Home Search by budget Destinations Beaches Interactive map Services Booking Collections Ratings VIP Club
Find flights Book transfer
Home / Destinations / Scarborough

Scarborough

United Kingdom · Coast · GBP · 54.282500, -0.407600
Family friendly 5.1/10 · Rank 2126 of 2 709
Best season: June-September

Best for

Suitable for families with children, lovers of traditional British seaside holidays, surfers and anyone wanting to experience the atmosphere of a classic English seaside resort.

Best season

June-September

Daily budget
$150.00 (≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 119 GBP)
For 7 days
$1 050.00 (≈ 88 116 ₽ · ≈ 830 GBP)
Scarborough is one of England's oldest seaside resorts with two sandy beaches and a picturesque castle on a cliff. The town is known for its Victorian architecture and traditional pier entertainment. It is a popular destination for family holidays and history lovers.
Summer
28.0°C
Winter
3.0°C
Sea
16.0°C
Search by budget Atmosphere Pros and cons Climate Sea and beach Hazards Attractions Excursions Prices FAQ
Search by budget
Enter an amount — we'll show destinations within your reach
Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Scarborough residents are friendly and proud of their town. Many tourists and holidaymakers, but the town retains the authentic atmosphere of a classic English resort.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Traditional British seaside resort
  • Scenic beaches and castle
  • Varied entertainment for families
  • Affordable prices
  • Good base for exploring Yorkshire

Cons

  • Cool water even in summer
  • Frequent rain and winds
  • Limited nightlife
  • Crowded in high season
  • Transport needed to get around the region
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
15.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
17.9°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
28.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
5.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
7.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
3.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
14.5°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
16.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
October-January
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gradual
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
South Bay
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

The beach is safe for swimming, but the water is cool even in summer. A wetsuit is recommended for prolonged time in the water.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are not found in the swimming area, the bottom is sandy

Corals and reefs — details

  • No coral reefs in the North Sea

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear in summer months
  • Usually harmless but can cause mild stinging

Sharks — details

  • Sharks in North Sea coastal waters do not pose a danger to swimmers
Attractions

Scarborough Castle

Medieval fortress on a rocky headland with panoramic views of the town and two bays

Peasholm Park

Scenic park with a lake, Japanese garden and boating station, popular for family outings

South Bay

Traditional seaside resort with a sandy beach, pier and promenade with cafes and shops

North Bay

Quieter beach with views of the castle, popular with surfers and walkers

Scarborough Museum

Museum with exhibits on the town's history including maritime and archaeology

Best areas

South Bay

Traditional seaside resort with beach, pier and promenade, popular with families

North Bay

Quieter area with beach and castle views, popular with surfers

Old Town

Historic fishing quarter with narrow streets, pubs and seafood restaurants

Town Centre

Close to the market, shops and main attractions

Must-try food

Fish and Chips

Classic British dish of battered fried fish with chips, especially popular on the coast

Crab

Fresh crab from the North Sea, served in salads, sandwiches or as a standalone dish

Ice Cream

The coast has many ice cream parlours with a variety of flavours including local specialties

Meat Pie

Traditional English pie with beef and vegetables

Ale

Scarborough is known for its breweries and traditional English ales

Where to go next

York

Historic city with a Gothic cathedral and medieval walls, 50 minutes by train

Whitby

Scenic coastal town with an abbey and beach, 30 minutes by car

North York Moors National Park

Scenic hills and villages with rich nature, 30 minutes by car

Filey

Coastal town with a beach and castle, 20 minutes by car

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Дарэм Тис Вэлли Аэропорт (MME).
Check flight prices Putivator
Compare prices from 800+ airlines — Putivator
Search
Visa
Visa requirements
required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-September
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 20 GBP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 71 GBP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$130.00
≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 103 GBP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 158 GBP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$160.00
≈ 13 427 ₽ · ≈ 126 GBP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 71 GBP
Book a hotel Partner
Over 2 million hotels — Trip.com
Find
Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$38.00
≈ 3 189 ₽ · ≈ 30 GBP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 3 GBP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 3 GBP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 1 GBP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$11.00
≈ 923 ₽ · ≈ 9 GBP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 GBP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 6 GBP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 43 GBP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 2 GBP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 6 GBP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 36 GBP
Airport transfer Putivator
Comfortable transfer — Putivator
Book
Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽ · ≈ 17 GBP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 16 GBP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Scarborough Partner
Museums, parks, tours - Tiqets
Find
Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 28 GBP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 16 GBP
eSIM for travellers Partner
Internet in 200+ countries — Yesim
Connect
Frequently asked questions
Scarborough: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Scarborough: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +28.0°C, during the day — up to +17.9°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Scarborough: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +3.0°C, during the day — up to +7.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Scarborough: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +16.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Scarborough: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on October-January. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Scarborough: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: South Bay. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Scarborough: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Scarborough: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. The beach is safe for swimming, but the water is cool even in summer. A wetsuit is recommended for prolonged time in the water.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Scarborough: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $150.00 (≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 119 GBP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Scarborough: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $25.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $90.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $130.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $160.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Scarborough: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $38.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Scarborough: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $55.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.50, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Scarborough: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Scarborough Castle — Medieval fortress on a rocky headland with panoramic views of the town and two bays; Peasholm Park — Scenic park with a lake, Japanese garden and boating station, popular for family outings; South Bay — Traditional seaside resort with a sandy beach, pier and promenade with cafes and shops; North Bay — Quieter beach with views of the castle, popular with surfers and walkers; Scarborough Museum — Museum with exhibits on the town's history including maritime and archaeology. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Scarborough: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fish and Chips — Classic British dish of battered fried fish with chips, especially popular on the coast; Crab — Fresh crab from the North Sea, served in salads, sandwiches or as a standalone dish; Ice Cream — The coast has many ice cream parlours with a variety of flavours including local specialties; Meat Pie — Traditional English pie with beef and vegetables; Ale — Scarborough is known for its breweries and traditional English ales. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Scarborough: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: South Bay — Traditional seaside resort with beach, pier and promenade, popular with families; North Bay — Quieter area with beach and castle views, popular with surfers; Old Town — Historic fishing quarter with narrow streets, pubs and seafood restaurants; Town Centre — Close to the market, shops and main attractions. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Scarborough: is a visa required?
Visa: required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Scarborough: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Дарэм Тис Вэлли Аэропорт (code MME). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $55.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Scarborough: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GBP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $150.00 (≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 119 GBP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Scarborough: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Scarborough: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Scarborough: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: York — Historic city with a Gothic cathedral and medieval walls, 50 minutes by train; Whitby — Scenic coastal town with an abbey and beach, 30 minutes by car; North York Moors National Park — Scenic hills and villages with rich nature, 30 minutes by car; Filey — Coastal town with a beach and castle, 20 minutes by car. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.1/10
Overall rank: 2126 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1259

Best season

June-September

Useful information

Currency: GBP
Coordinates: 54.282500, -0.407600