Location: 

Exeter, Devon

Operator

Julia Morris MITG- A Taste of England Tours

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In the story of World War II the beautiful county of Devon might appear an idyllic sanctuary remote from conflict but, in fact, it was one of the most militarised counties in England.  Both the southern and northern coastlines were considered vulnerable to German invasion and because Plymouth and Exeter were within reach of the Luftwaffe’s bases in France they suffered heavy bombardment.  The Battle of Britain reached as far west as Plymouth and Devon’s airfields became vital to the defence of the western approaches in the Battle of the Atlantic. In the event Devon was only invaded by friendly outsiders. Evacuees and refugees came to escape the war needing the support and generosity of the people of Devon. In 1943 the arrival of thousands of American G.I.s brought the county to the forefront of preparations for the liberation of Europe and introduced a new and exciting culture to a war weary population.

Our day’s tour begins in Exeter where we will discover the stories of the evacuees hoping for sanctuary in Devon from aerial bombardment. We explore the heart of this ancient city to trace how the ‘Baedeker Raids’ of 1942 devastated much of the medieval core and the miraculous survival of the cathedral. We spend time exploring the lovely buildings of Cathedral Green and walk along the Roman walls to Princes Hay to understand how the city has been restored and rebuilt with the ancient and new juxtaposed. We uncover the heroic story of those who helped save the cathedral and even Mary of Exeter: a valiant pigeon! There will be time to enjoy refreshments in a local cafe or visit the cathedral.

The afternoon’s guided coach tour heads east into scenic Devon countryside to uncover the little known story of the US forces based at Dunkeswell and Upottery from where their aircraft patrolled the seas of the western approaches and the Bay of Biscay in the war against the U-boat menace of the Battle of the Atlantic. From late 1943 US troops began to arrive in preparation for Operation Overlord: the largest amphibious operation ever undertaken. The airfield at Upottery holds a particular place in this story as the departure base for Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (the Band of Brothers) who landed in Normandy behind enemy lines in the crucial hours before the main landings. We stop at one or both airfields (depending on group preferences) where we will be joined by site guides to help us discover what remains of these vital bases.

The Highlights:  

• A full day tour led by a Blue Badge Guide
• Use of personal radio receiver connected to Tour Guide wireless audio transmission system for improved audibility and social distancing on walk
• Fascinating walking tour around Exeter to discover the city’s WW2 experiences, including the devastating Baedeker raids, the rebuilding of the city and the historic buildings around the Cathedral.
• 1/2 day coach tour into rural Devon to explore the crucial part played by Devon in the Battle of Britain, Battle of the Atlantic and D-Day.
• Includes a tour of Dunkeswell or Upottery with an airfield guide.
• Option to investigate locations associated with group members; given adequate notice and information.

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Price

From £110 pp based on group of 6 including commissions.

From £32 pp based on group of 15 including commissions.  This includes entrance and tour at one airfield.

Group Size

Min. 2 Max 30.

Contact

Julia Morris MITG- A Taste of England Tours

www.atasteofenglandtours.com     
07817 364981   
julia@atasteofenglandtours.com