Discover Scarborough | A Visitor's Introduction to Scarborough

Why is Scarborough Worth a Visit?

Scarborough is worth visiting for its beautiful coastal views, sandy beaches, and rich history. The town is divided into two main bays, North and South, each offering its own unique character. South Bay is home to classic seaside attractions, including arcades, cafes, and the famous Scarborough Spa, while North Bay is known for its quieter, natural beauty and stunning views of Scarborough Castle. Whether you’re interested in visiting medieval ruins, enjoying fish and chips by the sea, or exploring clifftop walks, Scarborough offers a classic seaside experience with a historic twist.

Scarborough Highlights: Things to See and Do in Scarborough

1. Scarborough Castle

Perched high on a clifftop, Scarborough Castle offers breathtaking views of both North and South Bays. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has witnessed centuries of history, from Viking invasions to the English Civil War. Today, you can explore the ruins, walk along the ancient walls, and learn about its fascinating past through exhibits and guided tours. The castle grounds are also a great place for a picnic with panoramic coastal views.

2. Scarborough Beach – South and North Bays

Scarborough has two main beaches, each with its own appeal. South Bay Beach is bustling and lively, perfect for families looking to enjoy traditional seaside attractions like ice cream stalls, arcades, donkey rides, and beach cafes. North Bay Beach, on the other hand, is quieter and more relaxed, offering beautiful sands backed by grassy hills. It’s an ideal spot for a scenic walk or a peaceful afternoon by the water.

3. Peasholm Park

Peasholm Park is a stunning oriental-themed park with gardens, boating lake, and serene landscapes. The park’s centrepiece is the island pagoda, surrounded by lush gardens and water features. Rowboats and pedal boats are available to rent, and in summer, you can watch the quirky “Naval Warfare” display, a family-friendly show featuring model warships. The park is a peaceful spot for picnics, and its colourful, exotic feel makes it a unique addition to any Scarborough itinerary.

4. Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary

Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary is a family favourite, offering an interactive and educational experience with a variety of marine life, including seals, turtles, and colourful fish. Highlights include the underwater tunnel, where you can see sea creatures swimming above and around you, as well as the seal hospital, where injured and orphaned seals are cared for and rehabilitated. SEA LIFE is ideal for a rainy day or for families with children, as there are feeding sessions, talks, and touch pools to engage visitors.

5. The Spa Complex

Scarborough Spa is an iconic venue with Victorian roots and a scenic location along South Bay. The Spa is still a major cultural hub, hosting concerts, theatre performances, comedy shows, and special events throughout the year. The Victorian architecture and seaside setting make it a picturesque spot for a stroll, and there’s a café with views overlooking the bay. If you’re interested in Scarborough’s history, join a tour of the building to learn about its origins as a health spa and entertainment venue.

6. Rotunda Museum

Built in 1829, the Rotunda Museum is one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the UK, dedicated to geology and archaeology. The museum’s exhibits focus on the Jurassic Coast and the ancient fossils found along the Yorkshire coast, including dinosaur footprints and fossils. The Rotunda is compact but full of interesting finds, making it a fascinating stop for history and science enthusiasts, especially those with an interest in prehistoric life.

7. Scarborough Open Air Theatre

The Scarborough Open Air Theatre is the largest of its kind in Europe, hosting big-name musical acts and performances during the summer months. Set against a backdrop of natural beauty with an artificial lake separating the stage from the audience, the theatre offers a unique outdoor concert experience. Past performers have included stars like Elton John, Kylie Minogue, and Britney Spears. Be sure to check the schedule in advance if you’re visiting during summer, as tickets often sell out for popular acts.

8. Alpamare Water Park

Alpamare is a fantastic water park on the North Bay, perfect for families and thrill-seekers. With exciting slides, an outdoor heated pool, a wave pool, and a splash area for younger children, Alpamare offers fun for all ages. For a bit of relaxation, there’s also a wellness area with a sauna and a heated infinity pool overlooking the sea. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to enjoy a bit of water-based fun, whatever the weather.

9. The Cleveland Way and Coastal Walks

Scarborough is located along the Cleveland Way National Trail, a scenic long-distance path that stretches from Helmsley to Filey along the coast. The clifftop walks offer fantastic views over the North Sea and are perfect for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Yorkshire coastline. For a shorter walk, head north towards the picturesque Robin Hood’s Bay, or south towards the scenic Filey Brigg. The coastal paths are great for birdwatching, and the rugged landscape makes for excellent photo opportunities.

10. Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults

Scarborough Market Hall is a bustling market with a variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local crafts and vintage finds. Located in a historic building, the market is a great place to experience the local community spirit and pick up unique souvenirs. The Vaults, a collection of shops set below the market, offer antiques, vinyl records, and quirky gifts. It’s a fantastic spot for browsing, and there are several cafes nearby to enjoy a local treat.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Scarborough is accessible by car, train, and bus. Direct trains run from York, Leeds, and Manchester, taking about an hour from York. If you’re driving, the A64 connects Scarborough to the national motorway network, and the scenic A171 route from Whitby offers beautiful coastal views. National Express and local buses also connect Scarborough to surrounding towns and cities, making it easy to get there.

Parking

Parking in Scarborough can be busy, especially during the summer months. The main car parks are situated close to the town centre and beaches, including the West Pier and North Bay car parks. There are also park-and-ride services available on the outskirts of town, with regular buses that drop you near the main attractions, ideal during peak tourist season to avoid town-centre traffic.

Dining

Scarborough has a diverse dining scene, from traditional fish and chips to upscale seafood restaurants. For an iconic seaside meal, head to The Magpie Café for award-winning fish and chips. The Green Room and Clark’s Restaurant are popular for local and seasonal dishes, and for fresh seafood with a view, try Café Fish near the harbour. For a sweet treat, head to Harbour Bar, a 1950s-style ice cream parlour offering a retro experience and delicious sundaes.

Shopping

Scarborough offers a variety of shopping experiences, from popular high-street stores on Westborough and St Nicholas Street to independent boutiques in the Old Town. For unique finds, the Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults are worth exploring for antiques, crafts, and local produce. Don’t forget to pick up traditional Scarborough rock, a sweet souvenir of your trip, available at many shops near the seafront.

When to Visit

Scarborough is a year-round destination, but summer is the most popular time, with warm weather, bustling beaches, and a full calendar of events. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for coastal walks and exploring at a relaxed pace. Winter brings a quieter atmosphere, with festive events like the Scarborough Christmas Market adding a cosy feel to the town. The Scarborough Fair Festival in September is a great time to visit, with live music, crafts, and traditional entertainment.

Local Events

Scarborough hosts a range of annual events that bring energy and excitement to the town. The Scarborough Fair Festival, a revival of the historic medieval fair, takes place in September with live music, local crafts, and activities for all ages. The Armed Forces Day in June is another highlight, with military displays, a parade, and family-friendly events. For music lovers, the Scarborough Jazz Festival and the Scarborough Spa Orchestra performances at the Spa Complex are must-attend events.

Exploring Beyond Scarborough

Scarborough’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Yorkshire coast and North York Moors. Just a short drive north, Robin Hood’s Bay is a charming village with narrow streets, coastal walks, and fossil-rich beaches. Whitby, with its Gothic abbey and Dracula connections, is about 30 minutes by car and offers a wealth of history and culture. Inland, the North York Moors National Park provides stunning landscapes, moorland walks, and picturesque villages like Goathland and Pickering.