Language: English
Currency: Pound Sterling
Time Zone: GMT
Tipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required.
Once a fishing port, Scarborough has now evolved into Yorkshire's favourite seaside resort boasting a fantastic setting above two beautiful white-sand bays. It's come a long way since the 17th century, after its waters were deemed to have medicinal powers. After that, an influx of healing hopefuls ensued and by the 18th century the sea was dotted with bathers taking part in yet another latest craze.
These days the sea is still full of bobbing swimmers (weather permitting) and the town is still a major holiday resort. Overlooked by the crumbling 12th century remains of Scarborough Castle, Scarborough coach trips offer all the attractions you would expect of an original seaside town. Snooze on a deckchair on the sand, admire the town's fine gardens, take a stroll along the elegant promenade or drag yourself away from the beach to try out the town's lively amusements. Wander through the streets to admire Scarborough's Victorian architecture and imagine the town in its heyday splendour before browsing the staple souvenir shops along the promenade.
A variety of coach trips to Scarborough are available, often combining excursions to other top-spots in Yorkshire like medieval York, Whitby with its eerie cliff-top Abbey, a journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway or coach tour through the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. All packages include return coach travel, accommodation at a good 3 or 4* hotel in the town on either a breakfast or half board basis and allow for some time at leisure.
Tourist office
To find out more about visiting Scarborough, check out the official tourism website at discoveryorkshirecoast.com
There are a few places in and around Scarborough that are well worth a visit. Here are our top few:
Scarborough Castle
Head to the Castle Headland to admire the beautiful views and explore the ancient castle. There is also a visitor centre to help you get the most out of your visit.
Boat Trip
There is a boat trip for everyone here; if you fancy a thrilling ride there's the option of a speed boat, but for a more relaxing or sedate journey consider one of the pleasure steamers. Head down to the harbour and see which boat takes your fancy.
Peasholm Park
Visit this unique park which can be found close to the beach but has a lake with a waterfall and Japanese pagoda! Whilst there why not take a boat ride on the lake or take a stroll on one of the new woodland walks. If you happen to be there on a Monday or Thursday make sure you do not miss the 'Naval Warfare' show.
The Beaches
If the weather allows then why not head to one of the many beaches that Scarborough has to offer. Take your pick from the lively South Bay Beach to the quieter North Bay Beach or head out of town to Cayton Bay. Be advised though that there is a walk down to the beach!
To help you have an enjoyable holiday in Scarborough, take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
Health and Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended by all our tour operators and for some operators it is a condition of booking. When choosing a travel insurance please ensure it fully covers all your personal requirements including pre-existing medical conditions, cancellation charges, medical expenses, and repatriation in the event of accident or illness. As a British citizen you will obviously be entitled to free emergency health care on the NHS.
If you are visiting England from outside the United Kingdom and fall ill or are involved in an accident and are from an EU country or Switzerland, you can use a valid EHIC issued by your home country to access healthcare. Please note this is not an alternative to travel insurance. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised for nationalities planning on visiting the UK.
For the latest information and travel advice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), please click here
If you need to contact the emergency services whilst in the UK simply dial 999 or 112 to ask for an ambulance.
Crime
The United Kingdom is a safe place to visit, however, as with all countries please exercise common sense. Petty crime can occur so take your usual precautions such as not leaving luggage unattended, beware of pickpockets in tourist areas and leave valuables in the hotel safe.
Local Laws and Customs
Queuing is a British Institution - jump a queue at your own risk!
If you are visiting from outside of the United Kingdom, it is wise to check customs requirements before you travel. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. If you go over your allowances, you may have to pay tax or duty. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel.
UK Entry Requirements
When travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man you may need to show a Border Force officer a document confirming your identity. In most cases an official form of identification such as a driver's license or an armed forces identity card will be ok. However, some airlines will insist you show a passport so please check before you travel.
If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein you can enter the UK with one of the following identity documents: a passport, an Irish passport card or a national identity card issued by an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, if you’re eligible to use one. The identity document should be valid for the whole of your stay.
If you’re from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. You may also need a visa, depending on which country you’re from. Please check here if a visa is required before you travel.