Thousands of spectators are expected to gather in the Yorkshire seaside town in support of the British military - and interest is expected to rise due to the scenes witnessed by Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine - so here’s our guide to the day, including some of the secret places to best view avoiding the crowd!
Tesco-sponsored organizers have promised that those who witness the air show over South Bay in Scarborough will be presented with some of the country’s most impressive aircraft.
National Armed Forces Day in Scarborough: what to expect on this day?
The world-class Red Arrows aerobatic team will top the list, and the red Hawks will amaze the crowd with aerial gymnastics, displaying their skill, courage and grace for 20 minutes as they make their legendary mid-air flights.
Also on display will be Britain’s finest military parachute team, the RAF Falcons parachute team, which single-handedly draws huge crowds to see their amazing performances first hand, including the breathtaking elements of free fall.
Then get ready to be blown away by the sheer power of the RAF Typhoon as its EJ200 Rolls Royce twin-engine powerplants allow this fighter to be as agile as it is fast.
See how the EJ200 Eurofighter Typhoon engine is built from scratch to takeoff, HEREThen people will be treated to something very special, with a Lancaster Bomber, Spitfire and Hurricane wrapping up the event in the Battle of Britain Memorial team aisle.
National Armed Forces Day in Scarborough: when is it celebrated?
Where is the best place to watch National Armed Forces Day in Scarborough?
Undoubtedly, the busiest place will be in the southernmost Scarborough Bay, on the seashore. We expect hustle and bustle there during the day, with a carnival atmosphere for those who love to be in the thick of things.
More discerning viewers, or those who prefer less traffic, may want to head to St. Nicholas Gardens, or perhaps City Hall Gardens, where views of the exposition are superb and space is more accessible.
Locals and those who know Scarborough well will almost certainly head above Spa, to the South Cliff in and around the Esplanade, or if you want to soak in the historic splendor, a small entrance fee to the castle will give you a king and queen look.
Where is the best place for fish and chips in Scarborough?
This title is the subject of heated debate, depending on who you’re talking to. But for those new to Scarborough, we highly recommend leaving a packed lunch at home and heading to one of our best crisps.
South Bay has more world-class fish and chips than you can shake with a wooden fork, so take your pick though they’ll be busy. We highly recommend the Lifeboat Fish Bar in Eastborough - simply one of the best in the country.
If you’re more into cafes, try Cafe Columbus or Lookout on the Pier. There’s also Farrers at the spa, which never ceases to amaze, or the Harbor Bar - let us know what you think of their ice cream… but don’t tell anyone!
Where can I book accommodation that may be available on Armed Forces Day?
The messages say that the rooms, beds and caravans are filling up, so you need to hurry. If you’re struggling, some of our favorite places that are lesser known but no less impressive are:
- Fallsgrave Leisure and lodges
- Burnside Leisure Park, Burniston
Where is the best place to park on Armed Forces Day?
Parking on this day will be paid. We advise you to get there early if you need to park your car or find ways to a city where you don’t need a car.
However, if you are driving your best bet is to head to Balmoral NCP, Brunswick Center or Pavilion Square. Good luck!