Hut 9, Island Farm: The Largest WWII German POW Escape Site in Britain
Explore the preserved Hut 9 at Island Farm, the site of Britain’s largest WWII German POW escape and a unique window into wartime history.
Hut 9 at Island Farm in Bridgend is a preserved World War II German prisoner of war camp site, famed for the largest POW escape in Britain. Originally built as dormitories for munitions workers, it later housed 1600 German POWs, including high-ranking officers. The site’s iconic Hut 9, where 70 prisoners tunneled out in 1945, remains intact and is a Grade II listed building, maintained by dedicated volunteers who keep the camp’s rich history alive.
A brief summary to Hut 9, Island Farm
- A48, Bridgend, CF31 3LG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during open days organized by the Hut 9 Island Farm Preservation Society for guided tours and detailed historical insights.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site includes outdoor areas and walking around the preserved hut.
- Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Royal Ordnance Factory heritage sites to understand the full wartime context.
- Check local event schedules for commemorations and educational talks related to Island Farm and WWII history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Bridgend town center to the A48 near Island Farm; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run regularly but check schedules in advance. Walking from the bus stop involves a short, flat path to the site.
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Car
Driving from Bridgend town center takes about 10 minutes via the A48. Limited parking is available near the site, so early arrival is recommended. The roads are well-maintained and accessible year-round.
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Walking
For those staying in Bridgend, a 45-minute walk along mostly flat terrain leads to Island Farm. The route passes through suburban and semi-rural areas, suitable for most fitness levels.
Hut 9, Island Farm location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hut 9, Island Farm
A Unique Chapter of Wartime History
Island Farm, located on the outskirts of Bridgend, Wales, stands as a significant historical landmark from World War II. Initially constructed in 1937 as dormitories for female workers at the Royal Ordnance Factory, the site was repurposed during the war to billet American infantry preparing for the D-Day invasion. Following the landings, it became Camp 198, a prisoner of war camp housing around 1600 German soldiers. The camp gained notoriety for the largest breakout of German POWs on British soil, when 70 prisoners escaped through a secret tunnel from Hut 9 in March 1945. Despite their efforts, all escapees were recaptured within a week, but the event left a lasting legacy in British wartime history.The Story Behind Hut 9 and the Great Escape
Hut 9 is the only remaining structure from the original camp and has been preserved as a Grade II listed building. It was from this hut that the prisoners ingeniously dug a tunnel to flee the camp, employing meticulous German engineering techniques. The tunnel, still intact decades later, was concealed behind a false wall and vent inside the hut, highlighting the prisoners' resourcefulness. The escape caused a nationwide manhunt, with local authorities and military personnel mobilized to recapture the fugitives. The event is often referred to as "The Great Escape of Wales," and remains a powerful symbol of resilience and daring during wartime.Post-War Uses and Preservation Efforts
After World War II, Island Farm served as Special Camp XI, detaining high-ranking German officers awaiting war crimes trials. The camp also had varied uses over the decades, including as an army training ground and even as changing rooms for the Bridgend rugby team. Most of the camp was demolished by the late 20th century, but Hut 9 was saved thanks to preservation efforts by local authorities and volunteers. Today, the Hut 9 Island Farm Preservation Society curates the site, offering educational tours and open days that bring to life the stories of those interned there. Their work ensures the history of the camp and its dramatic escape remains accessible to the public.Immersive Visitor Experience
Visitors to Hut 9 can explore the authentic wartime environment, including displays of artifacts, POW drawings, and detailed accounts of camp life. The preservation society recreates the atmosphere of the camp, enabling visitors to step back in time and understand the conditions faced by prisoners and guards alike. The site also highlights the broader context of the Royal Ordnance Factory and the vital role Bridgend played in Britain’s wartime munitions production. The combination of historical significance and personal stories makes Hut 9 a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and cultural heritage visitors.Community and Commemoration
Island Farm is not only a historical site but also a focal point for remembrance and education. Local events commemorate the contributions of military and civilian personnel during World War II and subsequent conflicts. The preservation society’s dedication reflects the community’s respect for this chapter of their heritage, ensuring that the lessons and stories of Island Farm continue to resonate. The site’s tranquil rural setting contrasts with its dramatic past, offering a reflective space for visitors.Legacy and Continuing Relevance
Hut 9 and Island Farm stand as enduring reminders of the complexities of war, the human spirit, and the importance of preserving history. The site’s survival against demolition and vandalism is a testament to local commitment to heritage conservation. As one of the few remaining physical links to Britain’s POW history, it provides invaluable insights into wartime experiences and the broader social impact of the conflict on communities like Bridgend.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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