The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Scarborough Seaside Resort Printable Guide

Scarborough Seaside Resort Guide

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Ultimate Guide to Scarborough Seaside Resort

Introduction

Scarborough is one of the UK’s most famous and historic seaside resorts, located on the North Yorkshire coast. With stunning beaches, charming Victorian architecture, a vibrant harbor, and a rich history, Scarborough offers a mix of traditional seaside fun and modern attractions. This guide will help you explore everything this wonderful coastal town has to offer.

Getting There

By Car:

Scarborough is accessible via the A64 from York, the A165 from Hull, and the A171 from Whitby. There are multiple parking options available in the town center, as well as at North and South Bay.

By Train:

Direct train services run from cities such as York, Leeds, and Manchester. Scarborough’s train station is centrally located, making it easy to reach the town’s main attractions.

By Bus:

Various bus services connect Scarborough to nearby towns and cities. National Express and local bus operators offer routes to and from the resort.

Where to Stay

Scarborough offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets:

  • Luxury Hotels: The Crown Spa Hotel, The Grand Hotel

  • Mid-Range Options: The Clifton Hotel, Rivelyn Hotel

  • Budget Choices: Premier Inn, Travelodge, B&Bs, and Guesthouses

  • Holiday Parks: Cayton Bay Holiday Park for those who want a camping or caravan experience

Top Attractions

1. South Bay Beach

The South Bay is the heart of Scarborough's seaside experience, with a wide sandy beach, donkey rides, traditional arcades, ice cream shops, and plenty of fish and chip stalls.

2. North Bay Beach

Quieter and more scenic than South Bay, North Bay offers a Blue Flag beach ideal for families and surfers. There's a lovely promenade and a mini-train ride to enjoy along the coast.

3. Scarborough Castle

Perched on the headland between North and South Bay, Scarborough Castle is a historic fortress dating back to the 12th century. Explore the ruins, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about the castle’s history through interactive displays.

4. Peasholm Park

A beautiful Japanese-themed park featuring a boating lake, mini waterfalls, and gardens. In summer, you can enjoy naval warfare reenactments on the lake.

5. Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary

An ideal family day out, the SEA LIFE Sanctuary is home to a variety of marine life, including seals, penguins, turtles, and sharks. There are interactive rock pools and feeding demonstrations to engage visitors of all ages.

6. The Rotunda Museum

A fascinating museum dedicated to geology, archaeology, and local history. It features fossils from the Jurassic Coast and information on Scarborough's ancient history.

7. Alpamare Waterpark

A fantastic indoor and outdoor water park with slides, wave pools, and a heated outdoor infinity pool, perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

8. Scarborough Spa and the Scarborough Open Air Theatre

For entertainment and live performances, these venues offer a range of events, from concerts and comedy shows to musicals and theater productions.

Things to Do

1. Enjoy Watersports

Try surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing along the coastline. North Bay is especially popular with surfers, while South Bay offers paddleboarding rentals and lessons.

2. Take a Coastal Walk

Scarborough offers some fantastic coastal walks. Explore the Cleveland Way National Trail for stunning views, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive, which links North and South Bay.

3. Ride the North Bay Railway

This miniature railway is a great way to travel between Peasholm Park and Scalby Mills, offering fun for both children and adults.

4. Explore Scarborough's Harbour

Take a boat trip, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply soak up the bustling atmosphere of this working harbor. You can even go on a fishing trip if you're feeling adventurous!

Dining Options

Seafood Delights

  • Golden Grid: Traditional fish and chips

  • Harbour Bar: Old-fashioned ice cream parlor

  • The Seafood Social: Offers freshly caught seafood

Family-Friendly Restaurants

  • Ask Italian: For delicious pizzas and pasta

  • Brewers Fayre: Classic British pub food

Fine Dining

  • Lanterna: Authentic Italian cuisine

  • The Green Room of Bar Street: Contemporary British dishes using locally sourced ingredients

Events and Festivals

  • Scarborough Seafest (July): A maritime festival celebrating Scarborough's seafaring heritage with food, music, and activities.

  • Scarborough Jazz Festival (September): A fantastic weekend of jazz music.

  • Scarborough Fair: A traditional event with crafts, stalls, and performances that brings history to life.

Shopping in Scarborough

Scarborough offers a mix of high-street shops, independent boutiques, and quaint souvenir stores:

  • Brunswick Shopping Centre: Home to popular retail brands

  • Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults: Perfect for local produce, unique gifts, and vintage finds

  • Eastborough and Newborough: Streets lined with a variety of independent shops and cafes

Tips for Visiting Scarborough

  1. Plan Ahead: Check the tide times if you’re heading to the beach, as the water can come in quite quickly.

  2. Pack for All Weathers: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, and layers.

  3. Try Local Delicacies: Don’t leave without trying a traditional fish and chips meal by the sea.

  4. Use Public Transport: Scarborough’s Park & Ride service makes it easy to explore the town without worrying about parking.

Day Trips from Scarborough

  • Whitby: A historic seaside town known for its connections to Bram Stoker's "Dracula," a striking abbey, and quaint streets.

  • Robin Hood’s Bay: A charming fishing village with narrow streets and breathtaking views.

  • York: Just an hour’s drive or train ride away, York offers a wealth of history, shopping, and culture.

Conclusion

Scarborough is a delightful seaside resort that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for family fun, historical exploration, or a relaxing getaway. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant entertainment scene, Scarborough is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the quintessential British seaside experience.