things to do in North Yorkshire

Things to do in Scarborough

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Discover the best things to do in Scarborough

A popular coastal resort amongst families, enjoy plenty of things to do in Scarborough.

Considered the world’s first seaside resort, Scarborough is the perfect place for families to holiday.

Scarborough Attractions

A visit to Scarborough wouldn’t be complete without a trip along the North York Moors on a traditional steam train or discovering the 12th century Scarborough Castle.

Look forward to soaking up the scenery from the two glorious beaches whilst the children paddle in the waters and build sandcastles. For more old-fashioned fun, grab an ice cream before enjoying a donkey ride along the sand. Beaches here include Cayton Bay Beach, North Bay Beach and South Bay Beach.

Scarborough Activities

Scarborough is home to a wonderful selection of activities for families, couples and even solo travellers. Spend a day relaxing at the luxurious leisure facilities at Alpamere UK, perfect for a lavish treat. Alternatively, find a selection of museums, galleries and award-winning parks awaiting to be enjoyed. Some of which include SEA LIFE Scarborough, Scarborough Open Air Theatre, and Peasholm Park.

Things to do near Scarborough

Scarborough is in the perfect location of holiday destinations throughout North Yorkshire. More sandy, seaside resorts await at Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Filey. Or, if you fancy a trip to a historic city, York has everything you need! Other places worth visiting include Redcar and Staithes.

Keep reading to discover a range of things to do in Scarborough…

  • Alpamare

    Alpamare UK

    28 Burniston Rd, Scarborough YO12 6PH

    01723 861431

    For those who love an adventure, this North Yorkshire attraction promises to be the biggest and the fastest waterpark that you have ever seen!

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  • Cayton bay beach

    Cayton Bay Beach

    Dog Friendly

    A superb beach which is a firm favourite with surfers due to its natural geology, as well as a good spot for walkers and fossil hunters.

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  • North Bay, Scarborough

    North Bay Beach

    Dog Friendly

    One of two delightful, sandy beaches in the quintessential seaside resort town of Scarborough, offering a traditional day out to the seaside for families.

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  • Peasholm Park

    North Bay, Scarborough YO12 7TR

    Peasholm Park, Scarborough is a free attraction offering a historic and unique experience or the whole family to enjoy whatever the weather. Look forward to discovering a tranquil lake, a natural glen and pathways designed with an oriental theme.

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  • Rotunda Museum Scarborough
    Image Credits: Wilson44691 - CC0 1.0

    Rotunda Museum

    Vernon Rd
    Scarborough
    YO11 2PS

    01723 353665

    With 11,00-year-old artefacts, the Rotunda Museum is a marvellous day out for any history enthusiast. Entry for under 18-year-olds is free, making this attraction is ideal for any family wanting to uncover the Yorkshire coast.

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  • Lady wandering in an art gallery

    Scarborough Art Gallery

    The Crescent
    Scarborough
    Yorkshire
    YO11 2PW

    01723 374753

    This Italianate art gallery is home to Scarborough’s collection of fine art and makes for a fantastic outing for art and history lovers.

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  • Scarborough Castle, North Yorkshire

    Scarborough Castle

    Castle Rd
    Scarborough
    YO11 1HY

    0370 333 1181

    Standing on the fringes of Yorkshire’s coastline are the ruins of Scarborough Castle. With over 2,500 of turbulent history to explore, this attraction promises a fascinating day out.

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  • Scarborough North Bay Railway

    Scarborough North Bay Railway
    Burniston Rd
    Scarborough
    Yorkshire
    YO12 6PF

    01723 368791

    You’ll find this wonderful attraction in Scarborough’s bustling centre. The Scarborough North Bay Railway is ideal for anyone wanting to entertain the kids, with a steam engine and water rides.

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  • Scarborough OAT

    Scarborough Open Air Theatre

    Burniston Rd, Scarborough YO12 6PF

    01723 818111

    Built in 1930, Scarborough Open Air Theatre is set on an island in the middle of a lake and has played host to some of the biggest summer shows. Famous faces have performed here, including Elton John, Britney Spears, Noel Gallagher and Lionel Richie.

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  • SEA LIFE Scarborough

    SEA LIFE Scarborough

    Scalby Mills Rd
    Scarborough
    YO12 6RP

    01723 373414

    Get up close and personal with some of your favourite sea creatures and find out what it takes to rescue and release turtles back into the wild from the interactive Turtle Rescue Centre.

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