On Armistice Day, join us at Land of Iron for a special screening of The Battle of the Somme, the remarkable 1916 documentary that brought scenes from the Western Front to cinema audiences across Britain.

Filmed by Geoffrey Malins and John McDowell in the lead-up to the Battle of the Somme, on 1 July 1916 and during the weeks that followed, the film became one of the most widely watched films of its time.

But how much of what audiences saw was genuine, and how much was staged?

Throughout the screening, First World War researcher Neil McGurk will provide a talking commentary, exploring the circumstances in which the film was made, the locations and events captured on camera, and the messages it was intended to convey to audiences in 1916.

Neil will also examine the film's historical accuracy, helping us understand both what the camera reveals and what it cannot tell us about the experiences of those who fought on the Western Front.

Event details

Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026 (Armistice Day)

Time: 6:30pm–8pm

Venue: Land of Iron, Mill Lane, Skinningrove, TS13 4AP

Tickets: £5.50 per person plus booking fee

Booking: Book tickets for The Battle of the Somme with Neil McGurk

Please note: This screening contains original First World War footage, including scenes of warfare and casualties that some viewers may find distressing.

About Neil McGurk

Neil's interest in the First World War began in the 1970s, inspired by stories of his grandfather's experiences during the final stages of the war and as part of the Army of Occupation.

In 2006, while participating in the 90th anniversary commemorations of the Somme, he discovered that his great-uncle was commemorated among the missing on the Thiepval Memorial.

This discovery inspired years of research into his family's military history and the wider experiences of the British Army on the Western Front, including numerous visits to France and Flanders.

Neil was also part of the historical advisory team involved in the making of Steven Spielberg's film War Horse.

Land of Iron’s programme of events and activities is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.