The Devils Porridge

The Devil’s Porridge is a museum in Eastriggs, Dumfries and Galloway. It tells the story of HM Factory Gretna, the greatest munitions factory in the world during WWI where the devil’s porridge, the explosive cordite, was mixed.

At one time there were 30,000 workers there and 12,000 of them were women. Their contribution to the war effort helped women to achieve the vote. Their 5-star rated, state-of-the-art museum is listed as one of the top things to do in the area. The museum uses artefacts, information panels, film, photos and oral histories to bring the history of the place to life. There are many interactive displays and there is a dedicated team of knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

Galleries include a look at life in the trenches, HM Factory Gretna, a 1940s house, a look at evacuee experiences, the bombing of Gretna in 1941 and more. They also run a number of special events, including themed events, for families. For children: each child is given an activity pack including a “factory pass” to stamp as they visit the Ground Floor and a Devil’s Porridge museum badge at the front desk. They have interactive games and touch screens with video and audio guides throughout the museum.