Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
ELITE WW2 RAIDERS - scotland - 3rd - 10th Oct
Join us for an in-depth 7 day exploration of the secretive world of WW2 Elite Raiders training in Scotland.
During WW2, the rugged landscapes of Scotland were ideal for training Allied forces in irregular warfare. The remote Lochaber region, particularly areas around Lochailort, Arisaig, and Achnacarry Castle, became essential training grounds for the Special Operations Executive (SOE), the Commandos, and elite units like the SAS and the Special Boat Section (SBS), who honed their skills in Ayrshire and Arran.
Country houses and lodges in Arisaig were requisitioned to accommodate small teams of SOE operatives, who trained intensively in sabotage, espionage, and guerrilla tactics. These recruits learned essential skills for covert operations behind enemy lines. In parallel, the nearby Achnacarry Castle, known as the "Commando Depot," became a legendary training site for British Commandos. This training demanded rigorous physical endurance, survival skills, and combat techniques suited to mountainous and coastal raids across Europe.
Ayrshire, too, hosted intensive training for the 22 SAS and the Special Boat Section, whose members needed to excel in amphibious and unorthodox warfare. Scotland’s varied and challenging terrain was crucial in forging these operatives into self-sufficient, highly skilled forces capable of carrying out complex missions in hostile environments. This demanding training laid the groundwork for the decisive roles these units played in Allied successes, helping to turn the tide of war. Come and follow in their footsteps as we learn their story.
SOE TRAINING
Our journey will take you across Scotland from the Cairngorms to Arisaig and the heart of SOE operations during World War 2, where agents from across Europe were trained in sabotage, espionage, and guerrilla warfare.
We’ll bring to life the extraordinary training, resilience, and skills that were crucial to the success of SOE agents, Commandos, and Kompani Linge men during World War 2.
We'll also visit where the elite Norwegian resistance fighters of Kompani Linge trained in the harsh Scottish Highlands before returning to their homeland to conduct sabotage operations against the Nazis.
There is an optional opportunity (but not compulsory) to participate in the following challenges during the expedition:
- 7-mile SOE Insertion Walk - Knoydart
These challenges are designed to provide you with a deeper connection to the historic training and operations of Special Forces during WW2.
COMMANDO TRAINING
Through visits to these historic sites, you'll learn the unique techniques that set these operatives apart, hear first-hand accounts from historical experts, and follow in the footsteps of legends.
Discover Achnacarry Castle, known as the "Commando Depot," where British Commandos underwent brutal training that prepared them for some of the most daring missions of the war.
Discover the stories behind some of their most famous operations—missions that played a pivotal role in turning the tide of the war and securing victory against Germany.
There is an optional opportunity (but not compulsory) to participate in the following challenges during the expedition:
- 7-mile Commando Speed March (Clean Fatigue)
- Commando Abseil Confidence Test
- 11km Commando Mountain Climb (Goatfell - Isle of Arran)
with Commando historian Ed Wilson
Former Royal Marine Commando Ed Wilson brings a wealth of experience and expertise in Commando history to our team.
Serving in the Royal Marines from 1980 to 2004, Ed is also the founder of The Scott Sutherland Project & Trail demonstrating his commitment to preserving and honouring Commando history.
