During the Second World War, thousands of Polish soldiers were stationed in Scotland, forming a significant and enduring chapter in the history of the Polish-British alliance.
On 13-14 March 2026, a series of commemorative events will take place in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Paisley and Clydebank to honour the memory of Polish soldiers who served on Scottish soil and contributed to the shared struggle for freedom.
📍 13 March 2026 (Thursday) | 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
The Holyrood Room, Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh
The central event will be the official opening of the exhibition
“Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom.”
The ceremony will be held in the presence of representatives of the Republic of Poland, the Institute of National Remembrance, and Scottish public officials.
The programme will include:
– Official remarks delivered by invited guests
– A short film introducing the “Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom” project
– A formal presentation of the exhibition
– An opportunity to engage with the exhibition during a networking reception
Hosting the ceremony at the Scottish Parliament provides a rare opportunity to step inside one of Scotland’s key democratic institutions in a formal and commemorative setting.
📌 IMPORTANT – REGISTRATION REQUIRED
🔒 Attendance at the opening event at the Scottish Parliament (13 March) requires prior registration by email.
Applications must be sent to: polishsue20@gmail.com
The registration deadline is 10 March 2026.
Detailed logistical information, including access instructions and participation guidelines, will be provided in response to confirmed registrations.
Admission without prior registration and confirmation will not be possible.
📍 13 March 2026 (Friday) | 12noon. – approx. 1 p.m.
Dalbeth Cemetery, Glasgow
A commemorative ceremony will be held at Dalbeth Cemetery, where Polish soldiers and sailors are laid to rest. The programme will include the unveiling of a restored memorial dedicated to their memory, followed by a moment of reflection and tribute.
The day will also include a meeting with representatives of the Polish community in Scotland.
The event at the Dalbeth Cemetery is open to the public.
📍 14 March 2026 (Saturday) | 9:45 a.m. – approx. 2:00 p.m.
Paisley and Clydebank
Commemorative ceremonies will take place at the graves of Polish airmen and at memorial sites connected with the wartime history of Clydebank. Tributes will also be paid at locations associated with ORP Piorun and the victims of the Clydebank Blitz.
The programme will conclude with the public opening and viewing of the exhibition
“Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom” at Clydebank Town Hall.
The events scheduled for 14 March are open to the public.
About the Exhibition
“Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom” is an international project of the Institute of National Remembrance, launched in 2022 to mark the 80th anniversary of the evacuation of General Anders’ Army from the USSR.
The exhibition tells the story of Polish soldiers and civilians who, during the Second World War, travelled across continents in the fight for freedom — from the Battle of Britain to Monte Cassino and beyond.
Presented in over 50 countries, it highlights the global dimension of Poland’s wartime experience and its lasting ties with nations such as Scotland.
More on the Link :
Polish Sue 
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