AM
When strolling down the Seafront, don't forget to look up. The sight of the majestic Grand Hotel, steeped in history, dominates the skyline. The Spa bridge seems to casts an ethereal glow against the roads' ruggedness. The Spa in the distance is a nod to the classic elegance of the Victorian era when open-air orchestras were typical.
No matter what type of experience you are looking for in Scarbrough, whether it's a speedboat ride, run along the beach or simply a lazy beach picnic, the South Bay offers something for every pace.
Foodies can wander the array of fresh seafood stalls for lunch or opt for one of the elegant restaurants that line the bay, such as Geo, Saltwater and Marisco Lounge, to name a few. Grab a cool drink and sit outside to absorb the atmosphere and savour the view.
Recommended Lunch Spot
Light bites and great coffee: Bay View Coffee House
PM
After lunch, walk back to The Spa to climb up to Southcliff Gardens, a beautiful and unique collection of gardens that can be accessed from down on the Seafront or the Esplanade above.
Take your time to wander through each garden collection, including the Spa Gardens, Italian Gardens, Prince of Wales Gardens, the Rose Garden, Holbeck Gardens, and the Shuttleworth Gardens.
Explore the twisting trails that descend a significant slope from the Esplanade to the Seafront, admiring the beautiful trees, shrubs and unique structures.
A detailed map of the gardens can be downloaded from the Friends of Southcliff Gardens website.
Finally, take a walk from the Esplanade across the Spa bridge to stay the night at The Bike & Boot Hotel, heaven for dog owners, surfers, walkers and cyclists alike that boasts storage, cleaning areas and even a grooming table alongside free cinema and cake for guests.
Recommended dining spots:
Fish and Chips with sea views: Papas
Bistro: The Central
Recommended places to stay
Dog and Cyclist Friendly: Bike & Boot Hotel
AM
Rising up in the skyline above Scarborough is Oliver's Mount, and at its foot, you will find Scarborough Mere.
Olivers Mount is home to England's only natural 'road' race track and hosts exciting motorbike races throughout the year. You can access it by road, foot or cycle, and as you climb to the top through exciting twists and turns, you won't leave disappointed with the incredible views across Scarborough. Olivers Mount Cafe will reward you with a super lunch at the top, with outside seating available for warmer days, and dogs are welcome too.
Head down to explore the scenic Mere, a relaxed, back-to-nature place. A leisurely walk around the lake will take 30 minutes; feed bags are available from the small cafe for the abundant wildlife, ranging from geese and swans to kingfishers and cormorants.
Recommended lunch spot
Panoramic views across Scarborough: Olivers on the Mount Cafe Bar
PM
A must-do experience has to be hiring a beach chalet and "claiming" your piece of the beach for the day.
The Hairy Bikers were recently at North Bay, showing how to turn a humble chalet into a seafood masterclass destination. If you don't fancy packing your pans to cook up a storm, opt for a takeaway picnic from the handy shops and restaurants nearby and have the best of both worlds.
Either way, having a place to call your own for the day is priceless and makes a trip to the beach a breeze.
Recommended dining spot
North Bay views, perfect for seafood: Saltwater
Saltwater's glass-fronted restaurant is the perfect place for lunch and provides excellent views of the Castle.
Recommended places to stay
Luxury Seaview Apartments: The Sands Seaview Apartments
Dust off your sandy shoes and check into The Sands; these luxury Seaview apartments are set right on the beach and offer spectacular views of the North Bay.
AM
No trip to Scarborough would be complete without a visit to the iconic Scarborough Castle; there’s no other spot where you can gaze across both of Scarborough’s sandy bays.
As you climb the hill up Castle Road and reach the imposing gatehouse, you can feel the energy and significance of this historical site which dominates the town’s landscape.
Enjoy a gentle walk down the cliff through the network of paths, and stroll along Marine Drive to see the North Sea crashing against the sea wall or if you're lucky, dolphins can be spotted breaching in the bay waters on calmer days.
PM
Next, it's time to come away from the Coast and head inland to the dramatic scenery of Forge Valley and the River Derwent.
Cyclists, walkers and anglers are welcome here, with plenty of places to stop off and information boards; there are many trails, including a geology trail or the beautiful boardwalk, an easy two-mile linear route along the river and woodlands.
Be sure to keep your eyes open as the woods here are teeming with wildlife, including otters, crayfish and even the Green Warbler!
Expect to see and smell huge expanses of pungent wild garlic in spring. Then, in the height of summer, it can feel almost tropical as you weave between the fauna. Still, Forge Valley is at its most spectacular in Autumn, with striking displays of colour around every corner.
Retire to East Ayton Lodge, located on the edge of the woodlands, a Country house hotel with a relaxed atmosphere and super friendly team with great food. Cyclists can make use of the Bike Repair Station on site too.
Recommended places to stay
Caravan Park: St Helens in the Park
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Phil Catterall
(c) Andrews Walks
AM
If you are looking for a rural fix with walking and cycling routes in abundance, Hackness is a great village to stop off.
Expect countryside routes sweeping through Troutsdale and Wrench Green into the mighty Dalby Forest, one of England's more immense bike trial centres. Featuring coloured trails for every ability, including a World Cup XC black trail, it can't be missed for those who love life on two wheels. So pack a picnic or stop at the Visitors Centre for a bite.
If walking is more your thing, check out Reasty Bank. Two large car parks are handy next to the entrance, giving multiple trails of varying lengths through elevated woodland paths with incredible viewpoints. It's easy underfoot and a favourite with locals and dog walkers too.
PM
Close by another great spot is Broxa, covered in natural woods and perfect for an afternoon hike.
A circular woodland walk in Broxa Forest follows forest tracks, leading you through coniferous plantations and mixed woodland sections.
As the tracks lead you around the escarpment edge of Barn's Cliff, you will have spectacular views across Harwood Dale. Unfortunately, due to some steady gradients, these areas can be difficult to access after falling rain.
Stop the night in the picturesque village of Scalby and sample some fine dining delights and luxury accommodations from The Plough, set in the heart of the town.
Recommended places to stay for cyclists
Boutique B&B: East Ayton Lodge
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
(c) Andrews Walks
AM
The long, blue flag, sandy beach at North Bay has a distinctly wilder feel than the more commercialised South Bay. The rocky outcrops at the north end of the beach become cut off at high tide, so anyone planning a rock pooling trip should check tide times before setting out.
The famous Cleveland way runs along the cliffs here, and this rugged coastal path doesn't disappoint. With views of the neighbouring bays, a seal colony further up at Ravenscar and towering cliffs, it's an invigorating choice.
North Bay is also a favourite amongst surfers who flock to the region's most consistent and popular breaks; there's no need to worry if you travel light; hire some kit from Dexter's Surf School, and you can do everything from surfing to paddleboarding all year round.
Recommended lunch spot:
Perfect for vegans/vegetarians: The Hideout Cafe, Kitchen & Bar
A fab spot with twists on classics using local produce and suppliers.
PM
After lunch, over the road is the Japanese-inspired Peasholm Park. Ranked as one of the top 10 parks in the UK, over the years, it's been famous for galas, firework displays, mock naval battles and musical festivals and is well worth stopping by.
You can explore the beautiful streams and waterfalls before hiring a boat, heading out onto the lake, and gazing up at the magnificent pagoda. Then, if the wooden bridge is open, climb up to the peaceful oriental garden at the top; it's well worth the short incline.
Recommended places to stay
Hotel and pool: Park Manor Hotel
This hotel is well-placed next to Peasholm Park and offers a welcome retreat from the days of exploring.
(c) Thomas Tolkien
AM
Nestled amongst the fresh seafood vendors facing the marina on the South Bay of Scarborough is a slipway where you can take an exhilarating blast around the Bay with Scarborough Speedboats.
Climb aboard for a thrilling fast ride across Scarborough's beautiful North and South Bays and experience twists and turns with speeds of well over 30 knots and scenery you can only savour whilst you are on the big blue.
Once you've got your breath back, stroll along the front and take the enchanting Central Tramway up the hill into the town centre. Built in 1881, it's one of the oldest cliff railways still running today and retains its Victorian charms.
At the top, you'll find an abundance of quaint independent retailers, be sure to check out the cobbles of Bar Street or the picturesque Crescent Gardens.
PM
Now it's time to jump right in at North Yorkshire Water Park. Situated on one of the largest natural watersport lakes in North Yorkshire, the sizeable aquatic centre boasts an array of watersports, including activities like the inflatable AquaPark course, stand-up pedal boarding, and wakeboarding.
There's a long list of water activities, but the new 250-metre zip line and 12-metre high climbing wall can't be missed.
Sit back and enjoy a great coffee in the new lakeside cafe with fantastic action views. Then, take a stroll, cycle or run around the circular 2.5km lakeside walk; you're welcome to bring your four-legged friend, too, providing they are on a lead.
On the journey back through the villages, stop at Seamer to dine at The Mayfield, which boasts a fantastic beer garden and is dog friendly.
Recommended dining spot
Country pub using local produce: The Copper Horse
Recommended places to stay
B&B: The Mayfield
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AM
Round off the week with a trip to Alpamare, Scarborough’s all-weather waterpark from the Alps. So whether you love wet and wild adventures or prefer to relax and unwind in the Wellness Spa - everyone will find their perfect experience here.
Hit the wave pool or head outside to the heated garden pool and infinity pool with stunning views out towards the North Bay.
Daredevils can take on the four adrenaline-pumping, state-of-the-art long water rides, but if relaxation is more your thing, head upstairs to the luxurious Wellness Spa and completes a circuit of unique steam and sauna experiences before ending in the breathtaking glass-fronted sauna with panoramic views across the Bay.
Dry off and head to the countryside to the beautiful Hayburn Wyke pub, nestled in a valley, for a cosy pub lunch.
Recommended lunch spot
Country pub: The Hayburn Wyke
This is a great all-rounder, perfect for cyclists, walkers and completely dog friendly.
Country pub: The Blacksmith Arms
PM
After a hearty lunch, head out on the trail by the pub across the fields and down the hill to see the secluded dual waterfall cascading onto the pebble and boulder beach.
This is a great place to take your four-legged friend, but be careful if they get overly eager to get to the bottom. The steps can be tricky if wet and covered with leaves, but they are worth navigating for this hidden gem's spoils.
Recommended dining spot:
End your journey with a night at The Blacksmith Arms, a real country pub with wholesome, homemade classics and a roaring log fire.
Sunday lunch hotspot: The Bryherstones
Recommended place to stay
Country lodges, a perfect place to relax and rewind: Apple Grove Country Park
Lovers Rock
If you are ready to embark on a thrilling journey across the Yorkshire Coast, start planning here with our interactive map, where curiosity knows no bounds.
We have done the hard work for you and mapped unknown territories, hidden gems, and extraordinary activities that you can add to your itinerary.
How to use:
Please select one of our six routes
Select from places to eat, play and stay
Members can save their favourites to the itinerary builder so you don't lose any of your favourites
Refine your search by what you need:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Places
⛽️ EV Charging
🅿️ Places to Park
♿︎ Wheelchair-Friendly Places
🚲 Cycling Routes
🚶♀️ Walking Routes
So strap yourselves in for an unforgettable road trip that will redefine how you explore our magnificent Yorkshire Coast - all at your fingertips!
The Bridlington route is abundant with nature
reserves, packed with wildlife and is an area
that rewards with historical charm and natural
beauty. You can create experiences that are
as energetic as you feel. So why not combine
thrill-seeking moments with more peaceful walks
to observe nature in its natural habitat?
Filey is perfect for surfing, walking and cycling
from coast and countryside and
steeped in seafaring history and fables,
so even a trip to the pub will likely result
in a lively chat with locals.
Check out the Hornsea route to see the market
town beauty against an eaten and
collapsing coastline. This hauntingly
the beautiful area stands proud and gives a
true Lakeland by the Sea experience.
Perfect to be explored at a slower pace,
packed with walks, hikes and cycling
throughout, outdoor enthusiasts and nature
lovers should set up base at one of the
many holiday parks in and around the area.
Scarborough is known for being England
seaside resort. Sure, you can expect the
iconic coastal scenery that everyone's
familiar with but let us show you the
unspoilt, rugged coastal paths,
awe-inspiring woodlands, adrenaline-pumping
water sports and not forgetting fantastic
food that will challenge your ideas of
this quaint coastal town.
The Withernsea route will guide you
through the wonderful wildness of this
often overlooked stretch of coastline.
Its fast-disappearing coastline and
ghosts of lost towns are inspirational for
many - you can certainly see echoes
of Tolkien’s Middle Earth as you explore
this hauntingly beautiful area.
Adventure awaits on Route YC and
we've got everything from
adrenaline-filled zip wires, awesome
hikes, world-class cycling and some
of the best surf in the UK.
Renowned local artist, Emma Stothard famed
for her intricate sculptures using touch and
unyielding metals and willow are woven into
delicate structures celebrating wild and
marine life throughout the Yorkshire Coast.
This itinerary is a great way to combine.
Sculpture with must-stop places to see
wild and marine life up close.
Visit the heart of the Yorkshire Coast
shellfish industry, and explore the old
the historic area of Bridlington and find
areas of outstanding beauty and wildlife.
If you are a cyclist or a walker, there are
plenty of great routes which will combine
coastal vistas and rural gems. Just make sure
you leave time to take in a world-class
show at The Theatre and sample the local
catch at local cafes and restaurants.
Heading out on your Route YC road trip
with your dog? Whether you're looking
for dog-friendly accommodation, food
and drink places, great beaches, and
dog walks, we have you covered whilst
you and your best friend holiday on the
Yorkshire Coast.
Walkers, cyclists and nature lovers will
be spoilt for choice on the Filey route.
It will take you past rugged shorelines
which are steeped in myth and legend,
including the newly discovered
shipwreck of the Bon Homme Richard,
through to quaint villages and bays
with an incredibly unique restaurant
known for its pies for every day of the year!
There's nothing better than getting the gang
together and discovering somewhere new.
Our Group's Guide gives you the perfect base
on each of our six routes, along with
suggestions on where to eat and
what to do with your tribe.
Think you know Scarborough? Think again!
This historic town is a great base to explore
coast and countryside with everything
an adventurer needs. With bays dedicated
to watersports, highwires and indoor and
outdoor waterparks and an abundance
of walking and cycling routes, this is a
route for people who love being active!
If you are up for taking on Route YC,
here are some of our ultimate places
to park up and play when you are on the
the road for seven days that will take you
along the best areas for you to get your
fix of panoramic coastal views.
The main town of Whitby has become
synonymous with Dracula and Goth
Weekend let us show you so much more than that.
It is steeped in heritage and each
coastal cove offers a host of hidden
gems to explore, with some outstanding
food to boot.
Need some inspiration to get you started?
Here's our mini guide to show you what
we love about the Whitby route which
will take you through the gothic, seafaring
town, and back out into the National Park
which has inspired many a film and TV series.
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