Airborne at the Bridge, Arnhem (must see)

Airborne at the Bridge offers a focused and moving introduction to one of Arnhem’s defining moments during the Second World War. Located near the John Frost Bridge, the site marks the area where British paratroopers of the 1st Airborne Division held their ground during the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. This compact exhibition explores the experiences of the soldiers and civilians who found themselves at the centre of a battle that was meant to secure a key Rhine crossing as part of Operation Market Garden. Through personal testimonies, photographs, film footage, and detailed accounts of the fighting around the bridge, the presentation brings visitors close to the human impact of the operation and the toll it took on the city.

Inside, the displays focus on the stories of Lieutenant Colonel John Frost and his men, who defended the northern end of the bridge for several days despite being heavily outnumbered. Their stand has become one of the most recognised episodes of the battle, symbolising both determination and the tragic outcome of a mission that could not be sustained. The exhibition places these events in context, explaining the broader strategy, the difficulties faced by the airborne troops, and the lasting consequences for Arnhem and its residents. With its clear narrative and evocative location overlooking the bridge itself, Airborne at the Bridge provides an accessible and insightful stop for anyone seeking to understand Arnhem’s wartime history and the legacy of the battle that shaped the city’s memory.