It’s hard to imagine the thousands of troops launching from the sleepy Helford River, where yachts sail peacefully by, wildlife is in abundance and the water laps the shores. yet 75 years ago this place was filled with American troops from the 29th Infancy Division preparing and launching for the D Day landings, one of the most important turning points by the Allies in the Second World War.
Trebah Beach
Trebah Beach, on the Helford River, was the ideal location for the troops to launch and this week Trebah Gardens are commemorating with the theatre production Operation Neptune.
The Budock Vean Hotel, just along the Helford River, tucked away on Port Navas Creek, was the officer quarters during the embarkation of the troops from Trebah and are sponsoring Trebah Garden with their production of ‘Operation Neptune – The American’s are Coming’ over 5 nights from 11th – 15th June.
OFFER: 15%* OFF A B&B OR DB&B STAYING DURING THIS PERIOD INCLUDING A TICKET TO THE SHOW FOR CURRENT AND EX SERVICE PERSONNEL.
Quote: Operation Neptune when booking. *15% represents average discount. T&Cs apply: www.budockvean.co.uk/offers/d-day-75
A little known fact is that soldiers also launched from Wytham Quay, on Frenchman’s Creek.
A customer on one of our Helford River Cruises broke down in tears when he saw Wytham Quay. When asked what was wrong he explained that he recognised the quay from his childhood. He had stood here and waved off troops setting out to fight with the Allies during the second world war.
You can see Trebah Beach, Wytham Quay and Budock Vean Hotel on our daily 90 minute Helford River Cruises from the Budock Vean Hotel.
Cruise times this week are:
Monday 3rd June – 4.30pm
Tuesday 4th June – 7.15pm
Wednesday 5th June – 6pm
Thursday 6th June – 6.30pm
Friday 7th June – 7.30pm
Saturday 8th June – 9.30am
Sunday 9th June – 10.30am
For future cruise times please contact us and you can book you cruise here
