Scarborough, a charming seaside town in North Yorkshire, offers a wealth of activities and attractions that won’t cost you a penny. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, there are plenty of free things to do that will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful coastal town. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top free things to do in Scarborough.
1. Explore Scarborough’s Beaches
Scarborough is famous for its stunning beaches, perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure. There are two main beaches to explore: North Bay and South Bay.
North Bay:
Natural Beauty: North Bay is known for its natural beauty, with golden sands and rugged cliffs. It’s a quieter option, ideal for a peaceful walk or a spot of sunbathing.
Rock Pools: At low tide, explore the rock pools for a chance to see crabs, starfish, and other marine life.
Scarborough Castle Views: Enjoy spectacular views of Scarborough Castle from the beach.
South Bay:
Vibrant Atmosphere: South Bay is the busier of the two beaches, with a lively promenade and plenty of activities.
Golden Sands: Stretch out on the golden sands and enjoy the sun or take a refreshing dip in the sea.
Harbour: Take a stroll along the harbour and watch the boats come and go.
Both beaches are perfect for a leisurely walk, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
2. Visit Peasholm Park
Peasholm Park, located in the North Bay area, is a beautiful oriental-themed park that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.
Key Attractions:
Lake and Boating: The park features a large lake where you can watch boats or even hire a boat during the summer months.
Japanese Gardens: Explore the beautifully landscaped Japanese gardens, complete with ornamental bridges, waterfalls, and exotic plants.
Woodland Trails: Wander through the woodland trails and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great place for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
Naval Warfare Battle: If you visit during the summer, don’t miss the unique Naval Warfare Battle, a miniature sea battle reenactment on the lake.
Peasholm Park is free to enter and offers a range of activities for all ages, making it a perfect family outing.
3. Discover Scarborough Castle
While there is a charge to enter the main grounds of Scarborough Castle, you can still enjoy the stunning views and explore the surrounding areas for free.
Key Attractions:
Castle Road: Walk up Castle Road for breathtaking views of the town and the sea. The road leads you up to the castle and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Cliffside Views: Enjoy the dramatic cliffside views from the base of the castle. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a quiet moment to take in the scenery.
Exploring the areas around Scarborough Castle gives you a sense of the town’s history and offers stunning vantage points for photography.
4. Stroll Along Marine Drive
Marine Drive is a scenic coastal road that connects North Bay and South Bay. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, offering stunning sea views along the way.
Key Features:
Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the North Sea and Scarborough’s coastline. On clear days, you can see for miles.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, and other marine wildlife.
Benches and Viewing Points: There are plenty of benches and viewing points along the drive where you can sit and take in the scenery.
Marine Drive is a wonderful way to experience Scarborough’s natural beauty and is accessible to walkers, cyclists, and even prams.
5. Explore the Old Town
Scarborough’s Old Town is rich in history and character. Wandering through its narrow streets and alleys is like stepping back in time.
Key Attractions:
Historic Buildings: Admire the historic buildings, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Traditional Pubs: Pop into one of the traditional pubs for a peek at the interior and a sense of local culture. Many have historic features and interesting stories.
St. Mary’s Church: Visit St. Mary’s Church, a beautiful parish church with a rich history. It’s also the final resting place of Anne Brontë, one of the famous Brontë sisters.
The Old Town is full of charm and offers a glimpse into Scarborough’s past. It’s a great area to explore on foot and discover hidden gems.
6. Visit the Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre
The Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre is a fascinating place to learn about the town’s rich maritime history. It’s free to enter and packed with interesting exhibits.
Key Exhibits:
Historical Artifacts: View a variety of maritime artifacts, including ship models, navigational instruments, and fishing equipment.
Interactive Displays: Engage with interactive displays that bring to life the stories of local fishermen, shipbuilders, and sailors.
Temporary Exhibits: The centre hosts rotating temporary exhibits, focusing on different aspects of Scarborough’s maritime past.
The Maritime Heritage Centre is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history and offers a great educational experience for all ages.
7. Enjoy the Scarborough Art Gallery
The Scarborough Art Gallery, housed in a beautiful Italianate villa, is home to an impressive collection of fine art.
Key Features:
Permanent Collection: Explore the permanent collection, which includes works by local artists and pieces that depict the town and its surroundings.
Temporary Exhibitions: The gallery hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing contemporary art, photography, and more.
Family Activities: The gallery offers free family activities and workshops, making it a great place to visit with children.
Admission to the Scarborough Art Gallery is free for local residents and a small fee for visitors, but there are often free entry days, so it’s worth checking their schedule.
8. Walk the Cleveland Way
The Cleveland Way is a long-distance walking trail that runs along the stunning coastline of North Yorkshire. A section of this trail passes through Scarborough, offering some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
Key Features:
Coastal Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of the cliffs, beaches, and sea as you walk along the trail.
Wildlife: Look out for a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, butterflies, and wildflowers.
Historic Sites: The trail passes several historic sites, including the ruins of old castles and ancient settlements.
Walking a part of the Cleveland Way is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Scarborough and get some exercise at the same time.
9. Explore the South Cliff Gardens
The South Cliff Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens and spectacular sea views.
Key Features:
Italian Gardens: Explore the Italian Gardens with their formal layout, fountains, and statues.
Rose Gardens: Enjoy the colourful displays in the Rose Gardens, especially beautiful in the summer months.
Shelters and Benches: Relax in one of the many shelters or on a bench, taking in the views and the serene atmosphere.
The South Cliff Gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a quiet read, or a peaceful picnic.
10. Visit the Rotunda Museum
While the Rotunda Museum charges for entry, it frequently offers free days and special events where admission is waived.
Key Features:
Geological Collections: Discover fascinating displays of fossils, including dinosaur footprints and ancient sea creatures.
Archaeological Exhibits: Learn about the prehistoric and Roman history of Scarborough through a variety of artifacts and interactive exhibits.
William Smith’s Legacy: Discover the life and work of William Smith, the father of English geology, who designed the museum.
Check the Rotunda Museum’s website for details on free entry days and special events.
Conclusion
Scarborough is a treasure trove of free attractions and activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, rich history, or vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending a penny. So pack your bags, head to Scarborough, and make the most of all the free experiences this charming seaside town has to offer.
