Maisy Battery

About

Maisy Battery, situated in Grandcamp-Maisy, Normandy, is a remarkable World War II relic that offers visitors a rare glimpse into the secret German fortifications of the Atlantic Wall. After being buried for half a century, the site was rediscovered in 2004 and opened to the public in 2006, revealing more than 2 km of original trenches, bunkers, ammunition tunnels, and hospital buildings. Guests can walk through the extensive network of casemates and trenches, guided by explanatory panels that detail the strategic importance of the battery during the D‑Day invasion. The on‑site museum showcases German artillery pieces, weaponry, and wartime artifacts, while interactive exhibits provide context for both casual visitors and history enthusiasts. The battery’s layout—comprising three main batteries (Les Perruques, La Martinière, and Foucher Farm)—offers a compelling narrative of covert garrison life and the challenges faced by German troops. Guided tours are available upon request, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the site's history following a personal briefing by Keeper Gareth Sterne, the owner who championed the site's preservation. With its well‑preserved trenches, original sandbags, and authentic wartime equipment, Maisy Battery is an unrivaled destination for those fascinated by military history, photography, or simply seeking to experience a pivotal chapter of World War II up close. The extensive grounds, accessible by foot, ensure that families and solo travelers alike can explore at their own pace while pausing to appreciate the surviving wartime infrastructure. Opening hours vary seasonally: from April–May and September, the site operates 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; during the busy summer months (June–August), hours extend to 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., with a daily midday break on weekdays at 12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. during the first ten days of August. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, and a 5 % discount is available for early bookings.

Highlights

• German Trenches
• WWII Bunkers
• Historical Exhibits

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing