Former WWII Nazi POW Camp in Scotland Transformed into Thriving Community Hub

Cultybraggan Camp, a former World War II prisoner-of-war camp in Perthshire, Scotland that once housed senior Nazi prisoners, has been transformed into a thriving community venue. The camp, which could accommodate up to 4,000 prisoners during the war, is now home to a diverse mix of small businesses, a museum, and even Airbnb accommodations.

After World War II, the camp was briefly empty before being reopened by the Ministry of Defense as a training facility. It served in this capacity until its closure in 2004. In 2007, the Comrie Development Trust, a group of over 600 local volunteers, purchased the land from the Ministry of Defense with the vision of turning it into a unique community space.

Today, Cultybraggan Camp houses a variety of local businesses that have set up shop in the former prisoner huts. These include Beetroot and Chocolate, a catering business, and CrossFit Cultybraggan, a popular gym. The camp also hosts several community support groups and volunteer organizations, such as a men's shed that has transformed two of the huts into a warm and inviting space for socializing and hobbies.

One of the key features of Cultybraggan Camp is its on-site museum, which allows visitors to learn about the camp's storied history. Tourists can explore exhibits detailing what life was like for the Nazi prisoners held there during World War II. The museum serves as an important educational resource and helps preserve the historical significance of the site.

Why this matters: The transformation of Cultybraggan Camp from a former Nazi POW site into a vibrant community hub stands as a powerful example of how historic spaces can be repurposed to serve modern needs. By blending its wartime past with a thriving present, the camp has become a unique model for sustainable community development and historical preservation.

The local community has embraced Cultybraggan Camp, with residents like Sam Walker and Miles Key appreciating the unique setting and community atmosphere. "The site is historically important, and there are plans to develop its tourism potential," said a spokesperson for the Comrie Development Trust. With its mix of small businesses, community groups, and historical attractions, Cultybraggan Camp has become a one-of-a-kind destination that continues to evolve and grow.

Key Takeaways

• Cultybraggan Camp, a former WWII POW camp, transformed into a community hub.
• The camp now houses small businesses, a museum, and Airbnb accommodations.
• Comrie Development Trust purchased the camp in 2007 to create a community space.
• The museum educates visitors about the camp's history as a Nazi POW site.
• The camp's repurposing serves as a model for sustainable community development.