Top 5 Family Activities in Scarborough and Why Your Kids Will Love Them

Louise Tomlinson • June 25, 2025

Kids bored? Not anymore.

Most parents struggle to find activities that keep the whole family happy. But Scarborough has something special waiting for you.

Why Scarborough is perfect for families

Nestled on Yorkshire's stunning coastline, Scarborough offers that perfect mix of beach fun, history, and adventure that keeps everyone smiling.

The best part? You don't need to break the bank to have an amazing time.

Let's dive into the five activities your family won't want to miss...

1. Beach Adventures at North and South Bay

Nothing beats a classic beach day.

Scarborough boasts two stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm. South Bay is the bustling heart of seaside fun with golden sands perfect for sandcastle building.

Want to create special memories? Try the donkey rides along South Bay during summer months. Kids absolutely love these gentle animals that take them on short trips across the soft sand.

North Bay offers a quieter experience, ideal for family picnics and paddling in the sea. The clean, spacious beach gives children plenty of room to run and play.

And the best thing? It's completely free to enjoy the beaches all day long.

2. SEA LIFE Scarborough

Underwater worlds await curious minds.

SEA LIFE Scarborough takes your family on an amazing journey beneath the waves. Kids can get up close with everything from graceful sea turtles to mysterious sharks.

The interactive rockpool experience is a definite highlight. Children can actually touch starfish and crabs under expert supervision.

"My 6-year-old talked about the penguin feeding for weeks after our visit," says local mum Sarah.

Don't miss the ocean tunnel where sea creatures swim right above your heads – it's the perfect spot for family photos that will make your friends jealous.

3. Scarborough Castle

History comes alive on the cliffs.

Perched dramatically on a headland overlooking both bays, Scarborough Castle offers more than just stunning views.

This 2,500-year-old fortress has seen everything from Iron Age settlements to Viking invasions. The free audio tour brings these stories to life in a way that captivates even younger children.

Let the kids burn off energy exploring the massive grounds while you soak in panoramic views of the Yorkshire coastline.

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the castle grounds – it's the perfect lunch spot with a view that's hard to beat.

4. North Bay Railway

All aboard for nostalgic fun!

This charming miniature railway has been delighting families since 1931. The train journey from Peasholm Park to Scalby Mills offers beautiful coastal views that both kids and adults will love.

"My little boy's face lit up when he saw the train – it was the highlight of our holiday," says visitor Tom from Leeds.

For more adventurous family members, check out the Sky Trail Adventure – a high ropes course that provides thrills for older children while younger ones enjoy the train.

The railway also connects to other attractions, making it both fun and practical for getting around.

5. Peasholm Park

A peaceful paradise with surprising delights.

This beautiful oriental-themed park is perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. The Japanese gardens and large lake create a tranquil setting for a family stroll.

The unexpected highlight? The Naval Warfare display – a unique miniature sea battle performed on the lake with handmade boats. It's quirky, entertaining and something you won't see anywhere else.

Rent a pedal boat shaped like a dragon and explore the lake together, or simply enjoy an ice cream while watching the squirrels and birds.

Planning your Scarborough family adventure

The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warmest and all attractions are open.

For accommodation, book early if you're planning a summer visit as the best family-friendly options fill up quickly.

Many attractions offer family tickets that can save you up to 20% compared to individual entry prices.

Why choose Scarborough for your next family break?

Unlike overcrowded theme parks, Scarborough offers that perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. Kids can enjoy adventure while parents actually get to unwind too.

The variety of activities means there's something for every age group, weather condition, and interest.

Most importantly, the memories you'll create together will last far longer than any souvenir.

Ready to discover Scarborough's family-friendly magic? Book your stay with Stay Yorkshire Coast and we'll help you plan the perfect itinerary for your crew.


May 30, 2025
Top 5 Family-Friendly Beaches in Scarborough and Why Locals Love Them Most holiday guests miss the best spots. We've lived in Scarborough for years and still discover hidden gems along our coastline. Your guests deserve to know where locals actually go. Forget the tourist traps. The beaches we're about to share offer something special that keeps families coming back year after year. North Bay Beach: The Adventure Playground Kids bored at the beach? Not here. North Bay offers more than just sand and sea. The colourful beach huts create the perfect backdrop for family photos while the rock pools keep little explorers busy for hours. What makes it special? The water quality. North Bay consistently earns excellent ratings for its clean swimming waters, making it perfect for families with young children who want to splash safely. "We always recommend North Bay to our holiday home guests with children," says Louise. "The clean beach and nearby amenities make it easy for families to spend the whole day without any stress." South Bay Beach: The Classic Seaside Experience Sometimes the obvious choice is popular for good reasons. South Bay delivers everything you expect from a traditional British seaside holiday. The golden sand stretches for miles, perfect for building sandcastles or playing beach cricket. But here's what most tourists miss... The best time to visit is early morning. Before 9am, you'll have much of the beach to yourself, and watching the fishing boats return with their catch creates magical memories for children. We've seen countless guests fall in love with South Bay's charm, especially when they discover the hidden coves at the southern end. Cayton Bay: The Surfer's Paradise Want to see your guests' children stand up on a surfboard for the first time? Cayton Bay offers gentle waves perfect for beginners, with surf schools that cater specifically to families. The wide, open beach means plenty of space even during peak summer. The secret? The microclimate. Cayton Bay is often sheltered from stronger winds, making it warmer than other beaches in the area. Perfect for families who want to extend their beach day into the evening with a sunset picnic. Scarborough Castle Beach: The History Lesson Beach days can be educational too. Nestled beneath the impressive Scarborough Castle, this small but charming beach combines history with natural beauty. Children can collect shells while learning about the 12th-century fortress towering above. What locals know... The beach has some of the most interesting rock formations along the coast, perfect for budding geologists. Cornelian Bay: The Secret Escape Ever wanted to feel like you've discovered something special? Cornelian Bay remains Scarborough's best-kept secret. This hidden cove requires a short walk through woodland to access, but the reward is worth it – a peaceful beach often with just a handful of other visitors. Why families love it... The sense of adventure getting there creates lasting memories. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for paddling with toddlers, and the surrounding cliffs offer natural shade during hot summer days. Richard shares: "When guests return from Cornelian Bay, they always thank us for the recommendation. It's these little local insights that make staying in a personally managed holiday home so special." Why These Beaches Matter to Your Holiday Home Your guests don't just book accommodation – they book experiences. Knowing where to send families based on their specific needs shows you care about their entire holiday, not just their stay. This attention to detail is exactly what sets personally managed holiday homes apart from corporate alternatives. We regularly create personalised beach guides for our holiday homeowners, tailored to their specific properties and the typical guests they attract. Want to give your guests the inside scoop on Scarborough's best beaches? Let's chat about how we can help your holiday home stand out with local knowledge that keeps families coming back year after year.