Slapton Sands

Slapton Sands Slapton Sands is a long stretch of shingle beach which divides the sea from a nature reserve called Slapton Ley - a freshwater lake and marshland. The ley is a stopping off point for migratory birds and a haven for wildlife. To the west of Slapton is the tiny village of Torcross, (worth stopping here for a walk and fish and chip lunch or supper).

During the Second World War, in preparation for the landing of American forces on beaches in Normandy an area of 26 square miles, covering 8 villages and surrounding area, was evacuated to enable American troops to practice D Day Landings. A monument to the people "who generously left their homes and their lands" was presented by the United States after the war and stands by the car park at Slapton.

Many servicemen had died during the training, several hundred of them during a rehearsal for the D Day landings named Exercise Tiger, when German E-boats intercepted the convoy of landing craft. Their story came to light after a local hotelier discovered bullets and US dollars whilst beachcoming in 1968. Sherman Tank at Slapton Sands A Sherman tank recovered from the sea and a plaque dedicated to those who lost their lives now stands at Torcross as a lasting memorial. A tour to Slapton and Torcross can be arranged jointly with one to Britannia Royal Naval College.