Scarborough Castle stands on a high rocky promontory of rock overlooking the North Sea. As one of the great royal fortresses it was expanded and well maintained by a succession of English Kings. It has figured prominently in a number of historic events.

The original Norman stronghold was reclaimed and rebuilt built by Henry II, who added the great tower as a centrepiece. King John, Henry III and Edward I also spent a great deal of time and money on its upkeep. The 12th century great tower was badly damaged as the result of bombardment during the English Civil War, when it was twice besieged.

The castle last saw military action during the opening months of the First World War, when two German warships fired more than 500 shells on the town and castle from the bay.