on 21st May 2026
The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Summer Trip to Scarborough
4 minutes well spent
Table of contents
Few seaside towns capture the essence of a traditional British summer holiday quite like Scarborough. With its sandy beaches, dramatic coastline, family attractions, historic landmarks and thriving food scene, Scarborough continues to be one of Yorkshire’s most popular holiday destinations. Whether you are planning a relaxing coastal escape, a family adventure or a countryside retreat with day trips to the coast, Scarborough offers something for every type of visitor.
Located on the stunning Yorkshire coast, Scarborough combines classic seaside charm with beautiful scenery, making it an ideal destination for summer holidays, long weekends and staycations.
Why Visit Scarborough?
Scarborough has remained a favourite holiday destination for generations, and it is easy to see why. The town offers a unique mix of traditional seaside entertainment, natural beauty and historic attractions, all within easy reach of the Yorkshire countryside.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Award-winning beaches
- Scenic coastal walks
- Family attractions and amusements
- Historic landmarks
- Excellent seafood restaurants and cafés
- Boat trips and outdoor activities
- Easy access to the North York Moors National Park
Scarborough is also perfectly positioned for exploring the wider Yorkshire coast, including nearby destinations such as Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Filey.
Top Tourist Attractions in Scarborough
Scarborough Castle
Standing high above the coastline, Scarborough Castle offers panoramic sea views and over 3,000 years of history. The castle ruins overlook both the North Bay and South Bay, making it one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the ancient walls, learn about Viking and medieval history, and enjoy some of the best photo opportunities on the Yorkshire coast.
Peasholm Park
One of Scarborough’s most loved attractions, Peasholm Park is a beautiful oriental-themed park perfect for families and couples alike. Visitors can hire rowing boats, enjoy peaceful walks around the lake, or watch the famous naval battle performances during the summer season.
SEA LIFE Scarborough
A popular attraction for families, SEA LIFE Scarborough is home to sharks, penguins, seals and hundreds of fascinating marine species. Interactive exhibits and underwater tunnels make it a fantastic rainy-day option or family day out.
Scarborough Open Air Theatre
During the summer months, Scarborough Open Air Theatre hosts major concerts and live performances from internationally recognised artists. Situated beside the lake and close to the North Bay, it has become one of the UK’s most impressive outdoor entertainment venues.
Alpamare UK
For visitors looking for water-based fun, Alpamare offers outdoor heated pools, slides, spa facilities and family-friendly attractions overlooking the coast.
The Must-See Beaches in Scarborough
Scarborough South Bay
South Bay is Scarborough’s traditional seaside beach, famous for its golden sands, amusements, donkey rides and lively promenade. It is ideal for families wanting a classic British seaside experience, complete with fish and chips, arcades and ice cream stalls.
Scarborough North Bay
For a quieter and more scenic beach experience, North Bay offers a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent views and opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding and coastal walks. The surrounding area also provides access to the Cleveland Way coastal path.
Cayton Bay
Located just outside Scarborough, Cayton Bay is popular with surfers and visitors looking for a less crowded beach. The dramatic cliffs and open coastline make it one of the most picturesque spots along the Yorkshire coast.
Filey Beach
A short drive from Scarborough, Filey Beach offers miles of golden sands and a quieter atmosphere, making it perfect for families, dog walkers and those wanting a more peaceful coastal day out.
Exploring Beyond the Coast
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Scarborough is its proximity to both the Yorkshire coastline and countryside. Visitors can spend the morning on the beach before heading into the rolling landscapes of the North York Moors for scenic drives, walking trails and traditional villages.
Popular nearby attractions include:
Stay at Low Moor Cottages
After a busy day exploring Scarborough and the Yorkshire coast, returning to peaceful countryside accommodation can make all the difference to your holiday experience. Low Moor Cottages offers the perfect balance between coastal adventure and rural relaxation.
Situated within easy reach of Scarborough, Low Moor Cottages provides comfortable self-catering accommodation surrounded by beautiful Yorkshire countryside. Guests can enjoy a quieter setting away from the busy seafront while still being close enough to experience all of Scarborough’s attractions and beaches.
Benefits of Staying at Low Moor Cottages
- Excellent location for exploring Scarborough and the Yorkshire coast
- Peaceful countryside surroundings
- Comfortable and spacious self-catering accommodation
- Ideal for couples, families and group holidays
- Easy access to walking routes and local attractions
- Convenient base for visiting Whitby, Filey and the North York Moors
- Private parking and relaxing outdoor spaces
Accommodation Options
Low Moor Cottages offers a selection of accommodation options designed to suit different group sizes and holiday styles. Whether you are planning a romantic break for two, a family holiday or a larger group getaway, the cottages provide modern comforts while maintaining a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy well-equipped kitchens, comfortable living spaces and scenic surroundings that make it easy to unwind after a day spent exploring the Yorkshire coast.
Plan Your Perfect Yorkshire Summer Escape
Scarborough remains one of the UK’s most loved coastal destinations for good reason. From sandy beaches and historic landmarks to countryside adventures and family attractions, there is no shortage of things to see and do during the summer months.
By staying at Low Moor Cottages, visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds, easy access to Scarborough’s vibrant seaside attractions alongside the peace and comfort of the Yorkshire countryside.