Scarborough Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Scarborough Things to Do

Scarborough is a town in England that sits on the charming shores of the North Sea. With its vast history and amazing architecture, there are many attractions and things to do when visiting the city.

History

There are many historic structures in Scarborough. One of the most impressive bridges in England is the Spa Bridge. It was built because there was quite a deep descent to the sea-front from the St. Nicholas Cliff area of the town. Following its construction, it created a needed link across the valley to the town center. The bridge provides an excellent promenade to walk about and wonderful views for those visiting. In fact, the bridge proved so popular that a toll- booth was erected at the St. Nicholas Cliff end of the bridge.

Scarborough Castle is strategically positioned on a headland cliff, overlooking North and South Bay. The castle remains an impressive sight, even if only the ruins are visible. The keep and the extensive fortifications were constructed in the 12th century during the reign of Henry II. It was later subjected to sustained cannon fire during the English Civil War, and then heavy shelling by German warships in 1914. These battles severely damaged the castle, leaving just the present day ruins.

The Rotunda Museum, which opened in 1829, is Britain’s oldest geology museum. Its construction was based on a distinctive circular design by the geologist William Smith. The East Yorkshire coast is rich in Jurassic era fossils, and the Rotunda has a fascinating collection of these. It is also home to an interactive dinosaur exhibit and a Bronze Age skeleton, known as Gristhorpe Man.

Entertainment

While there are plenty of historic sites to visit in Scarborough, there are also things to do for those who want time away from the ruins and ancient structures. Those hoping to enjoy the countryside can take a ride on the North Bay Miniature Railway. The railway runs for a distance of just under a mile, between Peasholm Park and Scalby Mills stations, and provides scenic views of the North Bay area. Trains leave twice an hour from Peasholm Park, and the return trip costs just a little over three pounds.

There is also a place where lovers of the theater can go. Scarborough first had an open-air theater built in 1932, but by the 1980s this had fallen into disrepair. In 2010, the Queen opened the town’s new open air theater, and it s Europe’s largest open air theater.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Scarborough.