The German Raid on Scarborough

Speaker: Kevin Varty
Scarborough

Kevin’s talk covers the controversial German raid on Scarborough, 16th December 1914. The Germans attacked other places along the coast which they believed were defended, and therefore legitimate targets, but at the time Scarborough was an undefended town, lacking any gun emplacements. The harbour was not suitable for warships, nor was it close to significant military targets.

Kevin will explain why the Germans mistakenly chose Scarborough, which ships were involved in the attack, and why the Germans concentrated their fire on the harmless and unfortunate Grand Hotel. Richly illustrated with many rare period photographs, we will find out which other building were hit, and who the casualties were. The attack on the east coast caused outrage in Britain. Part of this was due to the failure of the navy to intercept the German raiders, but much was made of the attack on an open town. Come along and find out about this major German assault on English soil. 

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New visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Event organiser: Milton Keynes branch
16 January 2026 19:30 to 16 January 2026 21:30
Wolverton Working Men’s Social Club, 49 - 50, Stratford Road, Wolverton, MK12 5LS
Branch contacts
Stuart Macfarlan
(Branch Chairman)
Email Stuart Macfarlan
Anne McIntyre
(Branch Secretary)
Email Anne McIntyre

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