Be it is a day out with the family, a weekend getaway with that someone special or a family vacation, Scarborough is an ideal destination for you. Scarborough is the third largest city in North Yorkshire and one that holds much historical and cultural significance among the Englishmen. And yet, the life and culture of Scarborough has a very subtle, unassuming quality that never fails to draw your admiration.

With its proximity to the North Sea, the region has always been important from the point of view of defence. Scarborough could not escape the damages of the English Civil War and the First World War and had been slowly become a remnant of its original self. But strong initiative from the ‘Scarborians’ and financial support from the government helped revive the splendour of this coastal town.

The places to visit in Scarborough includes the Scarborough Castle, which sits like a mesmerising crown on the head of this city that has managed to keep most of its major historical sites in good condition. Visitors will find this region to be an enjoyable blend of old and new cultural Scarborough attractions.

The beaches of Scarborough are of course very popular with the tourists. North and South bay are connected by a wide promenade called the Marine drive. Visitors will find North Bay to be relatively more quiet and peaceful than the rest of the town.

The city is a cultural haven with a thriving theatre scene that supports and celebrates both professional and amateur writers and actors. You will find a variety of plays, musicals, dance performances and movies playing here at all times. Quite a few theatre festivals are held around the year. The city continues to be used as the location for many movies and Television dramas. Perhaps what stands out the most is Scarborough’s love of music. The Spa Complex is the last standing seaside orchestra in the United Kingdom. The Complex annually hosts a Jazz Festival. Rock and pop concerts are fairly common in this area and very nominally priced.

Scarborough is gradually establishing itself as a centre for art as well. Its museums, visual arts facilities, its writers and designers are together defining Scarborough as a coastal town bustling with culture.

Visitors will be intrigued to find significant amount of graffiti in certain areas. The city officially permits graffiti artists to let loose in two parts of town namely the sports grounds in Sainsbury and the Falsgrave Park wall. It is also very common to find restaurants and other businesses displaying posters or stickers of ‘Heroes Welcome Here’ – Scarborough very ardently supports the Armed Forces.

Tourists will find a fairly decent nightlife in the city. Older bars and clubs have been giving way to newer nightclubs such as Boleyn’s, Vivaz, The Barbican, Blue Lounge and many more.

Essential travel information and Scarborough tips for your visit

• Scarborough is a small town and it is possible to cycle your way around. However, parts of Scarborough are steep and hilly and may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• Some events such as concerts or outdoor activities might get postponed or cancelled due to weather. Confirm the schedule online or through telephone before planning a visit.
• Scarborough receives some cold winds and rain even during summer months, be sure to carry warm clothes when venturing out.