Historical Sightseeing at The Devil's Porridge Museum - Gretna
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No particular fitness level required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
Overview
Discover the intriguing history of HM Factory Gretna at The Devil’s Porridge Museum. Dive into interactive exhibits and uncover stories that shaped women’s rights during WWI.
Admission Tickets
For all ages • Open daily • Experience a fantastic modern interactive museum
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About This Adventure
Explore the captivating history of the Devil’s Porridge Museum, where the extraordinary tale of HM Factory Gretna unfolds. Discover how 30,000 workers, including 12,000 women, contributed to the war effort and women's suffrage. This award-winning, state-of-the-art museum offers interactive exhibits that bring this remarkable story to life.
Duration: Open Daily
Discover the remarkable wartime story of the Greatest Munitions Factory on Earth.
Highlights
The Devil’s Porridge Museum tells the story of HM Factory Gretna, the greatest munitions factory on earth in World War One, where the devil’s porridge (or cordite, an explosive) was mixed. There were 30,000 workers: 12,000 of them were women. Their contribution to the war effort helped women to achieve the vote. Our state of the art, award-winning, 5 star-rated museum is one of the top things to do in Dumfries and Galloway.
Important to Know
Last admission is 45 minutes before closing. Group bookings by appointment all year please contact us for prices. For children: each child is given “factory pass” to stamp as they visit the Ground Floor, and a Devil’s Porridge Museum badge at the front desk. Once completed we have interactive games and touch screens with video and audio guides throughout the Museum. If you Gift Aid your admission ticket on arrival (no extra charge) you will be able to visit again for free for the entire year.
Adventure Tips
Visit during off-peak hours
Arrive early or late in the day to enjoy a less crowded experience and more personalized attention.
Check for special events
Look out for temporary exhibitions or events that provide deeper insights into wartime history.
Bring a notebook or sketchpad
Capture your favorite exhibits or jot down thoughts inspired by this historic site.
Plan your visit with local eateries
Gretna has charming cafes and eateries to enjoy after the tour, perfect for reflecting on what you learned.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds such as barn swallows and sparrows
- Small mammals in the surrounding fields
History
The factory was established in 1915 and played a crucial role in Britain’s wartime manufacturing efforts, symbolizing remarkable industrial resilience.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining the site responsibly and encouraging visitors to respect the historic environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Carlisle
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring the indoor exhibits and outdoor surroundings comfortably.
Notebook or sketchpad
Great for jotting down insights or sketching visuals inspired by the exhibits.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress accordingly to stay comfortable when walking around the outdoor areas.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone for photos
Capture memorable moments from your visit to share later or keep as souvenirs.