York Railway Station, located in York, England, is a major hub in the UK's rail network. Opened in 1877, it was once the largest station in the world and is renowned for its grand Victorian architecture, featuring a sweeping curved roof made of iron and glass.

The station serves as a key interchange for services traveling to destinations such as London, Edinburgh, and Manchester.

Its proximity to the National Railway Museum enhances its importance in British railway history.

The station's historical charm, combined with modern amenities, makes it both a functional transport hub and a landmark.

The York to Scarborough railway line is a historic railway route in North Yorkshire. It runs from York, a major railway hub with extensive connections across the UK, to the seaside town of Scarborough. The line is approximately 42 miles (68 km) long and passes through picturesque countryside, including the Vale of York and Howardian Hills.

The line was opened on 7 July 1845 by the York and North Midland Railway, under the direction of George Hudson, known as the "Railway King.”

The line has historically been important for tourism, as it connected York with the popular coastal resort of Scarborough, bringing in holidaymakers from all over the country.

Today, the route is part of the TransPennine Express network, and it remains a scenic and important passenger line.

Though it no longer carries freight traffic, it is still a popular route for both locals and tourists visiting the coast.

Scarborough railway station has a rich history dating back to its opening on July 7, 1845. It was established by the York and North Midland Railway (YNMR), which was under the management of the famous railway entrepreneur George Hudson. The station was a key part of connecting the coastal town of Scarborough to York and beyond, significantly boosting the town's development as a popular seaside resort.

The original station was much smaller, but due to increasing demand, it was expanded in the late 19th century, with a grander design. Today’s station was designed by George Townsend Andrews. Just over the road are some further ticketed seating at the Stephen Joseph Theatre!

Scarborough Town Hall was originally built in 1844 as a private house called St. Nicholas House, it became the town hall in 1899 when Scarborough Corporation purchased it.

The Queen Victoria Statue was unveiled in 1903, two years after Queen Victoria's death, the statue was commissioned to honour her long reign and her impact on Britain and the Empire. Sculpted by C. B. Birch.

St Nicolas Gardens are part of the Victorian heritage of the town, designed as a tranquil green space for both locals and visitors. It was developed in the 19th century to complement the Grand Hotel.

The Scarborough Central Tramway is a historic funicular railway that connects Scarborough’s South Bay beach with the town centre, located on the steep St. Nicholas Cliff.

It opened in 1881 and is one of the oldest surviving cliff railways in the UK. The tramway was built to provide an easier and quicker way for visitors to access the seafront from the hotels and attractions higher up the cliff.

The tramway consists of two cars on parallel tracks, which counterbalance each other as they ascend and descend the steep incline

The Grand Hotel in Scarborough is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks of the town, overlooking the South Bay. Opened in 1867, it was one of the largest and most luxurious hotels in Europe at the time. Designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, the hotel is a striking example of Victorian architecture, known for its distinctive "V" shape, symbolizing Queen Victoria, and its ornate, grand façade.

The Spa Bridge in Scarborough is an elegant iron structure built in 1827 to connect the town centre with the popular Scarborough Spa complex. Spanning the deep valley of Ramsdale, the bridge was originally designed to provide easier access for visitors traveling between the cliffside hotels and the spa, which was renowned for its health-giving waters.

You can also see the Rotunda Museum that is famous for the Gristhorpe Man, a bronze age man discovered in a hollowed out oak coffin.

You also receive an elevated view of South Bay including the lighthouse and harbour. It emphasises one of the things I like best about Scarborough, its scenic landmarks throughout.

South Cliff Gardens have had a makeover in recent times but I am going to head up to The Esplanade to discover two structures of particular interest.

The Esplanade is a grand, scenic promenade located on the South Cliff, overlooking the South Bay and the North Sea. Developed during the Victorian era, it was designed to cater to the town's booming popularity as a seaside resort. The Esplanade is lined with elegant 19th-century hotels, townhouses, and gardens, offering visitors stunning views of the coastline.

The Esplanade is a popular walking spot, featuring well-kept gardens, seating areas, and access to key attractions like the Scarborough Spa and the Italian Gardens. It provides a tranquil setting for enjoying the sea breeze and is a key part of the town’s heritage, reflecting its Victorian charm and resort history.

The two structures I wanted to look at is the building used in The Royal, the spin off TV series of Heartbeat. Just opposite on the cliff top is the stunning Clock Tower.

It was built in 1912 to commemorate the coronation of King George V. The structure is designed in an ornate, Edwardian style, featuring a four-faced clock atop a stone and brick base with decorative elements.

Following the path around the curvaceous nature of South Cliffs brings us closer to a structure we have already seen today. The Scarborough Spa Complex.

It is an historic entertainment and conference venue located on Scarborough’s South Bay. It has its roots in the 17th century, when Scarborough became famous for its natural spa waters, believed to have health benefits.

The original spa building, built in the early 18th century, was developed to accommodate the growing number of visitors seeking the therapeutic waters.

The complex as it stands today has evolved significantly over the centuries. After the original spa building was damaged by a landslide in 1737, it was rebuilt and expanded multiple times during the 19th century, eventually becoming one of Scarborough’s key attractions.

In 1876, the Grand Hall was added, designed by architect Henry Currey, which now serves as a concert and event space.

The Scarborough Spa Complex offers a mix of facilities, including a theatre, a concert hall, and conference spaces. It is renowned for hosting live performances, including the famous Scarborough Spa Orchestra, the last remaining seaside orchestra in the UK. The venue also hosts exhibitions, conferences, weddings, and other large events.

Situated along the seafront with stunning views over the bay, the Scarborough Spa Complex is a centrepiece of the town’s cultural and social life, blending historic charm with modern entertainment. Its rich history and Victorian architecture make it an iconic part of Scarborough’s seaside heritage.

If there is one thing in the entire resort that attracts visitors young or old is the attractive beach with its golden sands and its bluish sea water. In fact, more often than not, out of holiday season it attracts dogs from all over dogdom, and yes I include my own in that.

Overshadowed by the Cliff Bridge or Spa Bridge as well as the Grand Hotel, South Bay has a curvaceous beach that stretched from Scarborough Spa through to the RNLI Lifeboat Station. It is surrounded by landmarks, amusements, eateries and gift shops that emphasise the word resort.

One way of exploring the beach is the use of Scarborough’s Observation Wheel, a ferris wheel if you prefer. Installed in the summer months, the large Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the town, coastline, and the surrounding North Sea, positioned near prominent landmarks.

When I visit Scarborough, I cannot help but take a walk along Vincent Pier, and this holds some of Scarborough Seafronts major attractions too.

It is one of the locations where you can board some of the sea navigable boat tours that operate when the seas are favourable.

On the right you can see the Albert Strange Pontoons, floating walkways that are named after a headteacher who once lived in Scarborough.

On the left hand side you can hear the fun and laughter contained within the Luna Park Funfair with its plethora of varying rides and amusements.

A relatively new but old feature of Vincent Pier is the Dunkirk Experience Museum, as the Regal Lady herself played part in the event.

Seagrown specialise in seaweed harvesting and have a visitor centre and cafe based on the Southern Star vessel berthed here. They produce varying products created using seaweed. If you time it right, you will also get to see here working vessel Bright Blue that used to be an oil spill response vessel.

Scarborough’s Vincent Pier also contains landmarks as well as attractions including Captain Sydney Smith Bridge that leads up to the lighthouse. He was a Scarborough resident who created detailed records of thousands of ships that sailed into the harbour.

The original lighthouse was built in 1806 to assist ships approaching the busy Scarborough harbour. It was constructed during a time when Scarborough was a growing port and fishing hub, and the lighthouse was essential for safe navigation, especially during poor weather conditions.

Stood before it is a sculpture by Craig Knowles known as the Diving Belle and we encounter her sister later. She is a victorian swimmer overlooking the North Sea.

Another attraction is simply to see the boats of various kinds.

At the tip of Vincent Pier is the recovered Vickers World War I Naval gun that was airlifted out of the water by the Royal Air Force. It belonged to the sunken HSS Hornsund that was torpedoed in 1917.

Scarborough Castle is an iconic medieval fortress that dominates the skyline of Scarborough, perched high on a rocky headland overlooking both the North and South Bays of the town. With over 3,000 years of history, the site has been used for a variety of purposes, from a Bronze Age settlement to a medieval stronghold and military outpost.

The castle keep was a main living area while at the same time being heavily fortified and the last place to be targeted for siege or attack. Ironically, this particular keep is in ruins and doesn’t appear very fortified. Still Scarborough Castle came under attack during the English Civil War when it was bombarded from the grounds of St Mary’s Church below.

Within the Castle grounds is a large grassy heath that stretches out across the headland, adding to the surrounding scenery of the North Sea.

Archaeological evidence shows that the headland on which Scarborough Castle now stands was occupied as early as the Bronze Age, around 2,500 years ago. The Romans also built a signal station on the site in the 4th century AD, as part of a series of defensive outposts along the Yorkshire coast to warn of potential seaborne threats.

The castle as we know it began in 1136 when the Earl of York, constructed a wooden fortification on the site during the reign of King Stephen. Later, King Henry II recognised its strategic importance and had the wooden structure replaced with a stone castle. The keep, which is still visible today, was completed in the mid-12th century and remains one of the most impressive Norman towers in England.

The Freddie Gilroy sculpture, titled Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers, is a large steel statue located in Scarborough, UK. It depicts Freddie Gilroy, a former soldier who helped liberate the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during World War II. Created by artist Ray Lonsdale, the sculpture shows Gilroy sitting on a bench, reflecting on the war. It symbolizes the quiet heroism of ordinary soldiers and commemorates their sacrifices.

The Bathing Belle sculpture is a whimsical bronze statue that captures the spirit of 20th-century seaside holidays. It portrays a woman in a classic bathing suit, standing confidently and playfully, celebrating Scarborough’s history as a popular seaside resort.

The North Bay Railway was constructed as part of a broader development project to promote tourism in Scarborough. It opened on 23rd May 1931, primarily to transport visitors from Peasholm Park to the newly developed Northstead Manor Gardens and the beach area at Scalby Mills.

The railway is a miniature railway with a gauge of 20 inches (508 mm), which is one of the wider miniature railway gauges in the UK. The track runs for approximately 0.75 miles (1.2 kilometers), connecting the two main stations, Peasholm Station and Scalby Mills Station.

The railway operates several diesel-hydraulic locomotives, the most famous of which are named "Neptune" and "Poseidon". Neptune, built in 1931, was the railway's original locomotive and remains in operation to this day, making it one of the oldest continuously running locomotives in the UK. Poseidon was introduced in the 1930s and continues to serve the railway.

At the Peasholm end of this route you will see the historic log flume that also was constructed in 1931, along with the more modern Sky Trail that overhangs the railway.

The railway typically runs from spring through late autumn, with trains operating daily during peak holiday periods and weekends during off-peak times.

Peasholm Park is a beautiful, historic park known for its tranquil atmosphere, oriental-inspired design, and unique attractions. Opened in 1912, it has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for over a century.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Peasholm Park is its oriental theme, inspired by Chinese and Japanese garden designs, although the design was actually English. The park features traditional Asian-style bridges, pagodas, and carefully landscaped gardens, which give it a unique and serene feel.

At the heart of the park is an island in the middle of a large boating lake, accessible via a decorative bridge. The island is home to a striking pagoda, adding to the park's tranquil and exotic atmosphere.

The lake is one of the park’s central attractions. Visitors can rent pedalos, rowing boats, or even dragon-themed pedal boats to explore the water. The lake itself is surrounded by beautiful trees and gardens, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful boat ride or a stroll along its shores.

The park is home to extensive gardens and woodland areas, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy nature. The park features well-maintained flowerbeds, manicured lawns, and wooded pathways. There are numerous benches where visitors can relax and take in the serene surroundings.

The Glen, a wooded ravine at the park's northern end, is perfect for walking and exploring, with small streams and waterfalls adding to the beauty of the park.

For visitors looking to relax with a snack or drink, the park features a café near the entrance that serves refreshments, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the park's amenities.

Malton Station looks very different to how it began because it had once had two platforms and a station roof! Today, it has just one platform that serves trains in both directions.

If you want to venture onwards to Eden Camp or Flamingo Land, you can board an 840 bus from just across the road at the bus station.

Malton Market Place is the historic heart of Malton, a charming market town in North Yorkshire.

It serves as a central hub for the town's vibrant community, featuring a blend of traditional market stalls, independent shops, cafés, and restaurants.

The square has been a focal point for local trade since medieval times and hosts regular markets, including the popular monthly food markets, showcasing the region's finest produce.

Surrounded by Georgian architecture and heritage buildings, Malton is often referred to as the "Food Capital of Yorkshire" due to its emphasis on local food culture and regular festivals.

Don’t forget to see the wall murals, one featuring the recipe for Yorkshire Puddings by culinary writer Hannah Glasse.

A focal point in the market place is St Michaels Church, one of three major churches in Malton and Old Malton. It is sometimes affectionately known as the church in the marketplace.

With its many food shops and eateries, you can understand why Malton is food and drink orientated.

The Milton Rooms is a versatile arts and community venue known for hosting a wide range of events, including theatre performances, concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops.

One of the most eye-catching structures in my view is the town hall that features a popular restaurant. The large arched windows give you a superb view of bustling life outside, especially on Saturdays when the regular outdoor markets are in session.

There is also an historic livestock market where livestock is auctioned through professional auctioneers. You can see the pens outside.

The Shambles or street of butchers, can be found just opposite where fresh meat was once sold. Today, it features a variety of independent retailers to explore.

Yorkersgate also features some places of interest such as Malton’s Palace Cinema. It contains one of Yorkshire’s smallest screens but with state of the art equipment.

Just next door is The Lanes shopping Mall featuring some amazing independent stores.

A little further up the road and you will see Malton Museum that is free entry at the time of filming. They have exhibits pertaining to the local area and they even feature some interesting walking tours too.

Heading up the gentle hill on Yorkersgate is the famous 17th century coaching inn and now popular Talbot Hotel.  It is a grade I listed building and forges a warm welcome as you enter into Malton from the A64.

Just across the road from the Talbot Hotel is the Talbot Yard Food Court. It currently hosts 6 popular artisan foodie retailers including coffee, Gin and macaroons!

Another noticeable feature is the war memorial with its cosy seating to reflect on those who lost their lives for their country.

From here you can also see The Mount Hotel and Restaurant that is a very popular location in the market town.

Malton’s high street features further independent retailers as well as some high street stores. You can also find some department stores such as Boyes and Yorkshire Trading that sell most things you can think of.

This what makes Malton’s streets pleasant to meander through, there’s something around every corner.

Heading towards, Old Malton, you can discover The Old Lodge, another popular hotel in Malton that was once a Tudor Mansion and located near the site of a former Roman fortress, and in castle grounds. This is just one example of Malton’s historic structures.

Another is the iconic St Leonard’s Church that can be seen from miles around as it is situated on a hill. It’s large circular clock heralds the time over the town without the need of a wrist watch.

In honesty, I was blown away with my visit to Scarborough Castle, and this occupies my mind the most, particularly the views as well as the ruins.  I felt that this gave my visits to Scarborough a new lease of life.

Additionally, I have to say that there aren’t many places like Scarborough that can offer so much in terms of things to see and do, except for York. No matter who you are, how old you are, and what interests you, its all there.  Scarborough literally has it all.

Having said this, if you have the ticket to allow you to do so, do stop off at Malton and have a look around. I realise that this might be asking a lot if you are tired from your time in Scarborough, but it just adds to the day and puts a fine cherry on top of the cake.  You can always sleep on the train!

When I travel by train, I always purchase a paper ticket rather than use the app, even though the app can be less expensive. The reason being, it allows me to take travel breaks and you are not tied down to boarding a particular train.