My name is James Dinsdale and I am a Battlefield enthusiast. I am also a member of The Guild of Battlefield Guides. I have been visiting Battlefields all over the world for over 25 years. From Gettysburg to Hiroshima, Stalingrad to the Falklands, Agincourt to Isandlwana, you name it and there is a good chance I’ve been there.
I now spend a lot of my time at my home near Bayeux in Normandy where I can indulge my interests in Battlefields and fine food.
If you are coming to Normandy and are interested in the Battlefields I may be able to help you.
I drive a Mitsubishi Shogun which is a seven seater 4x4 so it is confortable for 4 guests but I can squeeze in more if this essential.
2. How long is a tour?
Normally I would expect us to meet at 9.30am and be finished by 5.30pm.
3. Where do we meet?
I will pick you up and drop you off where you are staying or arriving from.
4. Food and drink?
Most people ask me to take them to a modestly priced restaurant along the route for lunch. We can be very flexible, if you prefer packed lunches then you can bring you own or I can provide them (€10 per person). Alternatively if you want to visit a gourmet establishment this can usually be accommodated too. It is a good idea to bring some drinks and snacks with you too. Food and drink is not included in the tour price. Remember in France lunches are not quick and time eating detracts from time touring.
5. Museum entrance fees
Museum fees are payable in addition to my fees but in Normandy they are usually quite modest. I recommend a Normandie pass which saves money.
6. How do I pay?
I accept cash (Euros, Stirling), cheques drawn on British and French clearing banks (paid in advance), bank transfers or if you wish to pay by card Paypal. A 25% deposit is taken on booking with the balance due 28 days before the tour. Refunds are not normally made within 14 days of the tour date.
7. How much does it cost?
I charge €90 per day per person, minimum three people, there is a supplement if you need picking up from Le Havre, Cherbourg or Rouen.
8. How fit do I have to be?
All tours can be tailored to meet individual requirements, the tours are not coach tours, we walk the actual battlefields and they can be tiring for older guests.
9. Can I come from Paris for a day-trip by train?
The earliest train into Bayeux arrives at 9.27am so this is possible, you will normally catch the 5.27pm home.
10. I use a wheelchair, can I book a tour with you?
Yes, if you have your own transport or you have a folding wheelchair and are sufficiently mobile to get in and out of a vehicle with untrained help.
11. Are your tours only for diehard detail buffs?
All tours are tailored for those on them be they novice or expert.
12. Can you book accommodation for us?
No but I can recommend hotels, guest house and gites here.
13. Can we bring children?
I normally find that children over 12 find tours interesting enough to last the day out. You can bring younger children if you like.
14. What should I wear?
Sturdy shoes, trainers or walking boots are recommended. Outside of the summer be prepared for winter weather.
15. Are you insured?
Yes I am insured to take battlefield tours, but you must have your own travel insirance too.
16. We are on a Cruise ship visiting Cherbourg, Le Havre or Rouen, can we do a tour?
Yes, but motorway tolls, the additional mileage and time necessitates an additional charge of €175 from Rouen, €150 from Le Havre and €90 from Cherbourg.
17. Can I fly into Carpiquet for a day-trip?
Yes, there are direct flights from to both Paris and Lyon. The Paris flight usually arrives at 11.20am and leaves at 8.45pm so the day is pushed forward a little.
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