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Local Favourites

My Scarborough Recommendations

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Welcome

Introduction

One of the best parts of my job is helping guests discover the best of Scarborough. After living here for years and welcoming countless visitors to The Barrington, I've gathered plenty of local knowledge about what's worth your time. Here are my personal recommendations for making the most of your Scarborough stay - from the must-see attractions to the hidden gems that most tourists miss.

Beach Days

Scarborough is blessed with two beautiful but very different beaches:


South Bay Beach


Just one minute from our door! This bustling golden sand beach is perfect for traditional seaside fun. The sheltered bay makes it ideal for swimming, and you'll find donkey rides, ice cream parlours, amusement arcades, and boat trips all along the seafront. Don't miss the working harbour where you can watch fishing boats bringing in their catch.


North Bay Beach


A 15-minute walk from The Barrington, North Bay offers a more peaceful beach experience. The Blue Flag beach is pristine, with colourful beach huts available to hire. It's perfect for those seeking a quieter day by the sea or water sports enthusiasts.

Historic Highlights

Scarborough Castle


Just a 5-minute walk uphill from us, the castle offers spectacular panoramic views across both bays. Dating back to the 12th century, it's rich in history and perfect for a morning explore. The English Heritage site includes a fascinating exhibition about the castle's 3,000-year history.


Old Town


We're right in the heart of it! Scarborough's Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and independent shops. Take time to wander and discover hidden yards, quirky shops, and centuries of history. The Old Town Hall and Market Hall are particularly worth visiting.


Rotunda Museum


One of the world's first purpose-built museums, opened in 1829. It houses fascinating geological and archaeological exhibits, including dinosaur fossils found along the Yorkshire coast.

Family Attractions

SEA LIFE Scarborough


Located in North Bay, this aquarium takes you on a journey from the Yorkshire coast to tropical oceans, with everything from local fish species to sharks and sea turtles.


Peasholm Park


A beautiful Japanese-themed park with a boating lake where you can hire dragon-shaped pedal boats. During summer, don't miss the Naval Warfare display - a unique miniature sea battle that's been running since 1927.


North Bay Railway


This miniature railway has been running since 1931 and takes you on a charming journey from Peasholm Park to Scalby Mills. Children love the train ride, and there's a Sky Trail adventure course at the station too.


Alpamare Water Park


A modern water park with slides, pools, and a spa section for adults. Great for families, especially on rainy days.

Historic Highlights

Stephen Joseph Theatre


Home to Alan Ayckbourn premieres and a varied programme of drama, music, and film. The theatre is housed in a beautiful Art Deco former cinema building.


Scarborough Spa


This historic venue hosts concerts, shows, and the famous Scarborough Spa Orchestra - the UK's last remaining seaside orchestra.


Open Air Theatre


Europe's largest open-air theatre hosts big-name concerts throughout the summer. Previous performers include The Script, Rag n Bone man, and Texas . Check what's on during your stay!

Food & Drink

Best Fish & Chips

As a seaside town, Scarborough takes fish and chips seriously! My personal recommendations are:


  • The Harbour View Café - fantastic fresh fish with harbour views
  • North Bay Fisheries - consistently excellent traditional fish and chips
  • Lifeboat Fish Bar - a local favourite for good reason

Coffee & Cake

  • Yay Coffee! - artisan coffee and amazing cakes just around the corner
  • The Harbour Bar- beachfront café with panoramic views
  • Greensmith & Thackwray - speciality coffee and homemade treats

Dining Out

  • Gianni's - exceptional Italian cuisine
  • Lezzet Mediterranean bistro
  • Scarborough Tandoori - a family Indian Restaurant
  • El-Gringo's - Fabulous Mexican food.

Pubs & Bars

  • The Merchant - craft beers and cocktails in a stylish setting
  • The Leeds Arms - traditional pub with local ales
  • The Courtyard - lovely beer garden for sunny days
  • The Frigate - local craft beers in their taproom

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Discover

Exploring Further Afield

Aerial view of Whitby Abbey ruins on a green hill overlooking the North Sea. Sunny day with blue sky.

Whitby

Just 20 miles north, this Gothic gem is famous for its abbey ruins, connection to Dracula, jet jewellery, and excellent fish and chips. The drive along the coast road is spectacular.

Coastal view: buildings on a cliffside overlooking a calm blue sea, with a distant cliff in the background, under a blue sky

Robin Hood's Bay

A picturesque fishing village built into the cliffside with narrow winding streets and a smuggling history. Perfect for a half-day trip.

Coastal vista with purple heather, green fields, and a calm sea under a partly cloudy sky.

North York Moors

The stunning national park begins just outside Scarborough. Perfect for walking, cycling, or scenic drives through heather moorland and pretty villages.

Cliffs overlook a turquoise sea under a blue sky. White chalk cliffs are topped with green grass.

Flamborough Head

Dramatic white cliffs and a lighthouse, with excellent bird watching opportunities at RSPB Bempton Cliffs nearby.

Claire's Hidden Gems

These are the special places I recommend to guests looking for something off the typical tourist trail:


Hayburn Wyke - a secluded cove with a waterfall, reached by a beautiful woodland walk


Italian Gardens - beautiful terraced gardens with stunning views, often missed by visitors


South Cliff Gardens - recently restored Victorian gardens with winding paths and sea views


Scarborough Market Hall - recently renovated with independent food vendors and local crafts


Forge Valley Woods - ancient woodland with a boardwalk trail and abundant wildlife

Plan Your Perfect Stay

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a week, I'm happy to help you plan an itinerary that makes the most of your time in Scarborough. Just ask when you arrive, and I'll share my local knowledge to ensure you don't miss the experiences that will make your stay special.