Children are given a special audio-guide which tells the events as a story, helping them to understand exactly what they are seeing. My 7 year old was engrossed and even my 3 year old enjoyed it. After you have viewed the tapestry you then look round a museum, telling you more about the conquest, the tapestry and Anglo-Norman life. You can also view a short film about the battle.
The Cathedral of Notre Dame de Bayeux
The Cathedral is absolutely stunning, both on the outside and inside – it really takes your breath away. There is a strong emphasis on peace within the cathedral with various displays about peace-makers, such as Gandhi and Martin Luther King, and a designated chapel where you can pray for peace. The crypt of the cathedral dates from the 11th century, with murals from the 15th century, and really sparked my children’s imaginations. In front of the cathedral is the archeological remains of a 10th Century building, thought to have been a luxurious home for a distinguished clergyman and to the side of the Cathedral is the Bishop’s Palace and the Place de la Liberte.
The Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy
The Musée Mémorial Bataille de Normandie focuses on the D-Day Landings with exhibitions and memorabilia. There is also a selection of tanks, jeeps and weaponry on show. It is an essential place to visit if you are interested in the Second World War and the liberation of Europe and the displays aren’t too graphic so it is suitable for children. (We did avoid the area showing a short film, just in case.)
The Streets of Bayeux
Walking round the streets of Bayeux is a fascinating activity in itself. It is definitely one of the prettiest towns I have ever visited, with its beautiful buildings and winding streets. Until visiting Bayeux I was unaware that it was the first city in France to be liberated but this is evident everywhere you look, with British, American and Canadian flags flying everywhere, and most of the shop windows are decorated with poppies and friezes commemorating the liberation.
Have you ever visited Bayeux? Do you have any other recommendations of things to see or do? Please feel free to comment below!
Pin for later:
N.B. All photos on this site are the property of typicalmummy.co.uk unless otherwise stated. Please do not use without permission.
20 Comments
Laura - Dear Bear and Beany
What a beautiful place to visit. It looks so pretty.
Elaine
I had no idea that Bayeux was such a pretty place with more than the tapestry to see.
Love the photos
Sarah | Boo Roo and Tigger Too
A beautiful area to visit, I can remember learning about the Bayeux tapestry at school and being fascinated by it
Alex Grace
Bayeux sounds completely up my street! Your photos are lovely, it looks like such a pretty place steeped with history. I’ll keep this in mind for our next break to France, thanks for sharing! x
typicalmummy
Thank you Alex! X
Jeanna
I don’t know if some of your graphics are photo or paintings, all I know is that they look incredible on my laptop. It’s a win win if you can get kids interested. My nephews are history buffs so this would have worked for them when they were the right age. All that exercise, fresh air and an education, how can you beat it?
typicalmummy
Awww thank you! All photos. And yes, Bayeux is a win win all round!!
karen reekie
We loved our visit there, when we went, it’s such a pretty town and so much to see and do. I think we will go back next time we are local. You took some fab photos!
typicalmummy
Aww thank you! I do love my photography!
Amy - All about a Mummy
I loved seeing the Bayeux tapestry up close and found it really mesmerising but the crowds pushing and shoving was a nightmare!
typicalmummy
We must have gone on a good day as it wasnt too busy at all!
Lyndsey O'Halloran
I’ve never been but it looks like a beautiful place. I think I’d love to go to the cathedral.
Sabina Green
Wow, lovely photos, it all looks so quaint and pretty. There looks like there is plenty to see and do there.
Ami throughamiseyes
Wow! It looks so beautiful there! I’d never heard of it before but I’d love to visit it after seeing your photos!
Anosa
Got to love French cities, not been to this one before but definitely would want to check it out.
Jenni
I had no idea Bayeux was so picturesque! The first picture at the top reminds me a little of Dean Village here in Edinburgh, which is very beautiful too.
Frankie
We were in Normandy earlier this year for the D Day anniversary celebrations but we didn’t manage to get to see the Bayeux Tapestry so we’ll just have to organise another trip.
Clare Minall
Wow, this place looks incredible. There’s so much to do and see there! Looks like a brilliant place to take the whole family
Confessions of a New Mummy
It looks like a beautiful place to visit. Thanks for linking up #twinklytuesday
Marie Blake
These pictures are absolutely gorgeous, looks like it can be enjoyed by all ages too!