A classic – perhaps the classic – northern seaside destination, Scarborough on the North Yorkshire coast has been attracting day trippers and holidaymakers for hundreds of years. Its rich history began when the land it sits upon became the target of a Viking raider named Thorgils Skarthi, who founded the town in 966AD as Skarðaborg.
The medieval fortress of Scarborough Castle was built for Henry II in the 12th century, and the town developed its reputation as a spa resort in the 1660s. Today, the resort’s two most prominent beaches on North and South Bays are split by the castle headland. The Spa Cliff Lift (built in 1875 and the first funicular railway in Great Britain) is still in operation on South Bay. At one time there were five cliff lifts, but now only two remain, both on South Bay.
Where to stay in Scarborough
The best campervan sites in the UK will provide excellent locations for taking in the surrounding area and facilities to match. For those of you thinking of pitching up in Scarborough, there are some good options to consider.
Filey Brigg Country Park allows you to enjoy lovely views of the coast and Filey Bay. The well-serviced park is set in nine acres, with an on-site shop, amenity blocks and children’s play area.
Jacobs Mount Caravan Park is a peaceful site on the outskirts of Scarborough with easy access to the Forge Valley National Nature Reserve. The fully serviced touring pitches are all-weather and hardstanding.
You can also consider Lebberston Caravan Park – it’s a quiet, spacious park between Scarborough and Filey, with a range of pitches including grass, hardstanding and super pitches. Seasonal pitches are also available.
What to do in Scarborough on Day 1
9am – Harbour and Castle
Get your bearings with a wander around the harbour in the oldest part of Scarborough, before moving on to the Castle Headland. Pass Luna Park theme park and follow the sea-wall heritage trail towards the castle ruins. Explore the 16 acres of the headland and walk through the impressive castle gatehouse.
11am – St Mary’s Church
From the castle, it’s a short walk to St Mary’s Church, which dates back to 1150 and has a rich history. The building suffered damage during the English Civil War when it was used as the parliamentary base for the troops to launch an attack on the castle; the stained glass windows are 19th-century replicas. Nevertheless, it is an impressive church and the resting place for novelist and poet Anne Brontë.
1pm – Sea food, eat food
Return to the harbour for fantastic seafood with a view at Lookout on the Pier, where you can try dishes such as the Lookout Hot Seafood Platter, Lindisfarne Oysters and Alex’s Special Chowder.
3pm – Peasholm Park
Walk back towards North Bay and take in the beach views before moving inland to the beautiful oriental-themed Peasholm Park with its boating lake and Japanese pagoda. Cross the bridge to enjoy delightful trees and gardens, along with plenty of birdlife. The park has a putting green, mini golf course and several pretty walking trails.
7pm – Burger bites
Head into town for an appetite-busting treat at Cowshed Burgers – craft beers and speciality burgers, such as Korean and Truffle, along with classic cheese, hotdogs and a range of sides. Yum!
What to do on Day 2
10am – So near so Spa!
Take in the historic and impressive Spa Bridge and pretty South Cliff Gardens with their smart flowerbeds and maze of wooded paths, before stopping to view the Scarborough Spa. This entertainment and conference centre is housed in an exquisite Grade II-listed Victorian building. The Scarborough Spa Orchestra Gala Concerts take place here throughout August and September.
12pm – Take the lift
At £2.60 for a return fare, the wonderful Victorian Central Tram cliff railway is not only one of the oldest in the UK, it also offers tremendous value. The railway is between St Nicholas Gardens and the Grand Hotel, and runs between the Foreshore Road and St Nicholas Street – ideal for visiting the beach front.
1.30pm – Plant base
Enjoy a meat-free lunch at the pretty Love Brew Café. This dog-friendly café serves homemade vegan food such as Chilli Bean Nachos and Tempeh & Avocado Sandwich.
3pm – Mount of Oliver’s
Check out the far-reaching views at Oliver’s Mount before going to the Oliver’s Mount Road Racing Circuit. A range of motorcycling events take place here. Even better, you can stay on site because the circuit has its own campsite in the middle of the action.
7pm – Lifeboat Fish Bar
You can’t spend time in Scarborough without visiting a chippy, and Lifeboat Fish Bar near the harbour is one of the best – it’s well-priced, too. Don’t spare the vinegar!
After a different type of destination for a short break? Then, how about considering spending a weekend in Norwich? It was once the biggest city in England, outside of London. Or alternatively, you could look at heading to Dundee – it’s a destination that has long held the title of Scotland’s sunniest city.
After some more ideas for a weekend getaway? Then head to our Go Campervanning: Weekend Getaways section for more great ideas!
Lead image: Getty Images/iStockphoto
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