Ranville War Cemetery: A Place of Remembrance
Reflect on D-Day's cost at Ranville War Cemetery, the final resting place for British and German soldiers in Normandy, France.
Ranville War Cemetery is a poignant reminder of the Allied offensive during the Second World War. It primarily contains the graves of British soldiers, especially from the 6th Airborne Division, who liberated Ranville, the first village freed in France on D-Day. The cemetery also holds German graves, creating a space of reflection on war and peace.
A brief summary to Ranville War Cemetery
- 1 Rue du Comté Louis de Rohan Chabot, Ranville, 14860, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Download the CWGC's 'For Evermore' app for a virtual tour and to scan headstones for individual stories.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Pegasus Bridge and Memorial to understand the Airborne Division's role.
- Allow ample time for quiet reflection amidst the rows of headstones and the immaculately kept grounds.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Caen, the most convenient way to reach Ranville War Cemetery is by taking the Réseau Nomad Car line 111 bus. The bus departs from CAEN - Gare Routière (Caen Bus Station) and arrives at RANVILLE - Albert Camus. The journey takes approximately 18-26 minutes, with buses departing every few hours. From the RANVILLE - Albert Camus bus stop, it's a short walk to the cemetery. A single fare costs approximately €2-3.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Caen for direct transport to Ranville War Cemetery. The journey takes around 13 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 11 km. Expect to pay between €23 and €30 for the trip. Taxi services like Uber also operate in the area. Consider pre-booking a taxi, especially during peak tourist season.
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Driving
If driving from Caen, take the D513 northeast. After approximately 9 kilometers, turn left at Herouvillette, then north for 1 kilometer, and finally left into Ranville village. The cemetery is located on Rue du Comte Louis de Rohan Chabot. Parking is available in front of the main entrance in a lay-by or in a larger car park across the road behind a stone windmill, about 60 meters from the entrance. There are also two accessible parking bays at the far end of the cemetery.
Discover more about Ranville War Cemetery
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