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Embroidered in 1077, this much-loved treasure unfolds, with astonishing detail, clarity and drama, the story of Duke William’s conquest of England. The galleries leading up to the tapestry bring the historical background vividly to life. The cloth itself – all 70 m (230 ft) of it – is displayed behind glass.

Using waxworks, this museum in an old monastery reconstructs the everyday life of the monks.

This new attraction, which creates an enthralling “subaquatic sensation”, has proved extremely popular, so in high season it’s advisable to arrive as early in the day as possible. The former maritime station is now home to Europe’s deepest aquarium. An added attraction is Le Redoutable, the first visitable French nuclear-powered submarine (built at Cherbourg). All of this introduces the visitor to the wonders of the underwater world, and to human adventures and achievements there. Allow three hours for your visit.

Admire the giant waterwheel that drove the machinery of this former paper mill on the River Sée.

See horse-drawn agricultural equipment, a miniature farm, a forge, and displays by Percheron draughthorses on this farm.

Dedicated to Normandy’s famous cheese, with a reconstruction of an old production plant.

In Claude Alexandre’s fascinating world of miniature soldiers, each figure is hand-crafted.

A moving and contemplative museum of remembrance, the Mémorial takes the visitor on a journey through the causes and consequences of World War II and the ensuing Cold War, using a host of interactive and audio-visual techniques, as well as fascinating archive footage. A recent extension to the museum acts as a place of reflection on peace and the means of achieving it.

In 1665, lacemakers in Alençon were given the challenge of creating lace equal in quality and popular appeal to that of Venice. They succeeded, coming up with a new and better technique, which made Alençon lace supreme until demand dropped in the 20th century. The story is told here, along with exquisite and intricate examples of the craft.

The heroine of Alexandre Dumas fils’ novel and play lived extravagantly in the Orne. This museum evokes her life.