Scarborough Vacation Rentals
Explore 31 rental homes and villas in Scarborough for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Pet-Friendly Homes, Best Affordable Homes and Great for Groups. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $84 per night with homes containing as many as 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Scarborough Overview
Nestled along the picturesque North Sea coast, Scarborough, England, is a charming seaside gem that beckons with its blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and engaging attractions. The town is renowned for its two pristine sandy beaches, North Bay and South Bay, which are cradled by a rugged headland crowned by the imposing Scarborough Castle. This medieval fortress not only offers a glimpse into the past but also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and beyond.
Scarborough's allure is magnified by the opportunity to stay in a private home, offering a more intimate and personalized experience. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves in a cozy beachfront cottage or enjoying the sunset from the garden of a cliff-top house. Many of these homes are pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry companions can join in on the seaside adventures. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, select rental homes come equipped with their own swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of exploring.
The town's waterfront is the heart of Scarborough, where the beach life thrives. Stroll along the vibrant promenade at South Bay, lined with quaint shops and classic eateries serving up the quintessential British seaside fare of fish and chips. The historic Scarborough Spa and the modern Open Air Theatre offer cultural delights, while the SEA LIFE Sanctuary provides an immersive marine experience for all ages.
Reaching Scarborough is a breeze, with convenient train services connecting it to major cities like York, Leeds, and Manchester. Although direct trains from London King's Cross are no longer available, a simple change in York will have you at this coastal sanctuary in no time. Upon arrival, the town's compact nature makes it a joy to explore on foot, especially the pedestrian-friendly South Bay area.
In essence, Scarborough is a destination that promises enchanting coastal charm, a wealth of attractions, and the comfort of a home away from home. Whether you're delving into the history at Scarborough Castle, basking on the sun-kissed beaches, or simply relaxing in the privacy of your own rental home, this seaside town is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Cultural Attractions in Scarborough
Scarborough, England, is a destination rich in culture, offering a plethora of activities for those who appreciate arts, history, and local traditions. The town's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved medieval structures, including the iconic Scarborough Castle that offers breathtaking views of the town and sea.
Art lovers will find pleasure in visiting the Scarborough Art Gallery located in an Italianate villa. The gallery houses a collection of fine art spanning several centuries. For those interested in contemporary art, Crescent Arts provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work.
History enthusiasts can explore Scarborough's past at the Rotunda Museum. This intriguing geological museum provides insights into the region's Jurassic history and displays numerous archaeological artifacts. The Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre is another must-visit site for those keen on maritime history.
Live music performances are available at various venues throughout the town. The Stephen Joseph Theatre hosts an array of performances including drama, music and comedy shows. Classical music concerts are often held at St Martin-on-the-Hill church.
Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs through events like Seafest Maritime Festival which celebrates Scarborough's maritime heritage with live music, seafood cookery demonstrations and craft workshops. The annual Scarborough Fair is another popular event where visitors can enjoy traditional fairground rides and games.
Scarborough also features numerous galleries that exhibit local artists' work such as Oxley’s Studios & Gallery on Victoria Road and Woodend Creative Workspace situated in a former residence of explorer Captain Cook’s family.
In terms of walkability, Scarborough is quite pedestrian-friendly with many attractions located within walking distance from each other in the town centre. However, to explore further such as visiting nearby villages or hiking in North York Moors National Park you may want to consider renting a car or using public transportation like buses or trains.
Family friendly activities in Scarborough
Scarborough, England is indeed a delightful coastal town that presents an array of attractions suitable for children. The SEA LIFE Scarborough is a must-see, showcasing a variety of marine creatures from penguins to sharks. Children particularly enjoy the interactive rock pool experience and the penguin feeding demonstrations.
Peasholm Park provides outdoor entertainment with its oriental theme. It features pedal boats on the lake, a mini-golf course, and the Naval Warfare – a unique miniature sea battle reenactment that has been entertaining families for generations.
The North Bay Railway is another child-friendly attraction. This historic miniature railway transports passengers on a picturesque journey from Peasholm Park to Scalby Mills stations, offering stunning views of Scarborough's North Bay.
Alpamare Waterpark caters to both older kids with its exciting water rides and wave pools, and adults with its relaxing wellness areas. It's an excellent spot for family fun regardless of weather conditions.
Scarborough Castle stands majestically on a hill overlooking both bays of the town, providing an intriguing peek into history. Children can wander through the ruins and appreciate panoramic views of the coastline.
Lastly, no trip to Scarborough would be complete without spending time on its gorgeous beaches. Both North Bay and South Bay feature golden sands ideal for building sandcastles and safe waters for paddling.
In conclusion, Scarborough offers numerous child-friendly attractions ranging from educational experiences at SEA LIFE to outdoor adventures in Peasholm Park or at one of its lovely beaches. It's an ideal destination for families seeking both fun and relaxation.
Outdoor activities in Scarborough
Scarborough, England, truly is a paradise for those who appreciate the great outdoors and natural beauty. Nestled between the North Sea and the North York Moors National Park, it offers a diverse range of natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
A visit to the North York Moors National Park is essential. This expansive heather moorland is laced with trails perfect for walking, cycling, and horse riding. It's also a haven for bird watchers with species such as curlew and golden plover residing here.
The coastline of Scarborough offers numerous water-based activities. The town's two sandy beaches are ideal for surfing while sea kayaking allows exploration of the rugged coastline. For those who prefer dry land, the Cleveland Way National Trail follows the cliff tops providing breathtaking sea views.
Peasholm Park is another highlight in Scarborough. This oriental-themed park boasts a beautiful lake where visitors can rent boats or watch naval warfare reenactments during summer. Its tranquil gardens are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Bird enthusiasts should not miss Bempton Cliffs. This RSPB reserve hosts England's largest population of seabirds, including puffins and gannets.
Lastly, Dalby Forest provides an escape from coastal winds with its sheltered valleys full of walking and cycling trails. It's also one of three Dark Sky Discovery Sites in North York Moors National Park - an ideal spot for stargazing on clear nights.
In summary, Scarborough makes connecting with nature effortless whether you're hiking across moorlands, bird watching on cliffs or exploring forests under starlit skies.
Weather in Scarborough
Scarborough, England, is characterized by a temperate maritime climate, meaning it experiences mild summers and cool winters. The town's coastal location on the North Sea influences its weather patterns, resulting in a relatively high level of humidity throughout the year.
During the summer months from June to August, temperatures typically average around 18°C. These months also see the most sunshine hours per day, making it an ideal time for beach activities and exploring outdoor attractions. However, summer is also when Scarborough receives most of its rainfall due to occasional thunderstorms.
The winter months from December to February are cooler with average temperatures often dipping down to 2°C. Snowfall in Scarborough is infrequent but does occur a few days most winters. Despite the chillier conditions, winter offers a different kind of charm with festive decorations around town and fewer tourists.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons with temperatures generally ranging between 8°C-15°C in spring and 10°C-16°C in autumn. These periods see less rainfall than summer but can still have occasional showers.
The most popular time to visit Scarborough is during the summer months when the weather is warmest and days are longest. However, if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, spring and autumn can be equally enjoyable times to visit this charming seaside town. Regardless of when you choose to travel, remember that British weather can be unpredictable so packing layers is always a good idea!
Transportation in Scarborough
Visitors to Scarborough, England, can expect a range of transportation options. Arrival is typically by train or car, with the town boasting a well-linked railway station offering direct services from key cities such as London, Leeds, and York. For those who prefer to drive themselves, Scarborough is conveniently reachable via the A64 from York and the A165/A170 from Hull and Bridlington.
Once in town, movement is made easy with a dependable local bus service that links different parts of the town and surrounding villages. Taxis are also an option for those seeking a more direct route.
Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate Scarborough's numerous picturesque bike paths along the coast and through rural areas. Bike rentals are available for those who do not bring their own.
The town of Scarborough is notably pedestrian-friendly, particularly within the town center where many attractions are situated closely together. A walk along the seafront promenade comes highly recommended for its breathtaking views of the North Sea and Scarborough Castle.
However, it should be noted that visiting some attractions outside of the town center such as North Yorkshire Moors National Park or Bempton Cliffs may necessitate using public transport or driving.
To summarize, whether arriving by train or car and getting around by bus or foot, Scarborough offers a variety of transportation choices that meet every traveler's needs.