🚢 Guns, Boats and Brass Bands: Peasholm Park’s Naval Battle in Scarborough
Not far from the peaceful gardens of Cliff House Holiday Cottages is a rather different sort of spectacle — one of mini warships, and occasional loud explosions. It’s called Naval Warfare and it takes place at Scarborough’s Peasholm Park, just over 30 minutes from our cottages.
First staged in 1927, it’s a piece of good old-fashioned entertainment that still draws the crowds. Set on the park’s ornamental lake, the battle sees a fleet of model boats — some crewed, some remote-controlled — play out a naval engagement, complete with commentary.
It’s wonderfully eccentric. And if you haven’t seen miniature aircraft bombing a lake whilst zipping down a wire, then it’s worth adding to your North Yorkshire holiday list.
Something for all ages
Before the battle begins, you can enjoy a live music from the park’s bandstand. It’s relaxed, and there’s always a good mix of visitors and locals perched on the seating around the lake.
The battle itself only lasts about 20 minutes, but it’s packed with nostalgia and charm. Children love it. Adults are quietly impressed at the detail and tradition. No two shows are the same, and it’s one of those North Yorkshire experiences you can only have here.
Make a day of it
Peasholm Park is a great base for a day out. Before the show, you can rent a swan pedalo or rowing boat, explore the Japanese gardens, or simply wander over to North Bay Beach for a walk or an ice cream. There’s plenty of green space for a picnic, and you’ll find cafés, a putting green, and the Scarborough Open Air Theatre all nearby.
If you’re planning a summer stay with us, it’s worth checking the Naval Warfare show schedule
