Scarborough is one of the Yorkshire coast’s most famous seaside towns, combining sweeping bays, historic landmarks and a long tradition of welcoming visitors. Watched over by the dramatic headland of Scarborough Castle, the town stretches around two contrasting bays, with the harbour and South Bay offering all the colour and energy of a classic seaside resort, while North Bay has a slightly calmer feel with its handsome seafront and open views. Scarborough is widely celebrated as Britain’s first seaside resort, with its popularity growing from the discovery of spa waters in the 17th century and expanding rapidly after the arrival of the railway in the 19th century.

The castle itself has dominated the headland for centuries and remains one of the town’s most striking features. English Heritage describes Scarborough Castle as a site with around 3,000 years of history, reflecting the area’s importance long before the town became a fashionable coastal destination. Its position between the North and South Bays gives it a commanding presence and some of the finest views on this stretch of coast.