The Clifton and Durdham Downs features in many stories throughout Bristol’s history, so it’s no surprise that this expansive piece of open land in the city played a key role during WW2 and specifically as the allies prepared for D-Day.

In 1943 the Downs became an American tank base during the build up to the invasion. On Clifton Down, Ladies Mile was used for military vehicle storage, with 149 vehicles and six huge canvas hangars.

On Durdham Down, Sea Walls was used as an armoured fighting vehicle servicing area.

To find out more about Bristol’s role in D-Day, you can read a fascinating article published on Bristol Live.