tourist information scarborough uk

Top Things to Do in Scarborough, Scarborough District - Scarborough Must-See Attractions

Things to do in scarborough, explore popular experiences, tours in and around scarborough.

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• Peasholm Park
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• Scarborough Castle
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10 Best Things to Do in Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Written by Bryan Dearsley Jul 12, 2022

Gracing England's North Sea coast in North Yorkshire, the resort town of Scarborough offers plenty of fun things to do for those seeking a memorable seaside vacation. And you'll be in good company. Come summer, Scarborough's full-time resident population doubles from just over 100,000 to more than 200,000, all of them here for the same thing: fresh air, sun, sea, and sand.

Stretching from South Bay and following Marine Drive to North Bay, Scarborough's waterfront is a charming mix of sandy beaches and dramatic cliff faces interspersed with all the trappings of a traditional English seaside holiday resort.

From a bustling promenade lined with lovely parks and Victoria-era townhomes, numerous world-class attractions, and exciting things to do for family fun and adventure, Scarborough offers something for everyone.

To find out more about these and other tourist attractions, be sure to read through our list of the top things to do in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.

1. Explore Scarborough Harbour & Old Town

2. wander around peasholm park, 3. soak up the sun on scarborough's beaches, 4. climb up to scarborough castle, 5. scarborough fair collection & vintage transport museum, 6. visit a bronte burial ground at st. mary's church, 7. take a stroll through south cliff gardens, 8. historic scarborough spa, 9. get your culture fix at scarborough art gallery, 10. walk the loop along marine drive, a brief history of scarborough, map of things to do in scarborough, north yorkshire.

A self-guided walking tour of historic Scarborough Harbour and Old Town is a great way to kick off your North Yorkshire seaside adventure. Established in the 13th century and located between South Bay Beach and the starting point of Marine Drive, the town's picturesque harbor is fun to explore on foot, featuring level paved surfaces and plenty of great viewpoints.

Have your camera ready for some great photos of the town's colorful fishing boat fleet. Along with numerous small pleasure craft, these vessels are particularly photo-worthy if you frame the walls of Scarborough Castle, perched high above the harbor, in your shot.

Afterwards, pop into any one of the many seafood restaurants lining the harbor area to taste the fresh-caught fish these same boats caught earlier in the day. Popular choices include First Catch , Harbour View Café , and the wonderfully named Winking Willy's .

From the harbor and climbing up the hillside toward the castle, Old Town Scarborough is equally fun to explore. Encompassing an area of well-preserved old homes and structures like Scarborough Market Hall and St. Mary's church, it can be a hilly climb but is well worth it for the superb views over the town.

A self-guided tour option , the Scarborough Old Town Trail, is well worth following to be sure you don't miss anything.

Address: 18 West Pier, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.scarborough.gov.uk/scarborough-harbour/leisure

Widely acclaimed as one of England's top parks and public green spaces, Peasholm Park is another great excuse to put on the old walking shoes and head out for a stroll. Opened in 1912, this oriental-themed park covers 35 acres and is set in a pretty natural ravine to the northwest of the harbor and old town.

Fun things to do in Peasholm Park include renting a rowboat and taking a paddle on the large man-made lake or enjoying one of the fun mock naval battles that model boat enthusiasts have staged here regularly for over 80 years.

Other notable features include a tree walk experience; a putting green; and pretty gardens with Japanese-style ornaments, a pagoda, and bridge. There's also a pleasant wooded area to wander, which features trails and a waterfall.

Address: Northstead Manor Drive and Columbus Ravine, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: https://peasholmpark.com

Scarborough owes much of its popularity as Northern England's top seaside resort to its excellent beaches. South Bay Beach is usually where families tend to congregate due to its location adjacent to Scarborough Harbour.

Sandy, safe, and boasting lifeguard services that add a further level of security for parents, South Bay consists of a long, wide stretch of sand that's perfect for playing and swimming. It's also popular for its proximity to a wide promenade featuring an array of amenities, including food and beverage vendors, numerous attractions and amusement arcades, as well as those classic seaside donkey rides.

Tucked away on the north side of town and accessible by public transit or a drive or walk along Marine Parade, North Bay Beach is usually the quieter of the two Scarborough beaches. In addition to its sandy shores, great swimming and sunbathing, and stunning North Sea scenery, it's a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers.

While dogs are not permitted on these two beaches in the summer months, they are allowed to visit during the shoulder months.

Address: Foreshore Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Perched high above the Old Town, Scarborough Castle is a must-visit attraction. Built in the 1100s and boasting commanding views over both South and North Bays, much of it is now ruins due to its having endured five sieges in its history. The most recent, during the English Civil War, was when much of the damage was done.

Highlights of a visit include the opportunity to explore the old gatehouse, which has survived largely intact, as well as walking the battlements of this impressive 16-acre site while admiring the views. You'll also see a medieval chapel, as well as learn about the even earlier Iron Age and Roman settlements that once occupied this strategic spot.

Audio tours are included with admission, as is access to the interesting exhibits housed in the Master Gunner's House. You'll also have a chance to learn more about archaeological digs on the site, as well as see retrieved artifacts, including ancient tools, pottery, and weapons. A café is located on the premises, along with a gift shop.

Address: Castle Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/scarborough-castle/

Although immortalized by the classic English traditional folk song, and later by the duo Simon and Garfunkel , Scarborough Fair as a medieval festival sadly no longer exists. However, visitors can get a taste of the old fairs that were once so common across England at the fun Scarborough Fair Collection.

Established as a private collection in the 1980s, this popular attraction has expanded over the decades to include all things related to traditional country fun fairs. It's the largest collection of its kind in the UK. Highlights include a large number of mechanical organs that are often put through their paces, steam traction engines, as well as vintage vehicles.

The stars, though, are the vintage fairground rides. These include everything from 19th-century carousels, historic caterpillar rides from the 1920s, and classic waltzers. For a special treat, book one of the museum's fun afternoon tea experiences, which include dancing to the accompaniment of a historic old theater organ.

Address: Flower of May Holiday Park, Stone Pit Lane, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.scarboroughfaircollection.com

Built in 1150 and just a cannonball shot away from Scarborough Castle, the Church of St. Mary's surely must rank as one of the prettiest and most historically significant churches in Yorkshire. The church's history has long been entwined with that of the neighboring castle. Located just five minutes' walk up Castle Road, these two structures were built at the same period in history (possibly by even the same stonemasons), and each housed an opposing side in the English Civil War.

That war, in fact, saw parts of the church, which housed the Parliamentarians, and much of the castle (the Royalists) destroyed as cannonballs and musket shots poured from one to the other for six months. A visit today will reveal signs of the damage caused in the conflict and again later in WWII. Its rich history is portrayed in useful displays around the property.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the church's graveyard, part of which is situated across the road and nearer the castle. Here, you'll see the gravestone of Anne Bronte, younger sister to the writer Charlotte Bronte. Anne died in Scarborough, aged just 29, and was buried in the churchyard after losing a battle to consumption in 1849.

And if you see the sign outside saying "Refreshments Now Being Served," pop in for some delicious homemade cake and a cup of tea or coffee.

Official site: www.stmaryswithholyapostles.com

Walk south from Scarborough Harbour for a few minutes, and you'll find yourself in South Cliff Gardens. This multiuse green space covers an impressive 350-acre site, preserving its mix of coastal woodlands, wild grass, and manicured gardens for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

The cliffside park features incredible views over the North Sea and the Scarborough coastline, with a network of fun pathways that zigzag down to the waterfront. Here, a superb coastal trail, Cleveland Way , links the Holbeck Hill neighborhood with South Bay Beach. Along the way, you'll pass lovely formal gardens, such as the Italian Gardens and Rose Garden ; spot coastal wildlife; and enjoy a quiet side of Scarborough.

Other notable features of South Cliff Gardens include a Victorian-era cliff lift, a unique pedestrian bridge, a putting green, and the unique Star Map . The largest of its kind in Britain, this unique structure portrays a map of the 42 brightest circumpolar stars viewable in Scarborough.

Address: South Cliff Roundabout, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.southcliffgardens.co.uk

Located at the northern edge of South Cliff Gardens, Scarborough Spa opened in the mid 1700s and soon gained a reputation for their curative effects. The modest saloon that sprang up to serve guests soon after became the focus for most visitors, evolving over the decades into one of Scarborough's most important venues for conferences and concerts.

While the spa's waters are no longer a thing, its legacy as a place of entertainment and relaxation lives on. In addition to pop and rock concerts, it boasts the unique distinction of being home to England's last remaining professional seaside orchestra, with performances suitable for adults and kids.

Location: South Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: www.scarboroughspa.co.uk

Established in 1947, Scarborough Art Gallery is set in an attractive old 1800s townhome in a quiet crescent that's easy to get to from the town's train station and waterfront. Highlights of a visit include exploring the town's large permanent collection of artworks, as well as regular temporary exhibits from across the UK and worldwide. A great little café is located on the premises.

The municipality also runs the Rotunda , a museum dedicated to Scarborough's coastal heritage. One of England's first purpose-built museums, Rotunda opened in 1829 and features a large collection of artifacts and information relating to Scarborough's rich natural and human history.

Address: The Crescent, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Official site: https://scarboroughmuseumsandgalleries.org.uk/visit/scarborough-art-gallery/

Stretching for five miles from Scarborough Harbour around the headland to North Bay Beach, Marine Drive makes for an excellent way to spend a couple of hours while getting some exercise. This level looping trail starts at the attractive old Toll House and follows the coast northward around the Castle headland. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunity to spot marine life, including seals and dolphins, as well as noisy nesting seabirds such as Kittiwakes in the limestone cliffs above.

Part of the England Coastal Path , it was constructed in the early 1900s to serve both as a seawall and a scenic coastal path. You can also make use of Marine Drive as an alternative route to climb up to Scarborough Castle and St. Mary's Church. Though steep in places as you climb up through pretty Royal Albert Gardens , there are plenty of benches along the way that are perfect for a rest and some scenery gazing.

While Scarborough's clifftops were used by the Romans 2,000 years ago as a signal station to warn against attacks from the sea, it's believed that it was the Vikings who established the first permanent settlement here around 966 CE. The city faced a turbulent history in the following centuries and was almost completely destroyed in the English Civil War of the mid-17th century, and even shelled by the German navy in WWI.

While the scars of this sometimes violent past can still be seen in places like Scarborough Castle and neighboring St. Mary's Church, a visit today fortunately reveals an altogether calmer seaside experience.

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• Peasholm Park
• Scarborough Beach
• Scarborough Castle
• The Scarborough Fair Collection
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• Cayton Bay Beach
• South Cliff Italian Gardens
• Scarborough to Whitby Rail Trail
• Central Tramway Company
• Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers
• Playdale Farm Park

Visit Scarborough & the Yorkshire Coast

Yorkshire's traditional seaside resort and conference centre.

• Yorkshire Coast
• More about Whitby

Since the 17th century Scarborough has been catering for family visitors to the Yorkshire Coast.

Its sandy North Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag award for high environmental standards and safety facilities, whilst the golden South Beach attracts with its backdrop of shops and entertainments.

Between the town's two beaches is the Scarborough fishing harbour, bustling with boating activity. Above it on the headland is Scarborough Castle, now maintained by English Heritage.

During Victorian times Scarborough became a favoured resort, leading to the creation of superb parks and gardens, the Esplanade and the Spa complex. The cliff lift was built for easy access from beach to town, and the shopping centre developed to meet the demand.

Scarborough has all the attractions of the traditional English seaside - donkey rides, Punch and Judy shows, amusements, the Sea Life Marine Sanctuary, and evening theatre events with leading entertainers and comedies at Scarborough Spa, home of the unique Spa Orchestra. The famous Stephen Joseph Theatre is noted for its Alan Ayckbourn premieres.

In the Scarborough area are many attractions - visit the Staintondale Shire Horse Farm or the villages, museums, and heritage centres along the Yorkshire Coast and inland in the North York Moors.

For those seeking an active holiday there is sailing, surfing, river or sea fishing, even llama trekking.

Various Festivals are held throughout the year, including the Scarborough Cricket Festival and the national Student Drama Festival. Motor cycle racing is held at Oliver's Mount.

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The 13 best things to do in Scarborough

The best things to do in Scarborough range from waterparks to quirky arcades and its own fairground museum

Welcome to Britain's oldest seaside resort: the best things to do in Scarborough are a jump in the past (with a foot grounded into the present). Folks have been holidaying in this town on the East Yorkshire coast since the 1700s, when the bourgeois flocked to bathe in its healing spa waters. Reminders of the place’s opulent heyday can be seen in its grand crescents, majestic architecture, pretty parks and gorgeous concert spaces, but now you’ll find waterparks, kitsch arcades and wonderfully clinquant trappings peppered in-between. In short, it’s the perfect modern seaside spot where donkey rides, ice cream sundaes and funiculars meet quirky, independent markets, craft beer joints and cutting-edge theatre. You can have your Algarve; I’ll see you by the penny arcades on South Bay with a ‘99.

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Best things to do in Scarborough

1.  The Scarborough Fair Collection

What is it? You won’t find any parsley and sage at this working steam museum, or rosemary and thyme for that matter. Instead, it houses an eye-poppingly colourful collection of kitsch vintage seaside fairground rides, steam engines, vintage cars and mechanical ballroom organs.

Why go? For a great British seaside nostalgia trip. Take a whirl on the traditional merry-go-round that looks ripped from a scene in 'Mary Poppins', ride the dodgems, try your luck in the penny arcade and ogle at the old-school cars and buses, some of which date back to the 1920s. Don’t miss out on afternoon tea in the ballroom to the sounds of a Wurlitzer organ for the cherry on top of this wonderfully twee cake.

2.  Scarborough Castle

What is it? Get up close to 3000 years of Yorkshire history, featuring royals, Romans, plenty of battles and a rare Bronze Age sword. Long before Scarborough became famous as a seasideing resort, it was home to one of the country’s most significant royal fortresses, whose medieval ruins now loom down from the coastal headland.

Why go? As well as the remains of a 12th century fortification developed by Henry II and King John, you’ll find Iron Age settlements, a Roman signal station, a medieval chapel and stunning views of the town’s north and south bays on this cliff top fortress. Look in the Master Gunner’s House, which is full of fascinating prehistoric artifacts.

3.  Scarborough Beach

What is it? Scarborough doesn’t boast just one beautiful stretch of sand. This town has two to lie out on. The North and South Bay are separated by the craggy castle ruins. Whether you choose to spend a day on the buzzy South sands or chill out on the quieter North coast, this is the perfect spot to feel the sea breeze through your locks.

Why go? You’ll find all the amusements you could ask of a former Victorian pleasure beach on the South Bay. Take a donkey ride down the sands, hit up the amusement arcades, stroll down the promenade and watch the pleasure boats coming in and out of the harbour. Head to the wilder, rockier North Bay to beat the crowds, explore rock pools and take some snaps of the colourful beach huts. Arrive on the stands in style in the Cliff Lift, the oldest funicular railway in the country.

4.  Rotunda Museum

What is it? It may be small, but over two floors this beautiful museum (one of the first to be purpose-built in the world in 1829) packs in over 65 million years of history and a stunning circular gallery with a beautiful domed-roof dotted with stained glass.

Why go? This gorgeous space is packed full of amazing natural history. Check out the Speeton Plesiosaur skeleton - a marine reptile from the lower Cretaceous period, dinosaur footprints found on East Yorkshire’s dino coast and the gnarly skeleton of the bronze-age Gristhorpe man.

5.  Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults

What is it? An airy continental-style market hall full of traditional stalls, independent eateries and quirky shops selling everything from art supplies and antiques to prints and vintage clothing. After a £2.3 million development this fabulous spot has been given a slick overhaul with a new mezzanine-level food court. Venture down into the Vaults, where you’ll find a rabbit-warren of eclectic indie shops and bric-a-brac stalls.

Why go? Pick up weird and wonderful curios in the Vault’s Authentique antique shop, get your mitts on beautiful handmade glassware in Gekoglass, stock up on jars of locally-sourced raw honey at The Honeycomb Shop, stop for a flat white at the Scarborough Coffee Company and keep an eye on their programme of events and live music. Phew!

6.  St Mary’s Church and Anne Bronte’s Grave

What is it? This picturesque church has seen some sights. Originally built in the 12th century just below Scarborough Castle, it was nearly destroyed during a siege in the English Civil War, but thankfully was rebuilt in the 1600s.

Why go? There’s a steep climb to the church’s hilly spot overlooking the old town, but it’s worth it for a snoop around the picturesque interior filled with beautiful stained glass. Get an eyeful of some fantastic sea views from the church yard and see if you can find the grave of Anne Bronte, the youngest of the famous literary clan. The Bronte sisters are practically royalty around these parts, so don’t miss the chance to pay your respects to the only one of the three sisters buried outside of their hometown of Howarth.

7.  Scarborough Spa

What is it? Originally built around the source of Scarborough’s spa waters, this beachside concert space is a stunning Victorian gem. Its elegant outdoor promenade, designed by the same architect as Chatsworth House, look out over the beach and host all kinds of concerts, including shows by The Spa Orchestra.

Why go? Seeing The Spa Orchestra play in this magical alfresco space is real treat. At 106 years old, they are the last surviving professional seaside orchestra. Their repertoire of classical ditties, Viennese waltzes, operettas, and popular Victorian songs, is totally unique as well as being set to the lulling accompaniment of breaking waves.

8.  Scarborough Brewery

What is it? Nestled in an industrial estate on the outskirts of town, this small, family-owned brewery may be off the beaten track but is well worth seeking out when they open their doors for special events among the kegs. Since opening in 2009, they’ve expanded from a one barrel brew pub to a 10 barrel plant, creating lip-smacking pale and golden ales, IPAs and rich porters.

Why go? Piss ups in breweries don’t get much better than this. Head to one of the regular beer festivals to guzzle down tasty pints, including their Citrusy golden ale Sealord and refreshingly fruity pale session beer Trident, while listening to live music on the brewery floor. Look out for brewery tours to really get to know the place.

9.  Scarborough Art Gallery

What is it? You can’t miss this beautiful Grade-II listed Italiante villa nestled on The Crescent - one of Scarborough’s grandest streets. As well as housing the town’s permanent collection of fine art, the stunning gallery also hosts regular temporary exhibitions championing everyone from local painters to internally-acclaimed artists.  

Why go? Check out Leeds artist John Atkinson Grimshaw’s beautiful seascapes, works by Frederic Lord Leighton and Frank Brangwyn and the gallery’s brilliant contemporary print works from the Printmakers Council’s permanent archive. Look out for super-informative temporary exhibitions, which have ranged from explorations of Scarborough’s Victorian pleasure beach past to displays on women in WWII.

10.  Stephen Joseph Theatre

What is it? One of the nation’s best theatres housed in a glorious, sweeping Art-Deco former Odeon cinema building. This theatre-in-the-round, founded by Stephen Joseph in 1957 (albeit in a different building), has one mighty heritage and is a champion for new work.

Why go? This intimate space will forever be tied to Alan Ayckbourn, one of Britain’s most-loved playwrights who began working for Joseph in 1957  and was artistic director here from 1972 to 2009. Bask in the glory of this lovely little place’s history and revel in its cutting-edge programme filled with fresh writing and steeped in local pride.

11.  Harbour Bar

What is it? This family run ice cream parlour has been making and selling its own ice cream since 1945, and things have changed very little since then. Inside you’ll find a wonderfully retro interior with mustard-yellow formica tables and cherry-red leather stools, cone-shaped neon signs and ‘50s Horlicks adverts.

Why go? Owner Giulian Alonzi, who was born and raised in the flat above the shop, churns 500 litres of ice cream an hour, and its some of the tastiest in Yorkshire. Tuck into a rippling, pastel-coloured ‘99 and a huge, cream-filled, wafer-topped Knickerbocker Glory. Orin winter, opt for a warming hot chocolate and one of their mean bacon sarnies.

12.  Peasholm Park

What is it? Recently restored to its original Edwardian splendour, this pretty park was modelled on the Willow Pattern plate design with a handsome pegoda, ornate bridge and Chinese-style island bandstand.

Why go? Full of streams and gurgling waterfalls, this is a charming oasis away from the bustle of the seaside. Glide along the calm lakes on dragon-shaped pedalos, take a ride on the miniature railway and look out for the famous miniature naval sea battles acted out in the lake in over the summer.

13.  Alpamare Scarborough

What is it? Scarborough’s thermal waters have been given an adrenaline-inducing update at this state-of-the-art, Alpine-themed waterpark. It packs in a wave pool, which ripples with metre-high swells, an infinity pool with massage jets and four long, curly water slides.

Why go? Prices are on the dearer side, but worth it for the hours of fun you can pack in here. Whizz down the Black Hole, the longest waterslides in the UK plunging thrill-seekers down an 11m drop at 30mph, take a soak in the heated outdoor pool with gorgeous views stretching across the beach and visit the Alpine-style wellness centre for saunas, steam baths and treatments.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Scarborough (Yorkshire, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Scarborough (Yorkshire, England)

England’s first seaside resort first pulled in holidaymakers in the 17th century after a curative spring was discovered in the cliffs in the south of the town.

Up to that time Scarborough had been a fishing port in the shadow of fearsome castle built by Henry II, and hosted the Scarborough Fair, a six-week market that attracted merchants from across Europe.

The ruined castle is still an authoritative presence atop its promontory between the North and South Bays.

When the railway arrived in the middle of the 19th century it brought mass tourism to Scarborough, and the regal spa buildings, the cliff funiculars and the gigantic Grand Hotel soon followed.

Now, even though English seaside resorts have suffered since the 1970s, Scarborough is a touch of class, home to the last remaining seaside orchestra in the UK, and the acclaimed Stephen Joseph Theatre.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Scarborough :

1. Scarborough Castle

Occupying the 91-metre promontory between the north and south bays are the remnants of Scarborough’s Medieval castle.

This indomitable roost over the North Sea was a hill fort in the Bronze Age, and in the fourth century was used as a signal station by the Romans.

You can now locate the ruins of an Anglo-Saxon chapel, built around 1000 on the site of the signal station.

The stone curtain wall ringing the promontory was raised in the 12th and 13th centuries, and is in great condition, with a mighty barbican granting access to the baileys.

To reach these you have to cross a stone bridge from the 1330s, where the decayed remnants of the 26-metre keep hove into view.

This was wrecked during a mighty bombardment in 1645 during the English Civil War.

In the west wall you can identify the remains of the hearth that heated the great hall.

2. Peasholm Park

Just behind the North Bay is the fanciful Peasholm Park, designed in an Oriental style in 1912. At that time the park was Scarborough’s venue of choice for extravagant galas and exhibitions, but its glory faded as the century wore on.

The park closed in 1999 after its pagoda was damaged by arson, but reopened in the 2000s and is now a treasured part of the resort.

One of many old-time delights is the Battle of Peasholm, a naval re-enactment that has taken place three times a week each summer on the ornamental lake for nearly 90 years.

There are also brass band concerts and lantern displays in the park, as well as a putting green, artificial waterfalls, a Japanese Garden, and the Peasholm Glen Tree Trail with exotic tree species.

3. St Mary’s Church

High on the isthmus between the old town and castle, St Mary’s is a Grade I listed church, first erected in the 12th century.

That building was mostly lost in Civil War in the 17th century, and was rebuilt at the end of the 1600s.

Out in the sprawling graveyard you can find the ruins of the old west towers, which give a sense of how much larger the Medieval church used to be.

The main reason people stop by is to visit the grave of Anne Brontë, best known for the Tenant of Wildfell Hall.

She passed away at 29 in 1849, and her gravestone, now heavily weathered, was commissioned by her sister Charlotte.

In 2011 this was accompanied by a new plinth, placed in front.

4. South Bay Beach

On a smooth arc, the South Bay Beach is the one that fills up fastest in summer.

The castle promontory to the north and the line of cliffs to the south help to buffer the worst of the North Sea currents.

The beach is also oriented to the south so is bathed in sunshine on clear summer days.

There’s enough golden sand to sunbathe on at high tide, and when the tide goes out you can take younger members of the clan out for rockpooling to hunt for crabs and starfish.

And being a classic English seaside beach, there are donkey rides on the shore, as well as amusements, ice cream parlours and fish & chip shops along Foreshore road behind.

5. The Spa, Scarborough

At the base of the cliffs on South Bay, the Spa is a 19th-century complex of performance venues erected at the site of Scarborough’s natural springs.

The current Grand Hall opened in 1880 after the previous spa saloon burnt down in 1876. The complex is nearly half a mile in length and you can reach it via the magnificent Spa Bridge, dating to 1827, and the South Cliff Lift from 1873. The Grand Hall seats 2,000 and is the home of the Scarborough Spa Orchestra and hosts the annual Jazz Festival in September.

The smaller Victorian Theatre has a bust programme of shows in summer, as well as pantomimes at Christmas.

Outside, on the promenade is the Sun Court, a splendid Neoclassical colonnade with a stage where the Spa Orchestra and other bands put on outdoor shows in summer.

6. North Bay Railway

At Peasholm Park you can take youngsters on a round trip to Scalby Mills on the other side of the North Bay via a miniature railway.

The line opened in 1931, and nearly all of its rolling stock dates from the first two years of service.

The one exception is a brand new steam engine built purposely for the railway and commissioned in 2016. The other locomotives are all diesel powered.

There are three stops on the line, for a total return journey time of about half an hour, and you can get off at Scalby Mills to visit the Sea Life Centre.

7. North Bay Beach

Like the South Bay Beach, the North Bay is a perennial Blue Flag winner.

This less frequented beach is a bit more open to the North Sea and has rolling waves that attract surfers.

But even if the water is a bit more boisterous, the beach is safe for paddling and there’s an RNLI lifeguard on patrol throughout the summer.

The north end of the beach has a rocky reef and outcrops that are exposed for little ones to go rockpooling when the tide goes out.

If you’d like a permanent base next to the beach for the day, you could always rent one of the colourful chalets along the promenade.

8. Central Tramway

Shuttling up and down the cliff by the humungous neo-Baroque Grand Hotel is the pick of Scarborough’s five funicular railways.

This opened in 1881 and has been run by the same company ever since.

The 71-metre track has a 50% gradient, linking Marine Parade by the town centre with Foreshore Road on the beachfront.

The tramway is open from February to October and has a charming, Victorian-style upper station with a tea room and outdoor seating in its front yard.

Coming up for 140 years later, the line remains the handiest way to get down to the South Bay from the centre of the resort.

9. Stephen Joseph Theatre

This highly-regarded theatre is a cultural touchstone for North Yorkshire.

For more than 35 years up to 2009 the theatre’s artistic director was playwright Sir Alan Ayckboure, and in that time nearly all of his plays premiered at this venue.

On the menu will be high-quality productions at the 404-seatrer theatre in the round, and 165-seat end-on stage auditorium.

You can also catch all sorts of music, from jazz to folk and classical soloists and small ensembles.

The smaller auditorium also has regular cinema screenings for black and white movies, international arthouse films and current blockbusters.

10. South Cliff Italian Gardens

Just south of the spa, the South Cliff Italian Gardens were plotted at the turn of the 20th century and sit on a terrace that bends with the contours of the cliff.

In the Italian Renaissance style, the gardens have geometric flowerbeds, a lily pond topped with a statue of Mercury and two very ceremonious stairways climbing to shelters beneath pergolas dating to 1914. It’s all part of a long tapestry of open spaces, including a rose garden and a cliff-top path with wonderful vistas back to the castle, all equipped with stairways and the Cliff Lifts down to the beach.

11. Scarborough Fair Collection

A short way down the coast in Lebberston is a museum with a set of vintage fairground organs and “showman’s engines”, road-going steam locomotives.

These engines were a fixture of English seaside resorts in the first half of the 20th century, and the showpiece is the Iron Maiden, which was the star of its own self-titled movie in 1962. The machine was built in 1920, originally to haul stone at the Isle of Portland in Dorset, before becoming a showman’s engine.

Also in the display are a 97-key Gavioli Concert organ, as well as a 101-key Hooghuys organ.

There’s a vintage “gallopers” ride from 1893, a caterpillar ride from 1928, as well as an array of miniature vehicles, model railways and vintage cars.

12. Rotunda Museum

When this attraction was built in 1829 it was one of the UK’s first buildings constructed expressly as a museum.

The driving force behind the Rotunda Museum was William Smith, remembered as the “Father of English Geology”. The collection has more than 5,500 fossils and 3,000 minerals, many of which are “type specimens”, or the first of their kind to be recorded and described.

For amateur geologists and fossil hunters the museum is the stuff of dreams, with mammoth teeth from the Ice Age, Jurassic fossil plants, Cretaceous fossils and numerous Carboniferous plants.

There are also pieces of bone, antler and flint from the enigmatic Stone Age site at Star Carr, and the skeleton and sarcophagus of the Grishthorpe Man, buried in the Bronze Age in a scooped-out oak tree.

13. Scarborough Harbour

One of the many great things about Scarborough is that the harbour under the castle promontory is a working port with a fishing fleet.

You can amble along Sandside, as well as the Old Pier to watch the traffic, grab a crab or lobster sandwich and get a closer look at the lighthouse.

This building dates from 1806, but had to be reconstructed after the notorious bombardment at the start of the First World War, which also damaged the castle.

Sandside has a broad pavement, filled with outdoor seating for its long row of cafes, ice cream parlours, restaurants and bars.

And if you’re ready for a voyage on the North Sea, the harbour has fishing companies organising trips for up to ten hours.

14. South Cliff Clock Tower

A landmark for Scarborough at the entrance to the South Cliff Gardens, this clock tower was built on a scenic overlook to commemorate George V’s coronation in 1911. The tower was inspired by Christopher Wren’s English Baroque monuments, and has a lantern and weather vane over four clock faces set in pediments and framed by Ionic columns.

This clock had to be wound manually until the 1960s.

It was electrified not long after a winder’s ladder slipped, trapping him in the tower overnight.

The Holbeck Putting Green is just below the tower, and tests your short game as you take in the fabulous view of the bay.

15. Oliver’s Mount

Further inland, this area of high ground has a supreme view of southern Scarborough.

The 152-metre hill is named after Oliver Cromwell, as the supposed place where the Parliamentarian forces set up their artillery in the English Civil War.

Later, Anne Brontë wrote about Oliver’s Mount in her 1840 poem, the Bluebell.

There’s an eye-catching stone obelisk to Scarborough’s victims in the two world wars, while the hill’s roads form England’s only road racing circuit.

Oliver’s Mount staged British Formula III races in the 50s, but is better known for bike racing.

On the early May bank holiday weekend the Scarborough Festival of Speed takes place here, putting on speed hills climbs, bike and car displays and setting up trade stands.

15 Best Things to Do in Scarborough (Yorkshire, England):

• Scarborough Castle
• Peasholm Park
• St Mary's Church
• South Bay Beach
• The Spa, Scarborough
• North Bay Railway
• North Bay Beach
• Central Tramway
• Stephen Joseph Theatre
• South Cliff Italian Gardens
• Scarborough Fair Collection
• Rotunda Museum
• Scarborough Harbour
• South Cliff Clock Tower
• Oliver's Mount

Plan your visit...

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Car Park Map...

Scarborough

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By road
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around

Scarborough is a large resort on the North Yorkshire coast in the north of England; it had a population of almost 62,000 in 2011. It has two broad, sandy bays divided by a headland, with confident Victorian hotels ranged above.

Understand [ edit ]

A castle was established on the headland in the Norman era, and the town first grew up along the more sheltered South Bay. There was fishing and sea trade, but it wasn't much of a harbour, and Scarborough mostly owes its existence to the strange course of the River Derwent. This arises nearby, but instead of flowing to the coast it turns inland, carving a broad valley between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Wolds. So this was a natural transport route: for traders heading to Scarborough Fair, for marauding armies including the Normans, Scots and Royalists alternating with Parliamentarians, and above all for holiday-makers. In 1626 one of the springs that bubbled out of the cliffs, staining the rocks with its mineral content, was claimed to have medicinal properties. People flocked for spa cures, from the springs and from sea-bathing. The railway arrived in 1845 and there was a spate of building grand hotels, expanding into North Bay and creating the townscape you see today. Leisure fashions have evolved but Scarborough remains a popular resort because of its ease of access from the industrial cities.

• Visitor information from Visit Scarborough

Get in [ edit ]

By road [ edit ]

All routes to Scarborough get very congested on summer weekends. The main approach is along A64, which forks off A1(M) to pass York and Malton. Expect to hit tailbacks just east of York where the dual carriageway narrows to single.

Other routes are to leave A64 at York for A166 via Stamford Bridge and Bridlington; along A170 (for light vehicles only) from Thirsk and Pickering; from eastern England either via M18 then A614 or via Humber Bridge, Hull and A165; and from the north use A19 past Middlesbrough onto A171 then along the coast through Whitby.

Tune in to This is the Coast on DAB radio for travel reports to confirm that what you are stuck in is indeed a traffic jam.

Parking in town centre is ample much of the year but fills up quickly in summer. For day trips use the Park and Rides , both south side: on A64 Seamer Road and on A165 Filey Road.

By train [ edit ]

TransPennine Express trains run hourly from Liverpool Lime Street via Manchester Victoria, Leeds , York and Malton to Scarborough. From London and the south, change at York. Reservations are needed for bicycles.

Northern Rail trains run every two hours from Hull via Beverley , Bridlington , Bempton (for Flamborough Head) and Filey to Scarborough.

On summer weekends these trains are packed with families heading to the seaside.

54.2798 -0.4055 1 Scarborough station is next to the main bus stand in West Square. It has a staffed ticket office and machines, a waiting room and toilets. Lots of cafes nearby. There is step-free access to all platforms.

By bus [ edit ]

The National Express direct from London Victoria has been axed: travel to Leeds and take the Coastliner, 10 hours in all.

The Yorkshire Coastliner 843 runs hourly from Leeds via Tadcaster, York and Malton to Scarborough.

East Yorkshire Bus 121 runs every two hours from Hull via Beverley and Driffield to Bridlington. Change there for the hourly 12 / 13 via Filey to Scarborough.

East Yorkshire Bus 128 runs across the North York Moors from Helmsley via Pickering , Thornton-le-Dale, Brompton and Seamer to Scarborough. It runs hourly M-F, every two hours Sa, no Sunday service.

Arriva Bus X93 runs hourly from Middlesbrough via Guisborough and Whitby to Scarborough.

Get around [ edit ]

The town is a few miles long, but walk wherever possible.

The Tramway is a funicular, plying between St Nicholas St and the South Bay seafront, all of 248 feet / 76 m. Opened in 1881, it runs daily 10AM-5PM, adult fare £1.20 up and £1 down.

Open-top buses ply along the seafront between The Spa in South Bay and The Sands in North Bay. They run Apr-Oct daily every 15 min to 6:30PM or later. An adult day ticket is £5, child and concs £3.

The bus south to Filey gets you to Cayton Bay, and the bus north to Whitby gets you to Robin Hood's Bay, see Get in. But most of their route lies a mile or two inland, with limited access to the clifftop footpath.

Taxi firms ainclude Beeline (+44 1723 366666), Station Taxis (+44 1723 366366), Betty's (+44 1723 500190) and Boro Cars (+44 1723 361111).

See [ edit ]

• 54.283 -0.39 2 The Harbour is at the north end of South Bay, sheltered by the castle headland from nor'easterly weather. There's a small lighthouse, really just a harbour light, and Luna Park funfair at the east pier end.
• 54.275 -0.402 3 St Martin-on-the-Hill , completed in 1863, is the attractive High Anglican church on Albion Road. Panels around the pulpit are by the Pre-Raphaelites.
• 54.29 -0.411 4 Peasholm Park is in a glen opening onto North Bay; always open, free, dogs on leads welcome. It has Japanese-themed gardens, a pagoda and a boating lake. A mock naval battle is staged on the lake June Sa, July Th Sa, Aug M Th Sa; adult £4.50, child £2.50.
• The Italian Gardens and Rose Garden by the Esplanade overlook South Bay. Some 300 yards south, the grassy bank was the site of the Holbeck Hall Hotel. Many places along this eroded coast have fallen into the sea but this hotel spectacularly did so live on TV news in 1993. The cause was not coastal erosion, but heavy rain liquidising the subsoil, which landslipped. The spot is marked by an information board plus a poignant caption on Google Map: "add a missing place".
• 54.279 -0.401 5 Scarborough Art Gallery is in an Italianate villa on The Crescent. Rotating art exhibits, there isn't a permanent collection. It's open Tu-Su 10AM-5PM, adult £3 includes The Rotunda.
• The Rotunda 100 yards east on Vernon Road was built in 1829 to display the geology collection of William Smith, who realised one could correlate geological strata by the fossils they contain. open Tu-Su 10AM-5PM, adult £3 includes the Art Gallery.
• 54.299 -0.443 7 Scalby Beck or The Sea Cut is a partly artificial channel to manage the flow of the River Derwent. This arises in the North York Moors close to the North Sea, but its direct course was blocked by Ice Age mud deposits, so for the last 11,000 years or so it's flowed inland — the River Niger of Yorkshire, with Malton as its Timbuktu. The Derwent has 70 miles (110 km) to flow to reach the tidal Humber with only 135 ft (41 m) to fall, so it's flood-prone. A channel was completed in 1804 to divert water from its upper reaches into the natural Scalby Beck. There are paths along its length.
• 54.27 -0.49 8 Forge Valley Woods are in the Derwent Valley below the Sea Cut intake. Some of the woodland is 6000 years old. The woods were formerly used for charcoal to fire forges, hence the name, but are now protected as a National Nature Reserve.
• Robin Hood's Bay: see Whitby for this picturesque harbour, and for the oddity of Ravenscar, a Victorian attempt to create a beach resort out of a disused alum factory that lacked a beach.

Do [ edit ]

• Beaches: South Bay has amusement arcades, a funfair, the harbour, the Spa complex, donkey rides, and all the trappings of a traditional English seaside resort. North Bay, the other side of the castle headland, is quieter and less developed. Both are sandy, and almost completely covered at high tide.
• Scarborough Spa is a music and events venue on South Shore.
• 54.302 -0.41 1 Sea Life Centre , Scalby Mills Rd YO12 6RP , ☏ +44 1723 373414 . Daily 10AM-5PM . Various aquarium habitats, with talks and interaction pools. Adult £15.20, child £13.20 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Open Air Theatre on North Bay, with a capacity of 8000, puts on big-name concerts in summer; bring your waterproofs.
• North Bay Railway [dead link] is a 20 inch gauge railway: trains chunter for most of a mile between Peasholm Park and the Sea Life Centre at Scalby Mills. Four locomotives are "outline" or mock-steam, but with diesel-hydraulic power units. In 2016 a true steam locomotive came into service, the 0-4-0 Georgina . Trains run Easter-Oct every 20-30 min, adult day pass £4.20, child £3.20.
• 54.296 -0.414 2 Alpamare Waterpark , 28 Burniston Rd YO12 6PH , ☏ +44 1723 861431 . M-Sa 10AM-10PM, Su 10AM-9PM . Waterpark with heated pool and tube-rides, also a spa. Adult £21, child £17 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.226 -0.485 3 North Yorkshire Water Park , Wykeham Lakes, Long Causeway Rd YO13 9QU ( 6 miles west of town off A170 ), ☏ +44 1723 865052 . Apr-Oct: daily 8AM-6PM . Lagoon with floating slides, kayaking, paddle-boarding and so on. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Golf: North Cliff GC is near the Sea Life Centre, and South Cliff GC is on Oliver's Mount.
• 54.244 -0.362 4 Cayton Bay five miles south of town has a broad sandy beach. It's the main spot for surfing, wind-surfing and the like.
• Walk: The Cleveland Way follows a 110-mile loop (175-km) from Helmsley round the rim of the North York Moors through Osmotherley, Guisborough , Saltburn-by-the-Sea , Whitby , Scarborough and Filey . The sections near Scarborough all follow the coast and are obvious: north along the cliffs to Scalby, Ravenscar and Robin Hood's Bay, or south along the beach (covered at high tide) then cliffs via Cayton Bay to Filey Brigg and town.
• The Cinder Track is the old railway between Scarborough and Whitby. It's suitable for walking, cycling and horse-riding. It winds along the contours a mile or two inland so it has limited sea views but is level going.
• Cricket: the cricket ground is on North Marine Road near Peasholm Park. Scarborough CC play in the Yorkshire Premier League North, and Yorkshire CCC occasionally play here.
• Football: Scarborough Athletic play away down in the lower tiers of English soccer. Their home ground is Flamingoland Stadium (capacity 2833) on Ashburn Rd a mile south of the railway station.
• Goldwing Light Parade is an evening parade of garishly-lit Goldwing motorbikes, fundraising for charity. The last is on Saturday 9 September 2023.
• Scarborough Pride parade was last held on Saturday 30 Sep 2023.

Buy [ edit ]

• Scarborough Rock, anywhere along the prom.
• Tesco next to the railway station is open M-Sa 6AM-midnight, Su 10AM-4PM.
• The main retail strip is south edge of town, along Seamer Rd A64, with a Lidl supermarket.
• Market Hall near West Pier is trading M-Sa 8AM-5PM.

Eat [ edit ]

• Harbour Bar , 1 Sandside YO11 1PE ( at West Pier ). Daily 8:30AM-5PM . A popular ice-cream parlour and coffee shop in 1950s retro style. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Lookout on the Pier - on West Pier to be specific - serves seafood daily 7:30AM-4:30PM.
• Roasters , 8 Aberdeen Walk YO11 1XP . M-Sa 8AM-7PM, Su 9AM-4PM . Pleasant cafe near NCP Balmoral car park. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Farrer's serves hearty trad fare within the Spa, open F-W 9AM-10:30PM, Th 9AM-6PM.
• Embers earns great reviews. It's at 138 Victoria Rd a block back from the railway station, open W-F 5-9PM, Sa noon-3AM.
• Mother Hubbards , 43 Westborough YO11 1UN , ☏ +44 1723 376109 . M-Sa 11:30AM-6PM . Roomy, slick fish and chips restaurant, licensed, non-fish alternatives available. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Wackers , 1 Vernon Rd YO11 2NH . M-Sa 9AM-6PM, Su 11AM-5PM . Long-established place, reliably good fish and chips. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Cafe Fish , 19 York Place YO11 2NP , ☏ +44 1723 500301 . Daily 5:30-10PM . Small seafood restaurant, licensed, not your average chipper. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Smallfry , 52 North Street YO11 1DE ( behind Post Office ). Tu-F 11:30AM-2PM, 4:15-7:15PM, Sa 11:30AM-2PM . Good fish & chips, small eat-in or takeaway. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Lanterna , 33 Queen Street YO11 1HQ , ☏ +44 1723 363616 . Tu-Sa 7-9:30PM . Long-established trattoria, great cuisine, a cut above your standard pizzeria. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Florios Pizzeria , 35 Aberdeen Walk YO11 1BD , ☏ +44 1723 351124 . W-M 5-9PM . Popular spot for pizza and pasta. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Scarborough Tandoori , 50 St Thomas Street YO11 1DR , ☏ +44 1723 352393 . Daily 5PM-midnight . Extensive menu, good food. ( updated Jul 2020 )

Drink [ edit ]

Scarborough is reckoned to have the most pubs per capita in Britain, 170 across the district and dozens in town centre. This competition keeps prices down.

• Indigo Alley , 4 North Marine Rd YO12 7PD . Quirky CAMRA-recommended pub, has live music. Serves fish & chips W-Su 4-8PM. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• The Rooftop overlooking the harbour is open daily 10:30AM-10PM.
• The Cask Inn , Cambridge Terr YO11 2LQ ( south end of Valley Bridge ). Daily noon-11:30PM . Dog-friendly pub, does excellent bar meals. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Tap & Spile , 94 Falsgrave Rd YO12 5AZ . M-F 4PM-midnight, Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-11PM . Friendly pub with live music. Dogs welcome in the Tap room. Meals Sunday lunchtime only. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• The Lord Rosebery is a JD Wetherspoon opposite the railway station, open Su-Th 8AM-midnight, F Sa 8AM-2AM.
• Yorkshire Spirit Malt Whisky is distilled at nearby Hunmanby, and first went on sale in 2019. See Filey for distillery tours.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are more hotels and small B&Bs than you could shake a stick at. Supply usually well exceeds demand.

• 54.306 -0.427 1 Scarborough Camping & Caravan Site , Field Lane, Burniston Rd YO13 0DA ( on A165 ), ☏ +44 1723 366212 . The site is open Apr-Oct. Facilities such as cafe, laundry and play area are closed in 2020 season. Caravan or 2-person tent £40 per night . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.302 -0.424 2 Scarborough Youth Hostel , Burniston Road YO13 0DA ( on A165 ), ☏ +44 1723 361176 . Built in 17th century as a watermill on Scalby Beck, the hostel has 46 beds in 4- and 6-bedded dorms. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.289 -0.404 3 The Paragon , 123 Queen's Parade YO12 7HY , ☏ +44 1723 372676 . Friendly well-run B&B above North Bay. Free parking. B&B double £75 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Bike & Boot Inn , Cliff Bridge Terrace YO11 2HA ( by Rotunda ), ☏ +44 1723 655555 . Dog-friendly budget hotel by South Shore. B&B double £75 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Argo Guest House , 134 North Marine Rd YO12 7HZ ( opposite Paragon ), ☏ +44 1723 375745 . Simple friendly B&B, good value for money. B&B double £65 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.274 -0.399 4 Red Lea Hotel , Prince of Wales Terrace YO11 2AJ , ☏ +44 1723 362431 . Clean, welcoming hotel above South Bay. They also have self-catering apartments. Red Lea is within the same building as the dowdy Redcliffe Hotel, but separately run. B&B double £90 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.290411 -0.414896 5 Park Manor Hotel , Northstead Manor Drive YO12 6BB , ☏ +44 1723 372090 , [email protected] . Decent mid-range hotel by Peasholm Park. B&B double £130 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Premier Inn are a reliable well-run chain. They have two places near town centre: South Bay on Falconers Rd YO11 2EN, and North Bay at 26 Burnieston Road YO12 6PH. Rates in 2020 were around £80 per double room plus £10 pp for breakfast.

• 54.280235 -0.399199 6 Travelodge , St Nicholas Cliff YO11 2EU , ☏ +44 871 984 6430 . Budget chain hotel in town centre on South Bay. Some rooms and amenities tired or needing a clean, but most visitors have a comfy state. No hotel parking, unload and use the NCP. B&B double £120 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• Phoenix Court , 8-9 Rutland Terrace YO12 7JB ( next to St Mary's church ), ☏ +44 1723 501150 . Comfy welcoming B&B looking over North Bay. B&B double £60 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.282 -0.399 9 Royal Hotel , St Nicholas St YO11 2HE , ☏ +44 871 221 0208 . It's seen better days. Run by Britannia, this is a budget offering, with indifferent service, decor and catering. B&B double £50 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.28 -0.41 10 The Windmill , Mill St YO11 1SZ , ☏ +44 1723 372735 . Delightful little B&B in an 18th-century windmill on the hill above the railway station. Two apartments within the mill tower sleep 2 adults only: 15 steps to lower (the larger), 38 steps to upper (with views). Plus self-catering cottages. No dogs. B&B double £100 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 54.305 -0.459 11 Wrea Head Hall , Barmoor Lane, Scalby YO13 0PB ( 2 miles north of town ), ☏ +44 1723 356773 . Upscale country house hotel in Gothic mansion of 1881, refurbished in 2018. B&B double £150 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• The Falcon Inn on the road north to Whitby re-opens in March 2024.

Connect [ edit ]

Scarborough and its environs and approach roads have a good mobile and 4G signal from all UK carriers. As of July 2020, 5G has not reached this area.

Go next [ edit ]

• North past Robin Hood's Bay is Whitby , an attractive fishing harbour with a ruined abbey and a Gothic history, thanks to Dracula .
• The North York Moors rise inland. Pickering has a well-preserved castle, and steam trains ply across the moors towards Whitby. Rievaulx Abbey is nearby.
• South is Filey where you can walk out to sea along the Brigg, and walk back again unless you've been careless about tide times. Further south are the magnificent cliffs of Flamborough Head, then the pleasant resort of Bridlington .
• Malton has several nearby historic buildings; the standout is Castle Howard.
• Brontë Country : other sites associated with the Brontë sisters are mostly around Haworth in West Yorkshire.

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History and heritage in Scarborough

Scarborough is a town filled with history and for centuries has been known as a popular seaside resort in the UK.

During the 17 th  and 18 th  century, doctors claimed bathing in seawater was good for health and wealthy people began to take trips to the seaside. To this day Scarborough is still known as a place for escapism and relaxation as it is still believed that being by the ocean can have a positive impact on your health (it is actually a scientific fact)!

You will also find many historic sites in Scarborough that each have their own story to tell, you may have heard of the famous  Scarborough Castle ,  Scarborough Market Hall ,  The Rotunda Museum ,  Stephen Joseph Theatre  and many more.

Scarborough Arts

Scarborough Arts community is known for many famous artists be it painters, writers, poets, actors or playwrights who have either lived, visited or were inspired by the town.

With such beautiful coastal views, Scarborough is the perfect place for budding artists to get creative, for example, John Atkinson Grimshaw was known for his landscape work and even rented a second home here as it became his favourite place to paint!

You may have also heard of the famous Bronte Sisters? Anne, Charlotte and Emily were all famous novelists and between them had best sellers 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall', 'Jane Eyre' and 'Wuthering Heights'. Anne Bronte in particular loved to visit Scarborough and became the place she came to rest in her final days, you will now find her gravestone in Scarborough’s St Mary’s Church. An exhibition was held at  Scarborough’s Art Gallery  and  Woodend  this year to celebrate the 200 th  anniversary of her birth.

Alan Ayckbourn is another famous name that you may also know, he lives in Scarborough and over the years has written more than 80 plays and is the Artistic Director of the  Stephen Joseph Theatre  where the majority of his work is showcased to this day! He has also won an Oliver and Tony Award and many of his plays have also been produced in London’s West End and New York.

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43 Fun Things To Do In Scarborough UK

Travel , UK | August 4, 2020

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Reminiscent of the British seaside’s glory days, Scarborough in North Yorkshire has all of the ingredients for a great day out in the UK: bucket and spades galore, plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions, a plethora of cheap and cheerful activities and of course, the unmistakeable scent of the great British chippy in the air.

I’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Scarborough, with tips on everything from wet weather activities to where to get a decent meal.

Who needs exotic holidays abroad when you’ve got the North Yorkshire coastline nearby?!

Scarborough has not one but two beaches and they each offer something different to visitors.

Whether you’re planning a family day out in Scarborough with the kids or, like Tom and I, you’re a young couple seeking a fun jaunt to the beach, this guide to what to do in Scarborough will keep you occupied – even when the rain starts.

What to do in Scarborough on a day out

Scroll down for what to do in Scarborough with kids, free sightseeing spots, fun indoor activities in Scarborough, ideas for where to stay and even inspiration for places to visit nearby.

1. Visit Scarborough Castle

One of Scarborough’s top tourist attractions, the 3,000 year old castle built by Henry II is set upon a steep hill between North and South Bay.

Within the 16 acres of land you’ll find an exhibition, shop, coffee shop called Master Gunner’s House and a small play park on the headland near the castle entrance .

Entrance fee: £10.00 for adults, £5.90 for children when you book online in advance (10% discount). Free with an English Heritage membership ( buy here )

Open daily 10am – 5pm

2. Eat the best fish and chips in Scarborough

Competition is tough when it comes to the accolade of best fish n’ chips in town but I found my winner during our day out in Scarborough.

Winking Willy’s serves up mouthwatering hot cod and haddock with salty chips that can be eaten in their restaurant or outside on a bench at the harbour. Watch out for seagulls!

Fish & chips (regular portion): £12.10

Open 11.30am. – 8.00pm daily

3. Ride the Victorian tramway

Step back in time and ride the Central tram to town if your legs aren’t up for the climb – or you just fancy a sit down.

Located conveniently between the St Nicholas Gardens and the imposing Grand Hotel, the tramway has been a Scarborough landmark since 1881. Better than hauling yourself up the steep stairs to get to town from the beach!

The fee is £1.30 for a single adult fare and kids under 5 go free

Open 9.30am – 9.45pm daily

4. Listen to live music at the Scarborough Spa Complex

Once a place where people came to benefit from the curative properties of the spring water, today Scarborough Spa Complex is a truly unique place to see in Scarborough.

It’s an entertainment venue with a Grand Hall, Theatre, galleries, cafes and walkways. They’ve been running a popular summer show for over 20 years.

You can settle into a deckchair and enjoy the orchestra during a morning or evening concert while you look out to sea.

Open 10am – 4pm daily

5. Get a bird’s eye view on the observation wheel

See Scarborough from a new perspective with a ride on the 35-metre high wheel by the seaside.

Step into one of the gondolas and enjoy 360 views over the town and sea during a relaxing 10 minute ride.

The machinery is almost silent, so this could be a good romantic thing to do for couples in Scarborough!

Summer months only .

6. Learn to surf

Surfing is one of the top things to do in Scarborough thanks to the world-class waves.

There are numerous surf schools around the seaside area and the surf there is perfect for beginners.

You can choose from 1-to-1 sessions and group classes, and there are SUPs to rent too.

Check out Scarborough Surf School in Cayton Bay for prices.

7. Play a round of golf

Another of the most popular Scarborough activities can be found back on dry land.

There are two golf courses in Scarborough: South Cliff Golf Club and Scarborough North Cliff .

There’s also Snainton Golf Centre , which boasts an 18 bay driving range, 9 hole golf course, one-on-one, group & child coaching.

Plus, there’s a mini golf course in North Bay!

Check websites linked above for prices and opening hours .

8. Sky Trail Adventure at North Bay Railway

This two-level aerial rope and beam course is a fun family day out in Scarborough and it’s perfect for an alternative stag or hen do activity in Scarborough!

There’s also a water chute, inflatable balls you can run around in on the water and pedalos.

£10.95 per person for the Sky Trail

9. Ride the North Bay Heritage Railway

This Scarborough seaside attraction is a dog-friendly and accessible way to see the stunning North Yorkshire coastline in comfort.

The miniature railway was built in 1931 and runs for 3/4 of a mile from Peasholm Park to Scalby Mills in North Bay.

Trains run at least every 40 minutes from 10:40am.

Fee: Adult return £5.40, child r eturn £3.90

10. See a show at the Open Air theatre (one day!)

Once upon a time this was Europe’s largest open air theatre. It has hosted stars like Louis Tomlinson, Kylie, Lewis Capaldi and Elton John.

Check the website for updates

11. Taste a crab sandwich

If the taste of the seaside is locally caught seafood for you, be sure to grab some fresh crab or prawn sandwiches from one of the many stalls and restaurants that serve it in Scarborough.

You can pick up some cockles too.

12. Rent a beach hut

You can hire an adorable colourful beach chalet for the day for a truly memorable trip to Scarborough.

Available to buy or let on a daily, weekly or seasonal basis, there are one-storey and two-storey chalets lining North Bay’s promenade and they’re all painted in colourful, happy hues.

Visit the website for more information

13. Shop for souvenirs

Any seaside destination worth its salt (and vinegar) boasts an array of stalls selling all manner of tourist tat, and Scarborough is no exception.

There are jewellery and door hangers with your name on, fridge magnets galore, enough shell trinkets to sink the Titanic and a whole host of other weird and wonderful things for sale at the shops and stalls lining the beachfront.

Free things to do in Scarborough

Some of Scarborough’s top attractions don’t cost a thing! The below things to see in Scarborough are free for all.

How many can you tick off?

14. Walk the castle walls

If you don’t feel like paying the admission fee for Scarborough Castle, you can still enjoy impressive views over the town and the North Sea.

The castle walls are a short but steep hike uphill, which should be manageable for kids but isn’t suitable for anyone with mobility difficulties.

15. Explore Peasholm Park

Another free place to go is Scarborough’s Peasholm Park, where you can easily spend the better part of a day. The oriental themed park is dog-friendly but you must keep your pet on a lead.

You can hire a boat and go out on the lake there or take a picnic and time your visit with one of the free music concerts held in the pretty bandstand.

16. Take a photo with Freddie Gilroy

One of the most recognisable statues in Scarborough is the giant steel sculpture depicting Freddie Gilroy.

It was created by Ray Lonsdale and based on a retired miner he knew who was among the first soldiers to relieve the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp at the end of World War II.

Freddie sits on a bench looking out to sea on Royal Albert Drive and you can squeeze in next to him for the ultimate souvenir of your day out in Scarborough.

17. Spend the day at South Bay Beach

The sandy stretch of sand at Scarborough’s best beach gets busy on sunny days when the tide is in, but it’s all part of the fun.

Slap on the factor 50, buy a few cheap buckets and spades from the numerous shops lining the seafront and enjoy a rare British summer’s day.

18. Visit North Bay Beach

On the quieter side and with fewer facilities, North Bay Beach is more rugged than South Bay.

It has Blue Flag status and is perfect for day trippers who prefer to stay away from the main tourist drag.

19. Go rock pooling

North Bay beach has rocky outcrops that are perfect for rock pooling when the tide allows, so it’s great for those who get bored with sunbathing and like to keep busy.

Afterwards, head up to the Old Scalby Mills for pub grub with a sea view.

20. Walk around Scarborough’s Harbour

Tucked in beneath the castle’s headland, Scarborough Harbour is a hive of activity that dates back to medieval times.

It’s considered the jewel in the town’s crown. Admire the fishing boats and yachts, browse the souvenir stalls and walk the three piers.

21. Wander around South Cliff Gardens

These stunning Italian gardens stretch right from Spa Bridge to Holbeck and are replete with roses, a lily pond, an elegant Victorian Esplanade  and gorgeous terraced walks.

It’s the ideal place to escape the seaside crowds and take a moment to stop and smell the flowers.

22. Walk through Royal Albert Park

You can walk through Royal Albert Park from Marine Drive & the promenade of the North Bay to the castle and take in jaw-dropping views of North Bay and its colourful huts. 

The wide open spaces and fresh air is a far cry from the busy shores of Scarborough but equally impressive.

23. Browse the antique stores

The smattering of antique shops in Scarborough are ideal for history buffs and vintage fans.

There’s a great little shop next to The Grand Hotel called The Vintage Window (ring the bell to be invited in). You’ll also find plenty of treasure in the Antique and Collectors Centre .

24. See Anne Brontë’s grave

One for the literary fans! Novelist Anne Bronte is buried in the graveyard of St Mary’s Church .

The youngest member of the Brontë family died in Scarborough in 1849 aged just 29 yrs. She was born in North Yorkshire.

Things to do in Scarborough in the rain

You can never guarantee sunshine when you plan a UK staycation, and Scarborough is no exception to this rule.

Here are some great ideas for indoor activities in Scarborough.

25. Go to the Stephen Joseph Theatre

One of the best places to go in the evening in Scarborough is Stephen Joseph Theatre.

Starting out on the on the first floor of Scarborough Library and transforming through time to become a celebrated theatre-in-the-round as well as the more traditional end-on McCarthy theatre housed in an old 80’s cinema, this is a must-visit in Scarborough.

Check the website for updates.

26. Spend a penny at the amusements

What’s more fun for the kids on a rainy day in Scarborough than an hour or two spending money at the amusements?

Scarborough has no shortage of places to empty your loose change purse but Olympia Leisure   is one of the most popular. It has a bowling alley and a bar with a balcony too! Coney Island , pictured above, is another firm favourite.

27. Visit Scarborough’s Rotunda Museum 

Nicknamed The Pepper Pot, this is one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the UK having opened in 1829.

The Georgian gallery showcases the Jurassic geology of the North Yorkshire coastline. There are over 5,500 fossils in the collection.

This museum is dog-friendly!

Entrance fee: Unlimited entry throughout the year with a £3 annual season ticket, free for under 18s

28. Browse Scarborough’s art galleries

As well as the permanent collection of fine art, the Scarborough Art Gallery hosts regular temporary exhibitions. There’s a cafe next door.

This is another dog-friendly place to visit in Scarborough.

Entrance fee: Unlimited entry throughout the year with a £3 annual season ticket, free for under 18s.

Open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm. Closed Mondays except Bank Holiday Mondays .

29. Relive the past at Scarborough Fair Collection

Take a walk down memory lane at this nostalgia-inducing museum. You can peel at a large collection of vintage cars, steam engines, old fairground rides and more.

There’s even a weekly tea dance with music from an impressive organ.

Check out TripAdvisor for info (their website wasn’t working for me!)

30. See a film at Hollywood Plaza Cinema

This quaint old-school cinema only has one screen but it’s an easy place to kill a few hours waiting for rain clouds to pass overhead.

Tickets: Adult £8.25, OAP/Students (both with proof) £7.25, Child (under 14) £7.25

31. Browse the market

The Market Hall and Vaults is one of the best indoor places to explore in Scarborough.

Recently refurbished, it houses an impressive collection of shops, cafes, butchers and greengrocers across three floors.

The Vaults beneath the Market Hall are a treasure trove of unique shops that you can browse at your leisure.

Open Monday – Saturday, 8am-4pm

What to do in Scarborough with kids

32. go crabbing at the harbour.

Just like nearby Whitby Harbour, Scarborough is a popular spot for crabbing.

For the price of a cheap-as-chips crabbing lines from one of the shops on the promenade, you can have hours of fun trying to catch crustaceans. Cayton Beach is also a good spot.

33. Take a trip on a pirate ship

If your little ones are pirate-mad, they’ll love going on a proper pirate ship during your family day out in Scarborough!

Head to the booking kiosk on South Bay near West Pier and get ready for a fun trip out to sea on The Hispaniola.

34. Make a splash at Alpamare

Scarborough’s waterpark has four slides, a wave pool, spa with a sauna & steam.

There’s a cafe and both indoor and outdoor areas, including an infinity pool. You’d almost forget you’re still in North Yorkshire!

The outdoor pool is heated, I’m sure you’ll be pleased to learn.

Admission prices: £19 per adult, from £9 per child a t peak times.

Open daily from 10am – 9pm.

35. Get arty at Pot 2 Doodle Do

This child-friendly arts and craft centre is the perfect place for indoor creative fun with the kids if it rains during your trip to Scarborough.

You’ll get a handmade pottery souvenir of your UK holiday and can even make clay imprints – a lovely memory for babies.

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm

Check out the Facebook page for more info.

36. Play crazy golf

Captain Jack’s Adventure Golf is an 18-hole family golf course that will keep everyone entertained.

There are quite a few crazy golf courses around Scarborough so if one is busy, try another! The one in North Bay is generally quieter.

Adults £5, kids (up to 15 years) £4

Open daily from 11am, closed in extreme weather conditions .

37. Amp up the adrenaline at the fun fair

What better way to end a day at the seaside than with a nausea-inducing funfair ride? Luna Park is situated on the seafront and has all sorts of fun rides, including dodgems.

Open Saturdays & Sundays, 11:30am–6:30pm

Things to do near Scarborough

Thanks to its position on the North Yorkshire coastline, there are plenty of places of interest near Scarborough if you have time to explore the local area.

38. Sandsend Beach

We spent the day in Scarborough during our overnight stay at Raithwaite Sandsend Hotel .

Sandsend beach is a much quieter alternative to Scarborough’s beaches and it’s also a good surfing spot.

York is around one hour’s drive from Scarborough. The historic city is particularly atmospheric in Autumn and Winter, when the moody skies provide a dramatic backdrop for York Minster and the timeworn cobbles of The Shambles.

Read my guide to what to do in York

Made famous by its links to Dracula, Whitby is just 40 minutes away from Scarborough by car.

You can easily spend the whole day there, visiting the Abbey and walking around the busy harbour area.

Read my guide to top things to do in Whitby

41. Robin Hood’s Bay

This is my all-time favourite place to go in Yorkshire! Picturesque Robin Hood’s Bay is like a miniature version of Whitby.

The small fishing village is wonderfully picturesque and is filled to the brim with whimsical cottages and ramshackle shops.

42. Harrogate

Less than two hours from Scarborough, Harrogate is home to the famous Betty’s Tea Room. I’m visiting Harrogate very soon, so keep an eye out for my guide!

If you’re looking for a destination near Scarborough with great shopping, nightlife and culture, head to Leeds!

The city has more urban grit than other places in Yorkshire and plenty of great restaurants to choose from if you get peckish.

Read my guide to what to do in Leeds

Click here to join my UK Travel Deals group on Facebook. We share lots of great ways to save money on UK trips and fun ideas for days out and places to visit in the UK.

Where to stay in Scarborough

The most iconic hotel in Scarborough is The Grand , where you’ll have an incredible view of the beach – but the place is slightly dated.

On the luxury end of the scale, The Farrier is fabulous. They have huge rooms, all the comforts you could ask for and an excellent restaurant and cocktail bar.

If you’re interested in glamping in Scarborough, Humble Bee Farm will be right up your street. You can choose from yurts, real camping, wigwam cabins and luxury cottages and bell tents.

You can search for all Scarborough accommodation options using the booking.com map below.

I have to admit that I’m annoyed at myself for not visiting Scarborough sooner! There’s loads to see and do for all ages and now one of my favourite places to spend a summer’s day in the UK.

Let me know if there’s a Scarborough must-see that I missed!

Head to my UK travel guide section

August 15, 2020 at 9:54 am

What a great guide. The Vicotrian Tramway looks really fun! Good staycation inspo.

August 15, 2020 at 2:15 pm

There’s so many things to do here! I did not expect that. And the Grand sounds like a great place to visit.

August 15, 2020 at 2:52 pm

Scarborough looks adorable! So many things to see and do too – looks like lots of fun.

August 15, 2020 at 5:31 pm

That’s a beautiful place and so many locations to explore .love it

Ophelie says

August 15, 2020 at 5:45 pm

I have never heard about Scarborough before, it looks so fun! It’s good to see that we can still find places to enjoy at our doorstep!

Vanessa Shields says

August 15, 2020 at 9:37 pm

Scarborough looks like a lovely town to visit! It seems like a peaceful seaside town with a lot of charm. I’d enjoy taking walks on the beach, surfing and visiting the castle the most. Oh and what I wouldn’t give to eat those fish and chips right now! 😁

MacKenzie - Rainbow Travel Life says

August 15, 2020 at 9:59 pm

I love all these options and ideas! I feel like even though I’ve been to the UK at least 5 times, there’s always more I want to see – like Scarborough Castle and the Victorian Tramway.

August 15, 2020 at 11:31 pm

Would love to visit! Those fish and chips looks so yummy.

Margarita Ibbott @DownshiftingPRO says

August 16, 2020 at 4:54 pm

Wow. That was a very comprehensive list. You gave me some great ideas. Thanks for sharing your lovely visit to Scarborough.

Experience Scarborough like never before

The project.

Scarborough 360 is a local resource providing tourist information and insight into Scarborough’s best attractions. Designed and built by Betton Design, Scarborough 360 uses the latest technology available to display beautiful 360° panoramic virtual tours of famous local landmarks. The areas covered include Scarborough, Whitby, Filey as well as many other locations throughout North Yorkshire.

Scarborough is famous for its extremely beautiful coastlines and amenities, which encourage hundreds of thousands of visitors per year. This website showcases the beauty of the town and its surrounding region, as well as providing further useful information for each landmark and attraction. This project hopes to inspire both locals and tourists alike to make efforts to explore our fabulous and varied region.

The team at Scarborough 360 are always on the lookout for further attractions and popular landmarks to photograph, so please contact us with any suggestions that you may have. Please also show your support for the Scarborough 360 project by getting involved on Facebook and Twitter.

Scarbororough 360

Scarborough and its nearby coastal towns and villages have so much to offer both residents and tourists alike and Scarborough 360 was created in to show off the regions natural and man made beauty. Scarborough was the first seaside resort in the United Kingdom and for well over 200 years people have made their way to the town, wanting to drink in the fresh sea air and take advantage of the town's wonderful array of recreational amenities. With a great heritage and historical significance, Scarborough is a wonderful tourist attraction appealing to thousands of summer travellers every year.

Scarborough 360 is a free to use resource built by local digital design agency Betton Design. With more and more investment into the town, Scarborough continues to grow and shine as one of the most popular sea side resorts in the UK and Betton Design are more than happy to support the Scarborough 360 project, hoping that their efforts help in a small way to the future prosperity of the town.

Scarborough 360’s aim is to provide an easy to use and useful tourism information platform which make use of beautiful photography to showcase some of North Yorkshire favourite tourism locations.

Who's Behind It

Scarborough 360 is brought to you by Betton Design , a local web design and digital studio based at Betton Business Park in Scarborough. Betton Design are a cutting-edge website design and development company providing onilne marketing and SEO solutions to businesses in Scarborough, York and throughout North Yorkshire. With a great deal of skills at the their finger tips, Betton Design wanted to help to promote Scarborough's tourism industry by building the Scarborough 360 tourist information website.

Betton Design work closely with the most progressive and reputable businesses in Scarborough providing and effecting forward thinking strategies for successful online business development.

Betton Design are dedicated to the Scarborough 360 project and are determined to provide a website for local information, making use high quality photographic 360 degree virtual tours. If you would like to contact Betton Design for any purpose, you can find their details in the footer below.