Named after the famous British Prime Minister, Hotel Churchill was the first hotel to reopen after the liberation of France and can count several renowned Allied leaders, such as General Patton and Winston Churchill himself, as guests. This quaint and cozy boutique has maintained much of its original pre-war feel and is decorated throughout with numerous Second World War-related photographs and souvenirs including original maps, badges, and shell cartridges. The ambience is warm and homey and the owners, Eric and Patricia Péan, are usually on hand to welcome guests and offer advice on World War II related tours and trips.

The hotel in located in the historic heart of Bayeux -- just off an attractive little square next to a 14th-century bridge crossing a small river. Most of the town's main tourist attractions are well within walking distance -- the museum holding the famous tapestry and the impressive Gothic cathedral are just minutes away on foot. The surrounding area is full of quaint cafes and restaurants, while the departure spot for D-Day beach tours is just behind the hotel and the infamous Omaha Beach is a 16-mile drive away.

The hotel's 32 rooms are all decorated in a traditional, homey fashion with antique furnishings, patterned carpets and curtains, and colorful wall art including medieval-style tapestries. Wi-Fi is free of charge and standard amenities include tea and coffee facilities and flat-screen TVs with English channels. Bathrooms are fairly modern, with wooden floors and wall-mounted hair dryers -- some have twin basins, bathrobes, and separate toilets. Rooms generally haven't been maintained as well as the rest of the hotel -- many are showing signs of wear and there have been reports of mustiness.

A buffet breakfast is available in the light and airy conservatory, though it's not included in the rate, and a bit expensive for what you get. The hotel organizes a daily shuttle service to Mont Saint-Michel each morning (for a pretty hefty fee) while the hotel's bar lounge is a pleasant enough place to unwind after a day exploring the area. The hotel's gift shop next door also has a wide range of locally-produced food and drink and tourist knick-knacks.