Scarborough, a picturesque seaside town in North Yorkshire, is a fantastic destination for families with children. The town offers a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to keep kids entertained and parents happy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best child-friendly activities and attractions in Scarborough.
1. Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary
The Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary is a must-visit for families. It offers an up-close look at a wide variety of marine life, from sharks and rays to adorable seals.
Key Attractions:
Ocean Tunnel: Walk through the incredible Ocean Tunnel and watch as sharks, rays, and other sea creatures swim overhead. It’s an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Seal Hospital: Visit the Seal Hospital to learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to rescue and rehabilitate injured seals. You can even see the seals being cared for up close.
Interactive Rockpool: Kids can get hands-on with marine life at the interactive rockpool. They’ll have the chance to touch starfish, crabs, and other creatures while learning about their habitats.
Feeding Times: Don’t miss the feeding times and talks, where you can learn more about the animals and watch them being fed.
The SEA LIFE Sanctuary provides a fun and educational experience that highlights the importance of marine conservation.
2. Peasholm Park
Peasholm Park is a beautiful, oriental-themed park that offers a variety of activities for children of all ages.
Key Features:
Boating Lake: Hire a pedalo or rowing boat and explore the tranquil boating lake. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have some fun on the water.
Naval Warfare Battle: During the summer months, the park hosts the unique Naval Warfare Battle, a miniature sea battle re-enactment that’s been a tradition for over 90 years. It’s a spectacle that kids will love.
Woodland Walks: Take a stroll through the park’s woodland trails, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Japanese Gardens: Explore the beautifully landscaped Japanese gardens, complete with bridges, waterfalls, and exotic plants.
Peasholm Park is free to enter and offers a relaxing and enjoyable day out for the whole family.
3. Scarborough Beach
Scarborough is home to two stunning beaches, North Bay and South Bay, both offering plenty of family-friendly activities.
North Bay:
Rock Pools: At low tide, North Bay reveals fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life. Kids can spend hours exploring and discovering crabs, starfish, and other sea creatures.
Surfing: For older children and teenagers, North Bay is a popular spot for surfing. There are local surf schools that offer lessons for beginners.
South Bay:
Golden Sands: South Bay is perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Amusements and Arcades: The South Bay promenade is lined with amusement arcades and traditional seaside attractions, including rides, games, and treats like ice cream and candyfloss.
Both beaches are ideal for a fun-filled day by the sea.
4. Alpamare Waterpark
Alpamare Waterpark is a thrilling destination that promises a day of excitement and adventure for the whole family.
Key Attractions:
Water Slides: The waterpark features a variety of water slides, from the gentle Snow Storm to the adrenaline-pumping Black Run. There’s something for all ages and thrill levels.
Wave Pool: Enjoy the waves in the huge wave pool, perfect for kids who love to splash around.
Infinity Pool: Relax in the heated outdoor infinity pool with stunning views of the sea.
Children’s Area: The dedicated children’s area has smaller slides and water play features designed for younger kids.
Alpamare Waterpark is a fantastic place for families to cool off and have fun.
5. Scarborough Castle
Scarborough Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history and provides a great day out for families.
Key Attractions:
Exploring the Ruins: Kids will love exploring the castle’s ancient ruins, climbing the towers, and imagining life in medieval times.
Interactive Exhibits: The visitor centre features interactive exhibits that bring the castle’s history to life.
Stunning Views: The castle’s hilltop location offers breathtaking views of the town and coastline, perfect for family photos.
Events and Activities: Throughout the year, the castle hosts family-friendly events, including medieval reenactments, treasure hunts, and storytelling sessions.
Scarborough Castle combines history and adventure, making it a hit with children and adults alike.
6. North Bay Railway
The North Bay Railway is a delightful miniature railway that takes passengers on a scenic journey along the coast.
Key Features:
Scenic Route: The train ride offers beautiful views of the North Bay and is a relaxing way to see the sights.
Historic Trains: Kids will enjoy riding on the charming, historic trains that have been in operation since 1931.
Sky Trail Adventure: For a bit more adventure, visit the Sky Trail Adventure next to the railway. It’s a high ropes course that offers an exciting challenge for older children and teenagers.
The North Bay Railway provides a unique and enjoyable experience for families.
7. Scarborough Museums Trust
Scarborough Museums Trust manages several museums that offer engaging and educational experiences for children.
Key Museums:
Scarborough Art Gallery: The art gallery hosts family-friendly exhibitions and interactive activities that encourage creativity and learning.
Rotunda Museum: Known for its geological collections, the Rotunda Museum features dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and hands-on exhibits that are sure to captivate kids.
Both museums offer free entry for children and have regular events and workshops designed specifically for families.
8. Playdale Farm Park
Located just a short drive from Scarborough, Playdale Farm Park is an excellent day out for families with young children.
Key Features:
Animal Encounters: Kids can get up close with a variety of farm animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, and more. There are also opportunities to feed the animals.
Play Areas: The farm park features indoor and outdoor play areas with slides, climbing frames, and soft play equipment.
Tractor Rides: Enjoy a tractor ride around the farm, a highlight for many young visitors.
Picnic Areas: There are plenty of picnic spots where families can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Playdale Farm Park offers a hands-on, educational experience that kids will love.
9. Crescent Gardens
Crescent Gardens is a beautiful public park that’s perfect for a relaxing family outing.
Key Features:
Landscaped Gardens: Enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens, filled with colourful flowers and lush greenery.
Open Spaces: The open grassy areas are great for picnics, playing games, or just relaxing in the sun.
Bandstand: The bandstand often hosts free concerts and performances, providing live entertainment for visitors.
Crescent Gardens is a peaceful spot where families can unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
10. Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park
Just a short drive from Scarborough, Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park offers a wonderful day out for animal lovers.
Key Features:
Bird Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and aviaries, home to a variety of birds including parrots, owls, and peacocks.
Animal Park: Meet friendly farm animals, including goats, alpacas, and donkeys. There are also exotic animals like meerkats and reptiles.
Nature Trail: Follow the nature trail through woodland and wildflower meadows, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Play Area: Kids can let off steam in the play area, which features swings, slides, and climbing frames.
Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park offers a mix of adventure and education, making it a great family day out.
Conclusion
Scarborough is packed with child-friendly activities and attractions that cater to all ages and interests. From exploring historic castles and museums to enjoying the natural beauty of the beaches and parks, there’s something for everyone. These activities provide endless opportunities for fun, learning, and creating lasting memories.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, Scarborough is the perfect destination for a family adventure. Book your stay in one of Scarborough’s welcoming holiday lets and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
