Normandy is set for an eventful year, with several exciting events lined up. For the past three years, the region has been actively preparing for the Caen Millennium celebrations in 2025, forging strong partnerships. Meetings across the UK and Ireland, southern Italy, Denmark and Norway have fostered collaborations with cultural, political and tourism institutions. Also, a call for projects was launched to engage local tourism, culture, and sports stakeholders in creating events connected to William the Conqueror's millennium in 2027. Among the ideas already proposed is the creation of a European cultural route named 'The Norman Road,' designed to link various historical sites across Europe.

Additionally, 2025 will mark the launch of the Guillaume de Normandie (named after William the Conqueror), a new hybrid ferry that will enhance maritime links between the UK and Normandy. Set to begin service early in the year, this vessel represents a significant step toward greener travel while paying tribute to the region's rich maritime heritage. At the end of the summer work will also begin on the new Bayeux Tapestry Museum, which will open in 2027, to mark the millennium of the birth of William the Conqueror.

HONOURING NORMANDY'S LEGACY & A NEW ERA IN SUSTAINABLE SHIPPING

Brittany Ferries is ready to unveil the 'Guillaume de Normandie', one of its two new hybrid ferries marking a major step toward a greener future. These vessels reflect the company's ongoing commitment to sustainable development and support for local communities. Founded in 1972 by Alexis Gourvennec - a farmer with a vision of community and sustainable development - Brittany Ferries has remained true to its farming roots, with the farming community as its main shareholder. While the company is innovating with its new fleet, it remains committed to reducing its environmental impact while actively supporting the regions it serves.

THE CAEN MILLENNIUM: A PRELUDE TO THE WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR MILLENNIUM IN 2027

The Caen Millennium will be an exciting opportunity to celebrate a city rich in history, characters and heritage, which is the pride of its inhabitants – whether they live in Calvados or are expatriates elsewhere. The Millennium will invite all Normans and visitors to join in celebrating this historic anniversary with a full programme of artistic and cultural events.

The Caen Millennium is designed to shine a spotlight on the region and in the many areas that contribute to its unique character: culture, arts & sciences, research and economy. Numerous events and exhibitions will take place throughout the year, such as medieval reenactments, parades, concerts and theatrical performances that will bring history to life in the heart of Caen. These celebrations will also highlight its European connections such as the University of Caen, founded in 1432 by the English. The events will emphasise the broader impact of Normans on Ireland, Sicily and southern Italy, and the Channel Islands, fostering a collaborative European perspective. The Millennium will act as a significant precursor to the Millennium of William the Conqueror in 2027, leveraging these initiatives to ensure a successful celebration.

A FINAL OPPORTUNITY TO VIEW THE BAYEUX TAPESTRY BEFORE 2027

The Bayeux Tapestry Museum will close to visitors on September 1 and won't reopen until 2027. To meet this deadline, the current museum will have to be closed to the public after the 2025 summer season. While the new museum is being built, the Bayeux Tapestry will be kept in a storage area specifically designed for its conservation. The removal of the tapestry from its current display case and its conditioning will naturally be carried out in close collaboration with the services of the French State, owner of the artwork, in order to ensure the preservation of one of the most precious heritage objects of the 11th century, classified as a Historic Monument and listed in the UNESCO's Memory of the World register.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE ROLEX FASTNET RACE: A HISTORIC CONNECTION BETWEEN THE UK AND NORMANDY

The 100th anniversary of the Rolex Fastnet Race, starting on 26 July 2025, will commemorate the founding of the Royal Ocean Racing Club in 1925. As one of the world's premier offshore races, the Fastnet Race has long been an important tradition connecting the UK and Normandy. This year's edition will see participants race from Cowes, UK, to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, Normandy, making it a perfect occasion to celebrate the deep-rooted maritime connection between the two regions.

NORMANDY'S LOW CARBON RATE: A UNIQUE INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Normandy Tourism has introduced the Low Carbon Rate, a first-of-its-kind initiative in France aimed at promoting eco-friendly travel. Visitors who travel to Normandy by train, bus or bicycle will be eligible for discounts at over 70 cultural and tourist sites across the region. This innovative measure encourages sustainable tourism while supporting the local economy and reducing carbon emissions. Visitors can benefit from the discount by presenting a valid ticket or a photo of their bicycle, reinforcing Normandy's dedication to a more sustainable future.

THE TOUR DE FRANCE RETURNS TO NORMANDY

 The 2025 Tour de France route highlights Normandy, featuring three stages with two starts and three finishes. On 8 July, the fourth stage will cover 173 km from Amiens to Rouen, including the challenging Saint-Hilaire ramp. The fifth stage will be an individual time trial in Caen, while the sixth will take riders from Bayeux to Vire-Normandie on a hilly 201-km course before heading to Brittany. These key locations not only showcase Normandy's stunning landscapes but also promise an exciting competition, while celebrating Normandy's cultural and natural heritage.

Further information
Normandy Tourism