Excursion Echoes of history: the german occupation in guernsey tour at Saint Peter Port

Guernsey, the second largest island in the Channel Islands carries a history that few know. During World War II, Germany took occupation of the island to try and strengthen their position in the war, using Guernsey’s close proximity to France to their advantage. From 1940 to 1945, Germany built a number of fortifications on the Channel Islands, becoming one of the most fortified parts of the Atlantic Wall created by Hitler. Expecting a swift win over Britain, Germany experimented by using a gentle approach with the locals on the island. The island authorities adopted a similar attitude towards the Germans, often being misunderstood as collaborating with them. Now, over 75 years after the occupation, the lingering imprints of World War II remain evident.

Step back in time with an exclusive guided visit of Batterie Mirus with a WWII expert. Not open to the general public, Batterie Mirus is the largest Gun Batterie in the Channel Islands. Having a range of 51km, all guns were removed in the early 1950s leaving the reinforced concrete structures behind. Hear stories of how these guns were brought to the island and to Batterie Mirus.

Following your exclusive visit to Batterie Mirus, travel along the picturesque west coast of the island to Pleinmont Gun Batterie. Situated atop of the rugged cliffs of Pleinmont Point this batterie although small would have commanded a formidable defensive position.  Pleinmont Gun Batterie was one of several coastal artillery batteries constructed by German forces during the occupation of Guernsey. The purpose of the batterie was to defend against potential allied invasion attempts whilst also to control the maritime approaches to the island. Today, Pleinmont Gun Batterie serves as a poignant reminder of Guernsey’s wartime past, offering an insight into the Island’s role in defending against external threats during World War II.

Next, sample the local cuisine with lunch at a local restaurant before visiting The German Occupation Museum.  The Museum is a privately owned by Richard Heaume who started collecting items left behind from the war in his own garden when he was a schoolboy. Today, he owns the largest and most accurate collection of Occupation items and documents in the Channel Islands.  

Conclude your discovery with a visit to the German Underground Hospital, the Channel Islands’ largest underground structure built during the war. Walk down the once busy corridors that span across 7000 square meters, built by slave workers captured by Germany during the occupation.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Occupation Museum

Note

This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for, with a few steps to negotiate to get on and off the coach and at the Occupation Museum.  The tour sequence may vary.