Perthshire Museums

in partnership with Perthshire Local and Enjoy Perthshire

Cultybraggen Camp

Perthshire Museums

Cultybraggen Camp

Cultybraggan Camp is a former prisoner of war camp located near the village of Comrie in Perthshire, Scotland. It has a rich and fascinating history that spans over seven decades. Originally built during World War II, the camp was used to house prisoners of war captured during the conflict. Today, it stands as a reminder of the past and serves as a popular destination for visitors interested in learning more about its history.

Cultybraggan was constructed in 1941 as a temporary camp to house Italian prisoners of war. However, as the war progressed, the camp became a more permanent fixture and began to house German prisoners as well. At its peak, the camp held over 4,000 prisoners and was one of the largest of its kind in Scotland.

The prisoners at Cultybraggan were put to work on local farms and in forestry, helping to alleviate the labour shortage caused by the war. Despite the difficult conditions, the camp was known for its relatively humane treatment of the prisoners, with many of them forming close relationships with the local community.

After the war ended, Cultybraggan was used as a military training facility before being decommissioned in the 1960s. It was then taken over by the Territorial Army and used as a training camp until the early 2000s.

In recent years, Cultybraggan has been transformed into a heritage and visitor centre, offering guided tours and educational programs for visitors interested in learning more about its history. The camp features a number of original buildings, including barracks, mess halls, and a chapel, that have been preserved to give visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the prisoners and soldiers who once lived and worked there.

Visitors to Cultybraggan can explore the site on their own or take part in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insight into the camp’s history and significance. The camp also hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year, giving visitors the opportunity to engage with its history in a more interactive way.

Images: Facebook – Cultybraggen Camp