Scarborough City Guide

About Scarborough – History and Culture

Scarborough, located on the North Sea coast of North Yorkshire, is one of Britain’s oldest seaside resorts. Its history stretches back to the Viking era, but the town’s modern identity was shaped by the discovery of a mineral spring in the 17th century, which made it a fashionable spa destination. The arrival of the railway in 1845 accelerated its growth, attracting thousands of visitors to its sandy beaches and dramatic cliff-top castle.

The town is steeped in cultural heritage, from its medieval castle ruins to Victorian architecture lining the South Bay. Scarborough has a vibrant arts scene, including the Scarborough Open Air Theatre and the Stephen Joseph Theatre, which premiered many of Alan Ayckbourn’s plays. The annual Scarborough Jazz Festival and folk traditions keep the cultural calendar lively.

Modern Scarborough balances tourism with a growing digital and creative economy. Its residents take pride in the town’s independent spirit, coastal lifestyle, and strong community ties. The town continues to evolve, with investment in waterfront regeneration and tourism infrastructure, while preserving its historical charm.

• Scarborough Castle (12th century, English Civil War site)
• Scarborough Spa (Victorian entertainment venue)
• St. Mary’s Church (historic parish church)
• Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre
• South Bay Beach and promenade
• North Bay Railway (heritage miniature line)
• Oliver’s Mount (motor racing circuit)
• Scarborough Art Gallery
• Rotunda Museum (geology and archaeology)

Did You Know? – Facts about Scarborough

Scarborough is a town of many records and unique features. It was the first seaside resort to introduce donkey rides on the beach, and its spa water was once marketed as a cure-all. The town’s castle has been besieged four times, more than any other British castle. Scarborough also claims the world’s oldest surviving cricket club (founded 1753) and the world’s oldest miniature railway (North Bay Railway, 1931).

Geographically, Scarborough sits on a peninsula with two main bays: North Bay and South Bay. The town’s climate is milder than inland Yorkshire due to the sea, but it can be blustery. Despite its tourism focus, Scarborough has a strong fishing heritage and still operates a working harbor.

• First seaside resort to offer donkey rides (19th century)
• Castle besieged four times – a British record
• World’s oldest cricket club (Scarborough CC, 1753)
• Oldest miniature railway still in operation (North Bay Railway)
• Hosts the world’s oldest motorcycle road race (Oliver’s Mount)
• Population approximately 62,000 (2021)
• Over 500 listed buildings
• ‘Scarborough Fair’ song is about a medieval event
• One of the first UK towns to have electric street lighting (1881)
• Home to the Scarborough Open Air Theatre (capacity 5,000)
• South Bay has a Blue Flag beach
• The Spa was built in 1839

Geography and Climate of Scarborough

Scarborough is situated on the North Yorkshire coast, approximately 40 miles northeast of York and 65 miles east of Leeds. The town is built on a headland that separates North Bay from South Bay, with the historic castle occupying the highest point. The underlying geology is primarily Jurassic limestone and sandstone, contributing to the dramatic cliffs that are part of the Cleveland Way National Trail.

Scarborough experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers (average 15-18°C) and cool winters (2-6°C). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with around 650mm annually, lower than the UK average. The town can be windy, especially along the coast, but enjoys some of the sunniest days in Yorkshire due to its eastern location. Snow is occasional but rarely heavy.

• Two main bays: North Bay and South Bay
• Headland with castle at 55 metres elevation
• Cleveland Way National Trail passes through
• Blue Flag beach on South Bay
• Jurassic Cliffs – part of the Heritage Coast
• Rainfall ~650mm per year (below UK average)
• Average July high ~19°C, January low ~2°C
• Wind from the North Sea common

Things to Do in Scarborough

Scarborough offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from traditional seaside fun to cultural pursuits. The two beaches are the main draw, with donkey rides, rock pooling, and watersports. Inland, the town’s parks and gardens provide peaceful retreats. The Open Air Theatre and Spa host concerts, comedy, and theatre year-round.

Food & Dining

Scarborough’s culinary scene blends classic fish and chips with modern gastropubs. The harbor area has several seafood restaurants, while the town centre offers international options including Indian, Italian, and Chinese. The local catch includes cod, haddock, and crab, often served with chips from traditional chippies. For fine dining, try Lanterna Ristorante or The Clockhouse.

• Fish and chips on the harbour (e.g., Harbour View)
• Seafood platters at Lanterna Ristorante
• Italian cuisine at Casa Roma
• Indian dishes at Rajpoot
• Afternoon tea at the Spa Cafe
• Sunday roasts at The Tunny Catch
• Scarborough Food & Drink Festival (annual)
• Local ales at Scarborough Brewery

Festivals & Events

The town hosts numerous annual events that attract visitors from across the UK. The Scarborough Jazz Festival (September) is a highlight, alongside the Scarborough Seafest (fish and chips championship) and the Scarborough Fair (medieval market). The Open Air Theatre’s summer concert series features major pop and rock acts. The Christmas market and New Year’s Eve fireworks bring seasonal cheer.

• Scarborough Jazz Festival (September)
• Scarborough Seafest (May)
• Scarborough Fair Medieval Market (August)
• Open Air Theatre summer concerts (June-August)
• Scarborough Food & Drink Festival (October)