Welcome to Scarborough: Celebrating 400 Years of the Great British Seaside! In 2026, we aren’t just celebrating a new season—we’re celebrating a massive birthday. This year marks 400 years since Scarborough became Britain’s very first seaside resort, and we want you to be part of the party. Where it All Started: A Lucky Find Back in 1626, a local woman named Thomasin Farrer took a walk along the South Bay cliffs and spotted a natural spring. She discovered the waters were packed with minerals that made people feel fantastic. Soon, people were travelling from across the country to "take the waters," and just like that, the British seaside holiday was born right here on our shores. 400 Years of Firsts When you walk our promenade today, you’re walking in the footsteps of history. Scarborough isn't just the oldest resort; it’s a place of "firsts": The First Spa: Our iconic Scarborough Spa evolved from a tiny well into the grand entertainment palace you see today. The First Bathing Machines: We were the first to roll wooden "changing rooms" into the sea so Victorian visitors could take a modest dip. The Grandest Hotels: When the Grand Hotel opened in 1867, it was the largest in Europe—a true "palace for the people." Join the 'Scarborough 400' Celebrations We’re pulling out all the stops for 2026. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, there’s something special waiting for you: The Giant Deckchair Trail: Grab a map and find our oversized, artist-designed deckchairs hidden across the town—the perfect spot for a family selfie! Dive Into History: Visit the Scarborough Art Gallery for a spectacular exhibition charting 400 years of sun, sea, and sand. Summer Spectacles: Look out for the new heritage sculpture being unveiled at South Bay this July, celebrating Thomasin Farrer’s big discovery. Illuminated Evenings: As autumn arrives, don't miss the magical light installations in Peasholm Park, bringing our 400-year story to life after dark. Make Your Own History From the donkey rides on the beach to the world-famous fish and chips, Scarborough is a place where memories are made. Come for the history, stay for the views, and help us toast to the next 400 years of the seaside! Plan your visit today and be part of the UK's biggest coastal birthday party.

As the first seaside resort in Britain, Scarborough has perfected the art of the getaway for 400 years. March 2026 brings a unique charm to the coast—a peaceful "calm before the storm" of summer crowds, where blooming gardens and fresh sea air take centre stage. Whether you're looking for high-energy festivals or a tranquil coastal escape, here is why you should visit in the next few weeks... 1. Headline Events at the Spa - GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THESE SHOWS HERE! The iconic Scarborough Spa is the town's entertainment hub this month, hosting everything from comedy to high-octane music festivals: Bridget Christie: Jacket Potato Pizza: Catch this brand-new stand-up show on Friday, 13 March. Man in the Mirror: A tribute to Michael Jackson electrifies the Grand Hall on Saturday, 14 March. Scarborough Punk Festival: A massive weekend of 16 bands, including headliners The Casualties and Sham-69, takes over from 28–29 March. Justin Live: Perfect for families, CBeebies' star Justin Fletcher brings his "Justin Time To Rock" show on Saturday, 21 March. 2. Spring Wildlife & Scenic Walks March is one of the best times for nature lovers to explore the Cleveland Way National Trail. Puffin Spotting: Head to the nearby RSPB Bempton Cliffs as seabirds begin returning to their nesting sites. Wildflower Meadows: Explore the 16 acres of Scarborough Castle, where the headland transforms into a massive wildflower meadow. Quiet Promenades: Enjoy a brisk two-mile walk around Marine Drive with fewer crowds, watching the dramatic North Sea waves crash against the sea walls. 3. Family Adventures Reopening Many of Scarborough's favourite seasonal attractions are ramping back up for the spring: North Bay Railway: This charming miniature railway reopens in March, offering scenic rides from Peasholm Park to the Scalby Mills. Easter Quests: Starting 28 March, kids can join the Easter Egg Hunt at Scarborough Castle. Aquatic Wonders: Rain or shine, SEA LIFE Scarborough offers indoor tropical tunnels and the Penguin Island walk-through. 4. Coastal Comfort Food There is no better time to indulge in traditional Yorkshire fare without the long summer queues: Fresh Seafood : Enjoy a classic tray of chips or locally caught seafood at the Scarborough Harbour. Cosy Pubs: Warm up with a locally brewed ale and a hearty Sunday roast at independent pubs in the town centre. Quick Travel Tip: March weather typically ranges from 8°C to 12°C. While sunny intervals are frequent, a "fresh breeze" is common on the coast, so a windproof jacket is your best friend!

An Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) was introduced to ban motorhomes parking overnight in Scarborough's North Bay and at nearby Cayton Bay, but as the May deadline looms, councillors are set to discuss the ban at the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee meeting today. North Yorkshire Council have been seeking opinions ahead of the experimental period's expiry date, and they have received an overwhelming number of objections to it. It's not just motorhome owners who weren't happy with the ban, local residents have complained about the displacement of motorhomes moving to nearby residential streets. We will bring you details of what's discussed as soon we can.

While the rest of the UK is busy whisking batter and flipping crêpes in their kitchens, the coastal town of Scarborough takes to the streets for one of the most eccentric and enduring traditions in England: Skipping Day. If you find yourself on the South Bay on Shrove Tuesday, don’t be surprised to see hundreds of people—from toddlers to pensioners—jumping over thick nautical ropes to the sound of crashing waves. Here is the story behind this unique Yorkshire custom. The Legend of the Fisherman’s Rope Though the official records of Skipping Day date back to 1903, the roots of the tradition are buried much deeper in Scarborough’s maritime heritage. Local lore suggests that Shrove Tuesday was traditionally a day of rest for the town’s fishermen before the rigours of the spring season began. As they cleared out their boats and mended their nets, they would discard old, worn-out hemp ropes. Local children would scavenge these ropes and head to the Foreshore to play, eventually turning a simple game of skipping into a massive town-wide event. The "Pancake Bell" and the Golden Frying Pan The festivities don't just happen; they are officially summoned. At 12:00 noon, a crowd gathers on North Street to hear the ringing of the Pancake Bell. Historically, this bell served a practical purpose: it warned housewives to start frying their pancakes to use up fats and eggs before the fasting period of Lent. Today, the bell signals the start of the Pancake Races on Aberdeen Walk. Teams in ridiculous fancy dress—ranging from superheroes to giant lobsters—sprint while flipping pancakes, all vying for the glory of the Golden Frying Pan in an event hosted by Paddy from This Is The Coast radio station. The Main Event: Mass Skipping Once the races conclude, the party moves to the seafront. Foreshore Road is closed to traffic, transforming the promenade into a giant playground. Long Ropes: You won't see many individual skipping ropes here. Instead, long, heavy ropes (often provided by local charities or the Sea Cadets) are manned by two "turners." The Challenge: It isn't just about jumping; it’s about how many people can fit in the rope at once. It is common to see groups of ten or more people leaping in perfect (or chaotic) synchronisation. A Half-Day Holiday: The tradition is so ingrained in local culture that, for decades, Scarborough schools have closed at lunchtime on Shrove Tuesday to allow children to take part. Why You Should Visit Skipping Day is a rare glimpse into "Living History." Unlike many heritage events that feel like museum re-enactments, Scarborough’s tradition is loud, messy, and authentically local.

Dozens of tourism businesses and organisations have taken part in a countywide consultation to shape our response to a national survey on the Government’s plans for a visitor levy on overnight stays. North Yorkshire Council launched their own survey in December to gather the views of businesses and organisations involved in North Yorkshire’s multi-billion pound tourism sector about the proposals for the visitor levy. Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled plans during her Budget announcement in November for elected mayors to be given powers to introduce the visitor levy on overnight stays. A total of 277 responses were received from businesses and organisations involved in the visitor economy across the county to the survey, which was conducted by our destination management organisation, Visit North Yorkshire. The majority of respondents were against a visitor levy, with 71 per cent of replies voicing opposition to the proposals. A total of 18 per cent of respondents supported the Government’s plans while a further 11 per cent had a neutral view on the proposals. A report outlining the findings of the survey in the county has been prepared and a letter from executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, is due to be sent to the Government to outline our response to the proposed visitor levy. Cllr Crane, whose responsibilities include the visitor economy, is due to consider the report on the consultation during a meeting on Tuesday next week (17 February). If the report is approved by Cllr Crane, the survey results will then inform our response to the Government’s own national consultation on the visitor levy proposals, which closes on Wednesday next week (18 February). Cllr Crane said: “We would like to thank all the businesses and organisations who took the time to take part in the survey in North Yorkshire. It is important that we listen to what the tourism sector is telling us locally and I am very keen to use our voice to highlight what businesses are saying about the proposed visitor levy to the Government. “If a visitor levy is to be introduced, then it is vital that elected mayors consult extensively with the businesses and organisations that will be impacted. If the levy goes ahead, there needs to be flexibility on a local level to spend the money raised where it is needed most. “The visitor economy is so important for our local economy and attracts visitors from across the world to our beautiful market and coastal towns and the wealth of cultural experiences that are on offer. “We have a vast range of tourism businesses, from luxury hotels attracting international visitors to budget self-catering and caravan accommodation serving families from the UK. “All businesses are already under extreme pressure from rising VAT, business rates, energy costs and wage increases, and we need to make sure that all of our tourism sector is not adversely affected if a visitor levy is introduced.” Tourism is worth more than £4 billion to the local economy and 32.2 million people came to North Yorkshire in 2024 including both day and overnight visitors, which is an increase of 3.8 per cent on 2023. However, the majority of respondents to the countywide survey voiced concerns that the introduction of a visitor levy for overnight stays would lead to a decline in the number of people visiting North Yorkshire. Many respondents feared that even a modest additional charge could discourage overnight stays or shorten trips, particularly among visitors and families who have tighter financial budgets. Several replies highlighted concerns that visitors could be inclined to choose areas without a levy that would provide a cheaper option for overnight stays. Another major theme was the administrative burden associated with implementing and managing a levy. Respondents expressed concerns about the additional time and cost required to adjust booking systems, update payment processes, and maintain accurate records. This was seen as especially challenging for small businesses with limited administrative capacity. Many businesses argued that a levy applied solely to overnight accommodation and not the wider tourism industry, so it was therefore a “tourism tax” specifically for accommodation providers. If a visitor levy is introduced in North Yorkshire, the majority of respondents were clear that any revenue should be used to fund improvements to enhance visitors’ experiences and support the long-term sustainability of tourism across the county. The majority of respondents selected the “strongly oppose” option when asked about whether they supported a visitor levy in North Yorkshire. This group accounts for about half of all respondents who answered the stance question, and approximately 70 per cent of those who opposed. Responses came from every major part of the visitor economy, with the largest number from accommodation providers, followed by visitor attractions, food and drink businesses, tourism-related retail, event organisers, activity providers and community groups. Respondents were geographically spread across the county, including the coast, the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks, market towns, rural villages and larger towns including Scarborough and Harrogate. The survey in North Yorkshire was specifically for businesses and organisations involved in tourism, and did not seek the views of residents and visitors.

Work has started this week on improvements to a popular route which provides stunning views of North Yorkshire’s coastline. The improvements to gateways on the Cinder Track are being carried out between Scalby and Scarborough. North Yorkshire Council are improving the safety of junctions, enhancing biodiversity, and creating new public spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. The project aims to boost connections, create a network of interesting spaces to explore, and support the tourism economy. The project has also been split into different themes, all inspired by the heritage of the former railway route which dates back to the Victorian era. Executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said: “The Cinder Track is a major asset for North Yorkshire, supporting everyday journeys for local people while also attracting visitors who want to experience our coast and countryside. “This Towns Deal funding gives us the opportunity to significantly enhance the gateways between Scalby and Scarborough. “These improvements will not only encourage more people to enjoy active travel, but also help celebrate and preserve the historic character that makes the Cinder Track such an important part of our heritage.” The project will see some areas developed as rest places with benches introduced, while others will be designated as gateway areas, or spaces that are journeyed through, to get to a destination. The eight areas of the £2.2 million project include Chichester Close, Newby Farm, Cross Lane, Gallows, Old Carriage Sidings, Woodland Ravine and Wykeham Street. Funding was awarded through the Government’s Towns Deal, to regenerate the area and deliver long-term economic growth. The council's highways company, NYHighways, is delivering the highways element of the scheme and work is expected to take a maximum 20 weeks, although this will be dependent on weather conditions. In 2024, they carried out a public consultation on the proposals. More than half of the people who responded supported the improvements and believed they would encourage both residents and visitors to use the Cinder Track. The project is also aligned with Scarborough’s Town Investment Plan and aims to improve health through increased walking and cycling, boost access to employment, education and leisure, reduce carbon emissions and enhance air quality. The chair of our Scarborough and Whitby area committee, Cllr Liz Colling, who represents the Falsgrave and Stepney division, said: “This work will help to ensure more people can access the Cinder Track and enjoy the wonderful views that this route provides along the coast. “The track has a special place for our local communities while also being enjoyed by visitors from far afield. I am pleased to see that the work is centred on the heritage of the route while making it fit for purpose for the 21st century.” The length of the Cinder Track follows a disused railway line which has been converted into a bridle way that is used by walkers and cyclists and stretches for 21 miles from Scarborough to Whitby. The track is popular with both local communities and visitors, allowing access to the countryside and providing outstanding views over the landscape, as well as a connection between villages and towns.

Residents, businesses and visitors to Scarborough are being encouraged to have their say on which projects would benefit most from a multi-million pound investment to drive regeneration and improve the health and wellbeing of communities. Scarborough is set to receive up to £20 million of government funding as part of a national programme to bring major investment to towns across the country. The money aims to support community-based projects that can bring long-term benefits for the area. They include boosting economic growth, creating more welcoming and inclusive environments, and identifying more opportunities for young people to reach their potential. The Plan for Neighbourhoods programme was renamed Pride in Place in September last year. The Scarborough Neighbourhood Board is responsible for co-ordinating how the funding will be spent in the town, working with North Yorkshire Council, and has identified 11 local projects that could benefit from the money. The board is now seeking residents, businesses and visitors to have their say on each project as part of a five-week consultation which opens from today (Thursday, 8 January). They are the Old Town Regeneration project, the redevelopment of Square One (SQ1), Sprucing Up Scarborough, We Are Scarborough Volunteering Hub, The Scarborough Fair, Turning Tides, Dads Behaving Madly Wellbeing Hub, Scarborough Youth Spaces Network, Stephen Joseph Theatre improvements, Scarborough Watersports and Sea Centre, and the Scarborough Community Grant Fund. Submissions received as part of the consultation will help determine which projects will be considered to benefit from the first batch of funding. Executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include regeneration, said: “It’s vital that the projects chosen are the right ones that can make a positive and lasting difference for the communities of Scarborough. “We want this money to be just the beginning – it must act as a catalyst to inspire further investment in Scarborough that can continue to help revitalise the town centre for decades to come and improve residents’ health and wellbeing. “The 11 projects have been identified by the Scarborough Neighbourhood Board to reflect the community’s priorities and have been developed in partnership with a range of organisations, businesses, young people and residents. “I would encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and have their say on which projects should receive the funding. All submitted views will be considered before a formal decision is made, with the feedback helping to shape the future of Scarborough.” The board has produced a 10-year regeneration plan for the town, as well as a four-year investment plan, which sets out its over-arching priorities following extensive engagement with the public, which included Let’s Talk Scarborough. This has been submitted to the Government with approval of the plan expected within the next few weeks. The priorities include improving the town’s appearance by tidying up public spaces, looking at ways to brighten up shopfronts and streets and supporting the delivery of more leisure and commercial opportunities to stimulate town centre footfall. The chair of the Scarborough Neighbourhood Board, Heath Samples, said: “Pride in Place is about putting local Scarborough people at the heart of shaping the future of where they live. “This consultation is a crucial moment to listen, learn and make sure the priorities we set genuinely reflect the character, strengths and ambitions of our neighbourhoods. “I would encourage everyone who cares about Scarborough – residents, businesses and community groups – to take part. Your views matter. Taking a few minutes to contribute helps ensure our decisions are grounded in real experience and a shared sense of pride in our town. “The Neighbourhood Board will use this feedback to shape the next phase of Pride in Place, refining priorities, guiding investment and turning ideas into practical action. We are committed to making sure what people tell us directly influences what happens next.” The MP for Scarborough and Whitby, Alison Hume, said: “This is an important moment for Scarborough as residents get their first chance to feedback on the first tranche of shortlisted projects for the government’s flagship Pride in Place programme. “Pride in Place is investing £20 million over ten years on projects which the community decide are the priorities for them. “There are some much needed initiatives such as Sprucing Up Scarborough which I am really excited about as I know how much residents are desperate for a revitalised town centre they can enjoy, feel safe in, and be proud of." The consultation runs from today until Friday, 13 February. Take part in the consultation here

Already, TK Maxx Presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre have announced 23 concerts for 2026, featuring no less than 36 artists, with even more set to be revealed! The venue have announced a series of concerts in the last few days, great news for music lovers and a huge boost to Scarborough's tourism industry. Get your tickets HERE NOW! Here's the full list so far... Friday 5 June Rick Astley / The Lottery Winners Saturday 6 June Madness / Hollie Cook / The Beat ft. Ranking Jr. Friday 12 June Paul Weller Thursday 18 June The Kooks Saturday 20 June Skunk Anansie / Garbage Sunday 21 June Anastacia / Heather Small Friday 26 June Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics Saturday 27 June Richard Ashcroft / Tom Meighan / Apollo Junction Sunday 28 June Billy Ocean / Marti Pellow Thursday 2 July Bowling For Soup / Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls Friday 3 July James Arthur Saturday 4 July David Gray / The Divine Comedy Monday 6 July Michael Bublé Friday 10 July Deacon Blue / The Lightning Seeds Saturday 11 July Bastille / Nectar Woode Friday 17 July Alex James' Britpop Classical Saturday 18 July CMAT Wednesday 22 July Teddy Swims Thursday 23rd July Teddy Swims Saturday 25 July James Taylor Saturday 1 August The Streets Sunday 2nd August Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter / The Stranglers / The Undertones Saturday 8 August Scissor Sisters Friday 14 August Holly Johnson / ABC / Heaven 17 GET YOUR TICKETS HERE NOW! And don't forget to book your ACCOMMODATION HERE too!

This Thursday 21st August, we'll explore Scarborough on a guided walking tour, which includes free time for lunch and a complimentary trip on an open top bus and your ticket for the Naval Warfare at Peasholm Park. Your day starts at 11:00am outside the main entrance to Scarborough's Grand Hotel. Your guided walk with Paddy takes you on a journey through Scarborough's history, including as an important fishing and shipbuilding port, to it becoming the UK's first seaside resort. See the scars of the famous WW1 'Bombardment Of Scarborough', see an actual dinosaur footprint & stand on the spot where the British Seaside Resort was born! There will be free time for you to enjoy your own lunch. Bring a picnic or grab some food from the many outlets near the Toll House at Scarborough Harbour, before your complimentary ride on an Open Top Bus to North Bay. After a guided tour around Peasholm Park & the promenade in North Bay, you get the opportunity to watch the famous naval warfare show on the lake at Peasholm Park, the cost of which is covered in the tour. Start time 3:00pm. Following the show, the tour is over. But your bus ticket means you can use it to get back to South Bay and the start of the tour should you wish! The finish time for the Naval Warfare is around 3:30pm. Get your tickets (limited availability) here now For any questions, please email patrick@visitscarborough.com