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Tracing Paddy Mayne & the Early Commandos
For our special forces-themed weekend, we’ll be based in North Ayrshire, tracing the footsteps of the early Commandos and Special Boat Section during the Second World War.
This immersive trip is inspired by the early training grounds and operational bases of some of the most legendary Special Forces figures, including Lt. Col. Paddy Mayne and Major Geoffrey "Courtney."
We’ll visit the original training grounds for the Independent Commando Companies, where a young Paddy Mayne experienced the toughness, endurance, and tactics that would help shape him into one of the most legendary figures in the SAS.
We’ll also uncover the story of Major Geoffrey “Courtney” and the development of Britain’s early maritime special operations, exploring the men and methods that helped establish the foundations of the Special Boat Section.
We’ll visit Largs and explore its important wartime connections, learning about the preparations, training, and planning that took place along the Ayrshire coast in the build-up to D-Day and the liberation of Europe.
While on Arran, we’ll take on the climb up Goatfell, the island’s highest peak, following in the footsteps of the early commandos who trained in the same rugged landscape.
It promises to be a powerful and memorable weekend, blending history, adventure, and tribute to the men who helped shape the legacy of Britain’s Special Forces.
A WW2 Journey across Arran
Join us for a WW2-themed day trip on the Isle of Arran, we’ll begin where a young Paddy Mayne and the Independent Companies first trained in 1940.
The harbour and surrounding coastline were used for navigation drills, beach landings, and small boat exercises, with Holy Isle visible just offshore a key feature in their orientation.
From here, we’ll head to the Heritage Museum which contains exhibits and archives relating to the island’s wartime role and may offer further insights into the training carried out here.
A light hike through the glen brings history to life in the same rugged terrain where they prepared for missions behind enemy lines.
The day ends back in Brodick for dinner and reflection—paying tribute to the grit and innovation of those who trained on this very ground.
iMMERSE YOURSELF IN WARTIME beginnings of special forces
Includes transport, ferry, guide fees, and access to historical sites across Ayrshire.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend on the stunning west coast of Ayrshire.
Cost: £800
Experience SAS AND COMMANDO BEGINNINGS
Join us as we embark on an immersive WW2 weekend in the heart of Scotland, following in the footsteps of the Belgian, French, and British SAS, with a Special focus on the legendary Paddy Mayne and the Independent Commando Companies.
We'll explore key areas where these elite forces trained, prepared for covert operations, and developed the tactics that would shape the future of special warfare. One of the highlights of the weekend is a day trip to the island of Arran, where the first Commandos, including a young Mayne underwent intense early training in rugged terrain.
From coastal drills and small boat exercises to demolition practice in remote glens, this landscape played a vital role in shaping the men who would carry out daring missions across Europe. Blending history, exploration, and remembrance, this experience offers a unique opportunity to walk the same paths and reflect on the courage and legacy of those who paved the way for our modern day Special Forces.
“The art of guerrilla warfare will be an essential part of the campaign of liberation.”
Winston Churchill
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