Things to do in Scarborough

Scarborough Open Air Theatre is a mixed entertainment venue set on a lake in Scarborough’s Northstead Manor Gardens. Its stage is on an island in the middle of the water while the audience has seating on the eastern bank. Throughout the summer months Scarborough Open Air Theatre has a busy schedule of music, theater and sporting events.

South Bay Beach is the livelier of Scarborough’s main sandy stretches. The Castle Headland provides shelter from the northern winds, enabling excellent sunbathing conditions. Scarborough Castle stands at the northern part of the beach, while Scarborough Spa borders the south edge. Traverse the sandy bay in style with a traditional donkey ride.

North Bay Beach is a tranquil stretch of golden sand with restaurants, beach cabins and family activities. It is the quieter and wilder of Scarborough’s two main beaches, a little farther out from the town center. Trek with your family past the picturesque outcrops and rock pools to the main sandy area and headland.

Scarborough Spa is a vast complex offering many events and activities in an impressive heritage-listed cliffside building. As its name suggests, the site was built around the region’s spa waters, although it is now known for its Jazz Festival, Spa Orchestra, dances and concerts. Move around the complex to appreciate its excellent views of the sea.

With its scenic lake, pretty gardens and fun activities, Peasholm Park is one of the most impressive of Scarborough’s central parks. It covers an area of 40 acres (16 hectares) with views of the North Sea. Stroll around the circumference of the lake, which runs around a picturesque island.

Scarborough Castle is a set of fascinating ruins that remain from a 12th-century royal fortress. Built atop a cliff, the medieval castle commands panoramic views of the North Sea and the coastal town of Scarborough. Learn about the rich history of this spot, where evidence of Iron Age, Roman and Scandinavian settlements lies beside the main castle.

With activities that will get your heart pumping and areas to enjoy the picturesque coastline of Scarborough, Alpamare has attractions to suit all ages. Alpamare is a fun-filled waterpark that recreates typical alpine relaxation and recreation. Ride slides inspired by ski resorts, soothe the body in an iodine pool and look out over stunning views from a sun-soaked terrace.

Whether as an introduction to cricket or the culmination of a lifelong interest, Scarborough Cricket Club is a great place to watch a test match. Nestled in the midst of row houses, with a traditional pavilion built in 1895, the ground exudes the passion of its fans, who have played and celebrated the game of cricket here since its beginning. Take a break from the beach to participate in one of Britain’s most distinctive spectacles, the multi-day cricket test. Munch homemade pies and enjoy the atmosphere of the assembled crowd.

North Bay Railway is a complex with thrilling and innovative attractions alongside a historic miniature train network that chugs along Scarborough’s rugged coastline. Built over 80 years ago as a simple train line, the park now incorporates many other family activities.