Royal Visit to Scotland

HMS Benbow and Fairfield shipyard on the Clyde welcomes the King, Queen and Princess Mary.

War was looming ever closer by July of 1914, and the state of Britain's Navy was a key concern: one reason why the King should choose now to visit Fairfield shipyard on the Clyde. The King, Queen and Princess Mary are received by Anglo-Scottish industrialist William Beardmore, who invites them on board the majestic HMS Benbow, an Iron Duke-class battleship who would serve in the Battle of Jutland.