Air War Europe: Colditz, Dambusters & the Great Escape
Follow the story of WW2 Airmen from the Dambusters to Colditz Castle in Germany and Holland as we look at the battlefields of the war in the air above Europe involving the men of RAF Bomber Command. On this tour we visit the RAF graves in Reichswald Forest War Cemetery then travel through the Ruhr Valley area on trips to the Eder Dam and Möhne Dam examining the Dambusters Raid. We later visit Colditz Castle, examine the firebombing of Dresden and the story of the Great Escape. In Berlin, we look at raids on the Nazi capital and also visit the Luftwaffe Museums in Gatow and Hannover. The tour ends with a visit to the grave of Dambuster hero Guy Gibson VC.
Tour Includes
- 8 nights hotel with continental breakfast
- Specialist Battlefield Guide
- Convenient local joining points
9 days from £1,399pp
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Itinerary
Please choose your preferred 9 day itinerary
Local departure by coach or Door-to-Door service, then to Holland for an overnight stay.
We travel into Germany and visit Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, the largest WW2 British Cemetery in Europe - nearly half the 7,400 graves are men from Bomber Command. From here we travel to the Möhne Dam. The Möhne Dam, in the Ruhr Valley, was heroically breached by the Lancasters of 617 Squadron (Dambusters) in 1943. At Möhne you can walk on top of the dam and still see where the breach was made. Of the 20 massive dams constructed in the Ruhr Valley, six dams were selected as targets with three of these being the primary targets - the Möhne, the Eder and the Sorpe dams. Between the Möhne and Sorpe, they held back 76% of the total water available to the industrial valley, one of the main reasons they were primary targets. If breached, these dams would bring the whole industrial valley to a standstill, causing massive damage to the steel industry, devastating production of tanks, aircraft, guns and locomotives which were all vital to Germany's war effort. As well as visiting Möhne Dam, we also make a stop at the Eder Dam en route to our overnight hotel.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
Today we will visit the castle and museum at Colditz (entrance included), the infamous ‘bad boys camp’ and scene of many ingenious escape bids. Perched above a sleepy town of the same name, Colditz has a varied history, although we will concentrate on its use as an internment camp for Allied prisoners during WW2. Hear the story of the ‘Red Fox’, Mike Sinclair, killed on an escape attempt, and also the story of Douglas Bader, plus many more. From Colditz we continue to Dresden and our hotel where we will stay for two nights.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
We stay in Dresden this morning to uncover the tumultuous history of this great city. As the seat of the Saxon royalty, Dresden became arguably Germany’s most beautiful city. During the war it suffered almost complete destruction; however, it has since been painstakingly restored to resemble its former glory. This afternoon is spent at leisure in Dresden, or alternatively you can join our optional visit to the Bundeswehr Military History Museum which has an unparalleled collection of WW2 artefacts.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
Optional Excursions
Our optional excursions are a great addition to enhance your holiday experience and are highly recommended.
| 2026 | 2027 | |
|---|---|---|
| Bundeswehr Military History Museum | 2026 From £10 | 2027 From £11 |
This optional excursion is available to pre-book or you can book during your tour.
Today we cross the border into Poland to Zagan to visit the German POW camp, Stalag (Luft) III. The camp, founded in 1943, was one of the six special German POW camps specially built for the ever increasing amount of POW aircrews. At the height of the camps use, about 10,000 commissioned and non-commissioned officers were in the camp. The Stalag (Luft) III became famous for what was known as ‘The Great Escape’. In March 1944, a large group of 80 Allied prisoners got out during ‘The Great Escape’. They dug a tunnel with the nickname ‘Harry’. Only three men managed to escape to free territory. Of the rest, 50 were murdered by the Gestapo. We will uncover the story of the escape and the reprisals ordered by Hitler, and visit the memorial, before continuing to our hotel in Berlin for two nights.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
In Berlin we look at the raids on the city but start at the impressive air force museum in Gatow, which has a large collection of aircraft from WWI to the Cold War Period. We then visit Berlin War Cemetery where many RAF Bomber Command Crews are buried. Around the city we see Flak Tower defences and the air raid shelters used to protect Berliners from the bombs. In the evening join us on an optional visit around Berlin’s WW2 sites.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
Optional Excursions
Our optional excursions are a great addition to enhance your holiday experience and are highly recommended.
| 2026 | 2027 | |
|---|---|---|
| Evening Tour of Berlin WW2 Sites | 2026 From £23 | 2027 From £24 |
This optional excursion is available to pre-book or you can book during your tour.
In the morning, we see one of the last remaining Flak Towers then travel to Hannover and visit the Air Force museum (entrance approximately €8 per person) which has some impressive WWII items as well as a memorial to Second World War air crew. In Hannover itself we see some of the signs of the bombing raids, ending the day at Hannover War Cemetery where more than 2,000 graves of bomber crew casualties can be found. We stay overnight in Hannover.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
We travel into Holland, stopping at Rheinberg War Cemetery where some of the Dambusters are buried. We end at the grave of Guy Gibson VC whose war ended when his Mosquito crashed at Steenbergen. We stay overnight in Belgium.
Includes Breakfast
Key Visits
Return home.
Includes Breakfast
Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
Accommodation
You will stay overnight in Holland at the NH Koningshof or similar, followed by another overnight stay in Weimar. You will then stay for two nights at the 3-star Andante Hotel Dresden or similar, followed by two nights in Berlin at a minimum 3-star hotel, such as the Vienna House Easy Berlin Prenzlauer Berg or similar. You will then have an overnight stay at the Wyndham Hannover Atrium or similar, and finally overnight in Belgium in a city-style hotel.
NH Koningshof
The NH Koningshof hotel is located in a green area on the outskirts of Veldhoven and is about 10km from Eindhoven city centre which is known as the 'The Silicon Valley of Europe'. The hotels facilities include Wi-Fi, Gym, swimming pool*, air conditioning, a restaurant, a bar and lounge. *The swimming pool can close without prior notice.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- English Speaking Staff
- 4 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Indoor Swimming Pool
- Lift
- Sauna or Steam Room
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Shower
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
Accessibility
- Fridge Available for Medical Requirements
- Disabled Rooms Available
- Wheelchair Access
Service
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Iron at Reception
- Gym
- Dog Friendly (selected rooms)
Transport
- Bus Stop Nearby
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals On Request
- Gluten Free Meals on Request
Hotel
- Swimming Pool
- English Speaking Staff
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Fora Hotel Hannover
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- English Speaking Staff
- 4 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Lift
Room
- Hairdryer
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
Accessibility
- Fridge Available for Medical Requirements
- Wheelchair Access
Service
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Iron at Reception
- Dog Friendly (selected rooms)
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals On Request
- Gluten Free Meals on Request
Hotel
- English Speaking Staff
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Azimut Hotel Dresden
The 4-star Azimut Hotel is located 5.5km away from the city of Dresden. The hotel facilities include a fitness rooms, lounge, a bar, a restaurant and Wi-Fi/Internet access.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- English Speaking Staff
- 4 Star
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
Room
- TV
- Hairdryer
- Fridge
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Shower or Bath
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
Service
- Safe Box in Reception
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Iron at Reception
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals
- Gluten Free Menu
Accessibility
- Disabled Rooms Available
- Wheelchair Access
Transport
- Bus Stop Nearby
- Train / Tram Nearby
Hotel
- English Speaking Staff
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Wyndham Hannover Atrium
Featuring contemporary architecture and interiors, plus a dramatic, light-filled atrium, this 4-star hotel sits on the edge of the peaceful Eilenriede Forest in Hannover. Expect comfortable bedrooms and a bright and airy restaurant.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- English Speaking Staff
- 4 Star
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
Room
- TV
- Hairdryer
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Telephone
- Shower over Bath
- Free Wifi
Service
- Safe Box in Reception
- Bureau de Change
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Iron at Reception
- Laundry Service
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals
- Gluten Free Menu
Transport
- Bus Stop Nearby
Hotel
- English Speaking Staff
- Bureau de Change
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Berlin Prenzlauer Berg
The Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Berlin Prenzlauer Berg is situated within walking distance of the nearest station, with excellent connections to the heart of the city.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- 3 Star
- English Speaking Staff
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Lift
- Central Location
Room
- TV
- Hairdryer
- Air Conditioning
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Shower or Bath
- Free Wifi
Service
- Safe Box in Reception
- 24 Hour Front Desk
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals
- Gluten Free Menu
Accessibility
- Disabled Rooms Available
- Wheelchair Access
Transport
- Train / Tram Nearby
Hotel
- English Speaking Staff
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Holiday Inn Eindhoven Airport
The 4-star Holiday Inn Eindhoven Airport is located in Eindhoven, and features both a bar and a restaurant. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a hairdryer, and safe.
Hotel Facilities
Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
General
- English Speaking Staff
- 4 Star
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
Room
- TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Hairdryer
- Extra Pillows and Blankets
- Safe Box
- Air Conditioning
- Non-Smoking Rooms Available
- Shower
- Telephone
- Free Wifi
- Iron or Trouser Press
Accessibility
- Fridge Available for Medical Requirements
- Disabled Rooms Available
- Wheelchair Access
Food & Drink
- Vegetarian Meals
- Gluten Free Menu
- Lactose or Dairy Free Menu
- Vegan Menu
Service
- Room Service Available
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Laundry Service
- Gym
Transport
- Bus Stop Nearby
Hotel
- English Speaking Staff
- Guest Lounge
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lift
- WiFi Available
Travel Options
When it comes to getting you to your destination, Leger Holidays makes it easy with a selection of travel options to choose from.
The pinnacle of luxury coach travel
Exclusive to Leger Holidays, these exceptional vehicles blend state-of-the-art features with sophisticated design, offering business-class comfort on the road. Try Luxuria once, and you’ll never look back – the journey will stay with you long after the holiday ends.
With just 31 spacious seats, enjoy a calm, unhurried atmosphere from the moment you step on board – because true comfort means more space, more privacy, and more time to relax. You’ll also benefit from a choice of seating, allowing you to travel in a way that suits you...
- Double Seats Designed for two, double seats are great for couples or friends travelling together – offering comfort, connection, and a relaxed way to share the journey.
- Single Seats Offering privacy and comfort, single seats are perfect for solo travellers who prefer a little more personal space.
-
Face-to-Face Seats
Face-to-face seats with personal tables are the sociable way to travel, ideal for card games, coffees and conversation.
With a superior average seat pitch – 32% greater than many leading short-haul airlines – Luxuria double seats offer unmatched personal space. Enjoy comfort that’s built in, not added on.
Luxuria Features
Entertainment at your fingertips
Immerse yourself in your own touch-screen TV, offering a world of films, TV shows, music, and games – entertainment designed around you.
The perfect pour
Our crew serves a selection of hot and cold beverages directly to your seat – ideal for staying refreshed throughout your journey.
Relax in unmatched comfort
Recline in spacious, ergonomically designed, armchair-style seating with generous legroom and experience a refined sense of luxury, crafted exclusively for your relaxation.
Stay connected
Keep your devices fully charged throughout your journey with USB ports and plug sockets at every seat – perfect for capturing memories and staying connected with loved ones.
Silver Service
From the attentive service to the carefully considered features, our Silver Service coaches create an atmosphere that is both friendly and memorable, bringing people together. Experience the difference – refined travel, shared moments, and lasting comfort.
- Designed for Socialising A stylish and spacious rear lounge offers a sophisticated and private place to unwind, where conversation flows easily and friendships are made along the journey.
- Privacy Board An innovative privacy screen creates a calm retreat away from the rest of the coach, giving you the choice to enjoy quiet seclusion while you socialise with fellow passengers.
- Tables with Cup Holders Thoughtfully designed cabinets with secure cup holders mean refreshments are always within easy reach, adding both practicality and polish to your travel experience.
Silver Service Features
Deluxe design
Specially designed, luxurious seats enhanced with leather headrests deliver superior support, blending comfort with a premium finish.
Space to stretch out
Enjoy the luxury of generous legroom that goes far beyond standard coach travel, giving you the freedom to settle in with ease and stretch out fully.
Spacious rear lounge
Designed for socialising, the spacious rear lounge offers a stylish retreat with privacy screens, handy tables and cup holders – perfect for relaxing, chatting and enjoying the journey.
Thoughtful touches that make a difference
A carefully maintained interior climate and soft ambient lighting ensure the coach always feels comfortable, welcoming and perfectly suited for a relaxing journey.
Reviews
5 Out of 5 ( 14 Reviews )
Reviews
Quality
4.9 / 5
Value for Money
4.9 / 5
Sheila Penton, 2 years ago
Exactly as described in the brochure. Well planned and the leader, Marc Hope, was excellent.
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
Alison Crisp, 2 years ago
Excellent from pick up to drop off. Drivers amazing and the Battlefield guide made our holiday just what we wanted and more
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
Miss Holden, 2 years ago
Excellent informative tour that covers a lot of history about the air war in Europe and the Dambuster Raid on the dams.
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
Mr Samuel Carr, 2 years ago
The entire tour/holiday was marvellous, it far exceeded my expectations. The tour content ticked every box, every day was enjoyable and we were provided with quality service, information/facts by the three reps (Mark, Chris and Dean) who worked together as a unit to enjoy our travel, good standards of the coach environment. Well done to the three of them. The accommodation was comfortable and clean, breakfast options were quite good It was the first time I have used Leger, I will be choosing another tour from their brochure.
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
Paul, 2 years ago
Exceeded my expectations. Very well organized. Knowledgeable, likeable guide who provided lots of information additional to the itinerary. So many bucket list locations ticked off. Traveling with a group of like minded individuals who jelled really well contributed to the whole experience. Looking forward to the next Leger adventure.
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
John Hillman, 2 years ago
Very interesting itinerary led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide.Travel and logistical arrangements all went well and to schedule. All crew were very helpful and hotels were comfortable.
Verified, collected via Trustpilot
Departure Dates
Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
