At South Bay, visitors will find a sandy beach stretching nearly 1.5 kilometres, where the salty sea breeze mingles with the scent of seaweed and freshly fried fish from nearby eateries. The sounds of seagulls and children playing fill the summer air when temperatures average 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. North Bay, quieter and less developed, features rugged cliffs where the crashing waves create a rhythmic soundtrack. Along its promenade, amusement arcades hum with laughter and the chatter of families enjoying attractions like the Scarborough Open Air Theatre. The town’s fish and chip shops serve fresh North Sea haddock and cod, with prices typically between EUR 6 and 12 per portion, providing a staple taste of the coast.
The South Bay spans about 1.5 kilometres with fine golden sand that feels soft underfoot. This area bustles during summer, with the promenade lined by cafes on The Esplanade where the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods mixes with sea air. The Scarborough Spa complex sits atop St Nicholas Cliff, its grand architecture visible against the sky. Lifeguards patrol during peak months, while beach chair rentals invite visitors to relax by the water. The South Bay’s waters, averaging 14 to 16 degrees Celsius in summer, are popular for swimming and paddleboarding, often accompanied by the gentle splash of waves and seagull calls.
North Bay presents a more tranquil setting, where the sharp scent of salt and seaweed complements the rugged cliffs. Its shingle beach attracts those seeking quieter coastal walks and scenic views. Along Marine Drive, family-friendly amusements such as mini-golf and arcades buzz softly with activity. The Scarborough Open Air Theatre, one of the UK’s largest, adds cultural richness to the bay, with performances echoing across the seascape during summer months.
The castle was constructed by William le Gros in 1136 and later expanded by King Henry II during the 12th century to defend against Scottish and Viking attacks. It withstood several sieges, notably during the English Civil War in the 17th century when much of it was damaged. Today, visitors encounter the castle’s weathered ruins, including the keep, curtain walls, and gatehouse, all framed by panoramic views over Scarborough’s town centre and the North Sea horizon. The salty breeze and cries of seabirds add atmosphere to the historic site.
English Heritage manages the site, which is open year-round with entry fees around EUR 8 for adults and EUR 5 for children. Guided tours and detailed displays shed light on the castle’s architecture and turbulent past. The castle is a 10-minute walk from Scarborough railway station and town centre, with wheelchair-accessible paths leading to key viewpoints.
Tours in yorkshire
Our Tours are the only way to see Yorkshire and its beauty in a single day with complete privacy, security and comfort onboard the magnificent Mercedes Benz V Class accompanied by Andrew the guide. Andrew always places your enjoyment of the day before everything else. No other Tour in the glorious north of England focuses so much on the overall quality of each and every guests experience. We believe that your vacation is the most valuable part of your year. We respect every minute of your vacation time, our philosophy is to make every moment of your time on vacation worthwhile. Before founding our company Andrew led a tour in another part of the UK that was ranked by TripAdvisor Travellers choice as the best tour in England and tenth best tour in the world. Lastly and most importantly every tour guarantees the sighting of at least a couple of very woolly Sheep!
From the Roman Empire to the Industrial Revolution, via Vikings, the Norman Conquest and the Wars of the Roses, the history of York is the history of England. This city has been at the heart of the action for nearly 2000 years. With York’s Hidden History, you’ll be at the heart of the action too, in the expert company of our local guides. Using knowledge and humour they'll tell the city's secrets whilst showing you the famous sights. On our Royal Route we’ll ramble regally through 2000 years of amazing history. Starting outside the Yorkshire Museum, in the shadow of the city’s ancient stone walls, we’ll explain how a Roman military outpost turned into imperial Eboracum. Making our way across the city via York Minster, The Shambles, Jorvik, and Clifford's Tower, we’ll tell tales of conquests and massacres, empresses and queens, before finishing our walk on King's Staith Landing, where many royal visitors arrived in York.
The Tours are the only way to see Yorkshire and its beauty in a single day with complete privacy, security and comfort onboard the magnificent Mercedes Benz V Class accompanied by one of the expert guides. The guides always place your enjoyment of the day before everything else. No other Tour in the glorious north of England focuses so much on the overall quality of each and every guests experience. We believe that your vacation is the most valuable part of your year. We respect every minute of your vacation time, the philosophy is to make every moment of your time on vacation worthwhile. Before founding our company Andrew Ward led a tour in another part of the UK that was ranked by TripAdvisor Travellers choice as the best tour in England and tenth best tour in the world. Lastly and most importantly every tour guarantees the sighting of at least a couple of very woolly Sheep!
Discover Yorkshire with Greg – Your Personal Guide to the Heart of the Moors. Step aboard a truly personal, private tour of North Yorkshire with Greg, your guide for the day. Follow the itinerary or change it to your own. For between 1-7 guests, Greg offers a relaxed, friendly experience that you won’t find with larger tour operators, Greg brings the region's history and culture to life with fascinating stories and insider knowledge. The highlight of the day is a scenic heritage steam train ride from the village of Goathland—best known as Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter films. (included). Your day will be filled with stunning landscapes, charming villages and, of course, the breathtaking Whitby where you will enjoy some free time. Whether you're snapping photos of the rolling moors, or simply chatting with Greg about local life, you'll find this tour is as much about the journey as it is about the destination – a relaxed and engaging experience for your private group.
Here’s what’s included A welcome Hooting Owl rum and mixer of your choice. A tour of the distillery Guided tastings of our Yorkshire rums Learn the history and myth of Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins and the origins of The Hooting Owl. Tasting samples our Hooting Owl Rum.
Step into the world of the Brontës on this very small-group day tour from York. Greg, your friendly and enthusiastic guide, will take you through the beautiful Yorkshire countryside to Brontë country. The first stop is at the location of Thorpe Green Hall where Anne was a Governess, then after a short comfort break we continue to Saltaire and the historic Salt Mills. Greg then takes us to attend the Brontë birthplace (entrance included) where Greg offers a personal and engaging tour at the family home where the famous siblings grew up. We then travel to Haworth, here enjoy two free hours to wander the cobbled streets, browse charming shops, enjoy a coffee, and visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum. The day concludes with a trip up Penistone Hill with sweeping views toward Top Withens. Entrance fees to the Brontë birthplace and Parsonage Museum are included, making for an engaging & memorable day. Gregs style is both informal but highly informative into the lives of these famous Sisters.
Scarborough
Location of Scarborough
The Magpie Café, situated on the South Bay’s West Pier, is a local favourite known for generous portions and quality ingredients. The smell of frying fish and chips fills the air, often mingling with the salty sea breeze. Prices range from EUR 6 to EUR 12 per meal, depending on portion size and extras such as mushy peas or curry sauce. Most shops open daily from 11:00 to 21:00, with the busiest times at lunch and early evening.
For those preferring a sit-down meal, restaurants along the South Bay seafront serve fish and chips with views of the waves rolling in. Weekends and school holidays bring crowds, so arriving early or booking ahead is recommended. Takeaway options are popular for enjoying fish and chips on the beach or in the town’s green spaces like Peasholm Park, where the scent of the sea blends with freshly cooked food.
The Scarborough railway station is centrally located and served by Northern Rail, offering direct routes from York (around 1 hour 20 minutes), Leeds (about 2 hours), and Manchester (approximately 3 hours with one change). Train tickets from London King's Cross to Scarborough usually range from EUR 40 to 70 one way when booked in advance.
By car, Scarborough lies roughly 50 kilometres east of York via the A64 and A165 roads, with a journey time near 1 hour 15 minutes. Several town centre car parks are available, including Castle Car Park near Scarborough Castle, charging around EUR 2.50 per hour. Local bus services connect Scarborough with nearby towns and villages, while within the town, routes link South Bay, North Bay, and key attractions.
During these months, daytime temperatures typically range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, suitable for beach activities and sightseeing. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, with higher accommodation prices often exceeding EUR 120 per night and crowded attractions. Spring and early autumn provide fewer visitors and moderate weather, great for walking along South Bay and North Bay or touring Scarborough Castle.
Seasonal highlights include summer concerts at the Scarborough Open Air Theatre, the Scarborough Fair Festival in July, and the annual Seafood Festival in September. Visitors should check event schedules ahead to plan visits accordingly.
"Scarborough’s charm lies in the salty breeze weaving between its twin bays, where the ancient castle watches over fishermen’s boats and the scent of crispy fish and chips mingles with sea spray—a timeless taste of Yorkshire’s rugged coastal soul."
Luca Moretti - Coastal Heritage Historian
The main Tourist Information Centre is on St Nicholas Street, open daily from 09:30 to 17:00, providing maps, brochures, and ticket bookings. Public toilets are available near South Bay, North Bay beaches, and Scarborough Castle, with some charging a small fee of about EUR 0.50.
The town includes wheelchair-friendly promenades along The Esplanade and designated parking bays. Local buses have ramps, and taxis are available for door-to-door service. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses on Vernon Road to mid-range hotels on the seafront, with prices from EUR 50 up to over EUR 150 per night depending on season and location.
The town’s fish market, held several mornings per week near Scarborough Harbour, is a lively place to see fresh catches and chat with local fishermen. Early visitors can sample seafood at reasonable prices.
Money-saving tips include purchasing the York City Pass, which can include discounts on regional tours and attractions. Visiting on weekdays helps avoid weekend crowds and surcharges. For a local touch, try afternoon tea at a traditional café away from the seafront or attend a performance at the Scarborough Spa Theatre on St Nicholas Cliff.
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