Scarborough Hotels

Best places to stay in Scarborough with your family

Scarborough is a small seaside town, with the focus around the main seafront Scarborough Beach or South Beach Bay. The streets just behind the promenade are the perfect location for a beach break, with great access to the seafront, the amenities, many of the restaurants, pubs and cafes, and plenty of accommodation options in all budgets. Another great spot to stay is at the top of the hill, overlooking Scarborough’s North Bay and scenic Royal Albert Drive, with great access to the castle. The areas further from the seafront are mostly residential and have few or no accommodation options.

Where to stay with your family in Scarborough

The whole town is very family oriented so you can’t go wrong in any area. Families with little children might prefer to stay close by the seafront, to maximise seaside fun and minimise walking time. The Central Hotel is a great option, and surprisingly grand for the budget price bracket. Here, the spacious rooms are ample for families with multiple children and the hotel offers breakfast and pub grub. For a quieter family getaway, head to the North Beach side of town near Peasholm park – perfect for strolls with the pram or tiring the kids out before bed. The Meltham Guesthouse is perfectly located close to the beach and the park and offers family rooms for families with two or three kids.

Where to find cheap hotels in Scarborough

You’re actually spoilt for choice when it comes to reasonably priced hotels in Scarborough. Many of the B&Bs here work out as a great deal for a holiday, since the price includes a breakfast too. The Almar bed and breakfast has double, twin and single rooms for around £70–90 per night and is steps from Peasholm Park and the walk down to North Bay beach. For a super-budget – rooms starting from £35/night – try Green Gables Hotel, three-star establishment just over a mile from the beach. This hotel has large family rooms, as well as classic doubles, with modern bathrooms and simple furnishings. For less than £50/night, you can also book into The Grand Hotel, in a building with classic seaside architecture, just steps from the main beach and promenade. The rooms are simply furnished, but the common spaces in the hotel retain some of their Golden-Era grandeur and the restaurant has a fantastic sea view.

Where to stay as a solo traveller

As a solo traveller enjoying a seaside escape, you simply can’t beat a local business with a personal touch. Kenways Guest House near North Bay Beach is just that; the seven double, en-suite rooms are managed personally by a local couple who also ensure your cooked or cold breakfast is exactly as you’d like it. Rooms start from as little as £40 per person, per night, so you also can’t beat it for value. Bike & Boot is a modern concept hotel designed for those who love the outdoors – whether you’re walking, hiking or bringing your four-legged friend. This dog-friendly stay has chic and colourful bedrooms with everything you could need. There’s a restaurant offering buffet breakfast and the hotel also has several included perks, like bike storage, free hot drinks and cakes in the afternoon, free dog grooming and a free film club too – what could be cosier for a solo traveller with a furry friend? It’s a great pick for families too though.

Key points of interest in Scarborough

See the ruins of medieval Scarborough Castle, which was built in the early-12th century, although there is evidence to suggest that this sight had been inhabited in the Iron Age. You could also visit the popular Scarborough Spa, which organises numerous music events, exhibitions and special private functions, and is housed in an enchanting Victorian landmark. If you have the time, explore beautiful Peasholm Park, a former medieval manor estate that marked its centenary in 2012 and was designed in an elegant Oriental style.

Other attractions worth visiting in the town

If you're interested in getting more insight into the history of the Yorkshire Coast, you might want to spend some time in the Rotunda Museum, where you can witness many interesting archaeological artefacts dating back to the Jurassic period in one of Britain's oldest purpose-built exhibition venues. Another much-loved attraction in the town is the Scarborough Open Air Theatre, which originally opened in the 1930s and benefited from a multi-million pound refurbishment in the late 2000s, reopening in 2010 when Queen Elizabeth II visited Scarborough.

Accommodation

For affordable, elegantly presented Scarborough hotels, you can consider the Premier Inn Scarborough, the Mount Hotel, or the Manor Heath Hotel, or try the charming country themed Ox Pasture Hall Hotel. Other highly rated hotels in the town are the Bay New Southlands Hotel, the chic Weston Hotel, and the Hackness Grange Country House Hotel in Hackness.

The 10 must-sees of Scarborough

• Enjoying swimming, sunbathing and relaxing on **South Bay Beach **and North Bay Beach.

• Stroll the South Bay promenade for a taste of seaside nostalgia, to purchase souvenirs and to imbibe in some fish and chips.

• Venture into the Terror Tower house of horrors.

• Visit Luna Park amusement park to complete your seaside experience.

• Explore the ruins of Scarborough castle and walk the Sea Wall Heritage Trail.

• Learn about the local area at the Museum of Coastal Heritage and Geology.

• Enjoy classical and modern art exhibitions at Scarborough Art Gallery and Woodend Gallery.

• Visit Anne Bronte’s grave at St Mary’s Church.

• Catch a show at Scarborough Open Air Theatre.

• Ride the Scarborough North Bay Railway and the cliff lift at South Bay.

Going Out in Scarborough

Scarborough offers a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes, from cosy pubs and family-friendly restaurants to lively bars and nightclubs. Whether you're staying in one of the many charming Scarborough hotels or just visiting for the day, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy your evenings out.

Restaurants

• The Seafood Social: For seafood lovers, this spot offers fresh catches in a casual setting.

• Az Restaurant: A fine dining experience with a menu that showcases the best of British cuisine.

Pubs and Bars

• The Newcastle Packet: Known as one of Scarborough's oldest pubs, it's perfect for those looking to enjoy traditional ales in a historic setting.

• North Riding Brew Pub: This pub offers a selection of craft beers and ales brewed on-site, alongside hearty pub grub.

Nightclubs

• Bamboo Bar: For those looking to dance the night away, Bamboo Bar is Scarborough’s go-to for live DJs and a vibrant atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Options

• Alpamare Water Park: Not your traditional nightlife option, but perfect for an evening of family fun with water slides and pools.

• Stephen Joseph Theatre: Offering a range of performances from plays to musicals, it's a great option for an entertaining night out.

Why Choose Scarborough Hotels

Staying in Scarborough hotels puts you at the heart of the action, ensuring you're never too far from the best dining, drinking, and entertainment options the town has to offer. From family trips and romantic getaways to solo adventures, Scarborough’s nightlife scene has something for everyone, making it the perfect base for exploring the best of what this seaside town has to offer.

Shopping in Scarborough

Scarborough offers a diverse shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget. From quaint boutiques and traditional markets to modern malls, the town is a treasure trove for shoppers. Here's a guide to the best shopping areas in Scarborough, ensuring visitors staying in Scarborough hotels can easily find everything they need and more.

Independent Boutiques and Shops

• Bar Street and Huntriss Row: Wander down these charming streets to discover a selection of independent shops selling everything from vintage clothing and unique gifts to handmade jewellery and artisanal foods.

Markets

• Scarborough Market Hall: A historic market offering a wide range of goods including fresh local produce, crafts, antiques, and delicious street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique items.

• Scarborough Open Air Market: Operating on selected days, this market features stalls selling clothes, accessories, home goods, and more, perfect for bargain hunters.

Shopping Centres and Malls

• Brunswick Shopping Centre: Located in the heart of Scarborough, Brunswick Shopping Centre is home to over 30 high street shops and eateries, offering fashion, beauty products, electronics, and more under one roof.

Specialty Stores

• Forbes Gifts and Interiors: Specializes in beautiful home decor, gifts, and bespoke furniture, ideal for finding that special something to take home.

• The Scarborough Bookshop: A haven for book lovers, offering a wide selection of titles across various genres, including local authors and history books about Scarborough and Yorkshire.

Why Shop in Scarborough

Staying in Scarborough hotels not only provides easy access to the town's beautiful beaches and attractions but also puts you within walking distance of fantastic shopping opportunities. Whether you're after the latest fashion, unique gifts, or local produce, Scarborough’s shopping scene promises an enjoyable and fruitful experience for all.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

Palm Court Hotel is both a luxury and gourmet establishment, which also happens to be located just steps from Scarborough’s sandy south beach. They cater to all travellers, with single rooms, classic doubles and family rooms, as well as a spacious suite. The real star here is the grand dining room, with more than a hint of Golden Age nostalgia and an AA One Rosette award for culinary excellence. Dinners are equal parts photogenic and delicious, breakfasts are hearty, and there’s a separate Sunday roast menu, as well as dainty afternoon teas. The cocktail bar is also a real hit, serving up classics and signature cocktails.

Spa hotels

The Crown Spa Hotel Scarborough is in a charming building right on the esplanade, facing the sea. It has spacious, modern rooms, a rated restaurant with a pretty terrace and a fitness suite, but the real star of the show is the spa. There’s an indoor pool and sauna, as well as a full menu of facials, massages and treatments and their spa days start at just £70. Families can book the family double rooms, with space for kids, and you can also conveniently book parking via the hotel; rooms here start at around £100/night.

Luxury Hotels

Mansion House is a five-star bed and breakfast in Scarborough. Next to the Italian gardens with an unrivalled sea view, it is the epitome of old-fashioned elegance. It has luxury apartments and en suite bedrooms with grand furnishings and a grander view, and you’ll still find quaint quirks like a fully stocked honesty bar and a full English fry up in the mornings. For something a little more modern, but still with luxury touches, try The Cordelia, a few streets back from the Esplanade. The highly rated bed and breakfast prides itself on a small number of rooms with exceedingly high quality furnishings and amenities, as well as thoughtful decor and delightful food. The staff here take breakfast very seriously, with a smorgasbord of options and in the evenings you can enjoy a cheese or charcuterie platter to share.