Scarborough Castle
Explore 3,000 years of history at Scarborough Castle, perched high on a headland with stunning sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Scarborough Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 3,000 years of history at Scarborough Castle, perched high on a headland with stunning sea views.
"Breathtaking views and a deep dive into history make this castle a must-visit."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for exploring the castle grounds!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with fascinating stories and historical context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Tower Ruins
Central Keep Area
Explore the remnants of the imposing 12th-century Great Tower, a testament to medieval power.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Castle Walls and Headland
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Scarborough's North and South Bays from the castle ramparts.
The King's Observatory
Highest Point
Discover this unique structure offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the town and sea.
Medieval Reenactments
Various Locations on Site
Witness history come alive with engaging reenactments and living history demonstrations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Accessibility and Navigating the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for exploring the castle grounds!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with fascinating stories and historical context.
☀️ Check the Weather
It can get windy on the headland, so dress in layers.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Activities
Look out for 'Taskmaster' style challenges for kids, making history interactive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for exploring the castle grounds!
🎧 Grab an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with fascinating stories and historical context.
☀️ Check the Weather
It can get windy on the headland, so dress in layers.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Activities
Look out for 'Taskmaster' style challenges for kids, making history interactive.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The panoramic sea views are incredible for photos. 
🎟️ Consider Membership
If you plan to visit multiple English Heritage sites, membership can save money.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Scarborough Castle for its breathtaking coastal views and rich historical significance, spanning thousands of years. The efforts made by English Heritage to improve accessibility and provide engaging activities for families are also frequently highlighted. While the castle is largely ruins, the expansive grounds and informative resources offer a rewarding experience, especially on a pleasant day.
"We used our English Heritage membership for entry to Scarborough castle for a slightly more relaxed hour or two after visiting a rather busy south bay area! The walk up the hill to the castle was broken up by a quick play on the playground...
Upon entering we was given the option of audio guides and also advised that there was some taskmaster activities, which obviously appealed to the kids as they have limited attention for actually going round the castle ruins!
After listening and reading about some of the history we proceeded to the taskmaster activities, given instruction on how it runs and got started. There were 6 activities in total, all slightly different. These are great if you can be in a group of 4 to 6 people (with one acting as the scorer / judge for points). Kids (and grown ups) all enjoyed this and it was a bit different! After taking some 'winner' photos we carried on round the headland.
The views from the headland / castle are wonderful, and there is so much history to learn about. They did have some guided tours which when I listened in on one sounded really informative! It's useful as a reminder that in terms of a castle there is not much left, you can climb part of the keep and walls and walk round the headland area.
We enjoyed our visit, and the weather being pretty good certainly helped!"
Andrew Cartwright
"Visited today with my wheelchair bound mother, we were initially concerned regarding wheelchair access but the gentleman on the gate was extremely helpful and allowed me to drive into the Castle grounds and park closer.
Whilst pushing the wheelchair over the grassed areas and sloped sections proved to be a bit of a challenge, it didn't stop us from having a wonderful experience and see some magnificent views.
The coffee hut provided us with welcomed refreshments and scones and there were plenty of seating areas, some that catered for wheelchair users too.
All of the staff were extremely friendly and very helpful too.
The Audio Guide Devices are a great idea, they allow you to navigate the site at your own pace and gives you the freedom to roam around at will.
Our visit excelled my expectations, so I do recommend a visit. 👍🏻"
Lester Maughan (*-jester-*)
"National Heritage site. Beautiful views over both the North Bay and the South Bay. Great place to walk along the cliff path. Exhibitions to see, refreshments available at the Refreshment Shed. Clean public conveniences. Plenty of picnic tables and games for kids
Access to most mobilities, quite a steep road and slope up to the castle itself. No problems for mobility scooter but a hard slog for people who have weakened walking.
Weather on the day we visited was glorious, if a little windy"
Cath Fielding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scarborough Castle is situated on a prominent headland between the town's two bays. You can reach it by walking from the town center, which involves a climb up the hill. Parking is available nearby, and some reviewers mentioned being allowed to drive closer to the grounds for accessibility needs.
Yes, there are several car parks in Scarborough town center, a short walk from the castle. Some visitors have noted that driving into the castle grounds might be possible for those with mobility issues, with staff assistance.
Scarborough has a train station, and buses run frequently throughout the town. From the town center, it's a walk up to the castle. The Northern Belle train is even named 'Scarborough Castle'!
English Heritage has made efforts to improve accessibility with step-free routes to key areas and accessible toilets. However, some grassy and sloped sections can be challenging. Staff are generally very helpful.
Many visitors recommend exploring on foot, taking advantage of the audio guides to learn about the history. The expansive grounds offer plenty of space to wander and enjoy the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply, but English Heritage members get free entry. It's advisable to check the official English Heritage website for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase on the day of your visit. However, booking in advance online might sometimes offer a slight discount or guarantee entry during busy periods.
Ukrainian visitors often receive free entry to English Heritage sites, including Scarborough Castle. Membership to English Heritage also grants free access to all their properties.
While not always mandatory, booking timed entry slots online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to ensure smooth entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the ruins of the Great Tower, walk the ramparts for stunning coastal views, discover the medieval layout, and learn about its rich history from the Iron Age to WWI. There are also often reenactments and family activities.
Yes, children often enjoy the open spaces, the 'Taskmaster' style activities, and the historical intrigue. The views are also a big hit.
Guided tours are often offered and are reported to be very informative, providing deeper insights into the castle's history. Check the schedule upon arrival.
The site has over 3,000 years of history, from an Iron Age settlement to a medieval royal castle, and even saw action during WWI.
Visitors can climb parts of the keep and walk along some of the accessible walls, offering excellent vantage points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a refreshment shed or cafe on-site offering drinks, snacks, and sometimes scones. You can also find picnic tables if you prefer to bring your own food.
Absolutely! There are plenty of picnic tables available, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch with a view.
Scarborough town center, just a short walk down the hill, offers a wide variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the North and South Bays. The ruins themselves, especially the Great Tower, are also very photogenic.
Drone usage is generally restricted at historical sites like Scarborough Castle to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. Always check the specific site's regulations.
Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting for photos, but the views are spectacular throughout the day. Midday can be bright, but the sea air often adds a dramatic element.
The imposing ruins of the 12th-century Great Tower, the curtain walls, and the King's Observatory are particularly striking architectural elements.
Yes, photography is usually permitted during reenactments, offering dynamic shots of historical performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb to the castle can be a bit of a slog, the rewarding views and interactive elements make it worthwhile. Consider the accessibility notes if you have very young children or strollers, though staff are generally very helpful. The nearby beach and town offer further entertainment options for a full day out.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Walking from the town center is free and offers a chance to see more of Scarborough. While there's a refreshment shed on-site, opting for your own provisions will significantly cut down costs. The historical insights and stunning views provide a rich experience without breaking the bank.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Concerns
Staff are known for being very helpful and may allow closer vehicle access for those who need it. It's advisable to contact the castle in advance if you have specific mobility concerns to discuss the best way to navigate the site. The views from the accessible areas are still spectacular, offering a rewarding experience even if not all parts of the castle can be reached.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Scarborough Castle's Rich History
+1The castle played a significant role in various conflicts throughout the centuries. It was besieged during the First Barons' War and later during the English Civil War, where it changed hands multiple times. A more recent, and rather dramatic, chapter in its history occurred during World War I when the castle was shelled by German warships in 1914, causing significant damage. This event is a stark reminder of the castle's strategic importance and its vulnerability to modern warfare.
Today, managed by English Heritage, Scarborough Castle stands as a testament to its enduring past. Visitors can explore the remains of the medieval fortifications, learn about the different historical periods through exhibitions and audio guides, and appreciate the strategic significance of its location. The blend of ancient earthworks, medieval ruins, and its dramatic coastal setting makes it a compelling historical site.
+1Experiencing Scarborough Castle: Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Despite these improvements, the castle's location on a steep headland means that some areas, particularly grassy slopes and uneven terrain, can still pose challenges for wheelchair users or individuals with significant mobility impairments. However, many visitors have reported that the staff are exceptionally helpful and accommodating, with some even being allowed to drive closer to the grounds for easier access. The availability of audio guides allows visitors to explore the site at their own pace, providing flexibility for all mobility levels.
Beyond accessibility, visitor comfort is also considered. Refreshment facilities, including a coffee hut or cafe, are available, offering welcome breaks with drinks and snacks. Plenty of seating areas are dotted around the grounds, providing spots to rest and enjoy the magnificent views. The presence of picnic tables further enhances the visitor experience, allowing families and groups to enjoy a meal amidst the historical surroundings.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Scarborough Castle
+1The castle ruins themselves provide a dramatic and historic backdrop. The imposing remains of the 12th-century Great Tower, the rugged curtain walls, and the unique King's Observatory are all excellent subjects. Photographers can play with different angles and perspectives to highlight the scale and age of the fortifications. The interplay of ancient stone against the backdrop of the sea and sky creates compelling compositions.
+1Beyond the grand vistas and architectural details, capturing the atmosphere is also key. Look for opportunities to photograph the historical reenactments, the seabirds soaring overhead, or the details of the stonework weathered by centuries of wind and rain. The castle grounds also offer opportunities for more intimate shots, focusing on textures, shadows, and the sense of history that permeates the site.
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