D-DAY DEVON – OPERATION TIGER COACH TOUR
Departure and End locations:
Plymouth Cruise Tender or Barbican
Recommended group size:
2-6 travelling in an SUV
20-25 people for a coach excursion
Prices on application (Coach to be arranged and paid for by operator)
The Itinerary:
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Plymouth and journey to Dartmouth, a scenic Devon harbour with an entrance guarded by a late medieval fort from where there are superb views of the surrounding coast.
Journey in comfort to Slapton Sands where ‘Operation Tiger’, part of a series of exercises carried out on the beaches of south Devon prior to the D-Day landings in June 1944, took place. Slapton Sands was a perfect choice for the preparations being similar to the beach at ‘Utah’ where the Americans would be landing on June 6th.
Hear poignant stories of how the locals were moved out of the area in late 1943 so that manoeuvres and exercises were done under the strictest of secrecy and of how a major disaster occurred when the operation was intercepted by the enemy resulting in hundreds of US Army casualties.
We visit memorials and plaques, including the American Sherman Tank, rescued from the sea by a local hotelier, to remind us of those who lost their lives here on the beach bordering Lyme Bay.
Take time to reflect and visit the small neighbouring village of Torcross which, like Slapton, has struggled against the ravages of the sea for many centuries. Explore Dartmouth with your Blue Badge Guide before returning to Plymouth.
The Highlights:
- A full day tour led by your very own local Blue Badge Guide with private transport.
- Panoramic tour including Plymouth’s historic Barbican, Mayflower Steps, Hoe and Waterfront.
- A panoramic tour that leads us to the beautiful coastline at Slapton Sands, situated in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Visit Slapton Sands to view the numerous memorials, including the Sherman Tank recovered from the sea, and roll of honour to the US soldiers that lost their lives during Operation Tiger.
- A guided walk to explore Dartmouth, a jewel of a coastal town, with your personal Blue Badge Guide. Meander through historic streets, passing artisan eateries, local art and craft shops and vintage markets. Time to wander Dartmouth at your leisure and perhaps visit a 14th century pub, or another eatery of your choice for lunch.
A half day tour with start and end in Dartmouth is also available