22 April 2024 , 09:47
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An iconic coastal location has been named the UK's top holiday destination as well as the country's “most beautiful seaside resort".
With summer just around the corner and the treat of warmer, sunnier weather looming, now is the time to start planning a trip or two to somewhere beautiful. Those living in the UK have access to dozens of charming villages, bustling cities and coastal spots that are rarely more than a few hours away.
Scarborough, a charming seaside town nestled in North Yorkshire, England, is one of them and has been making waves for its breath-taking coastline and spectacular views over the North Sea.
Not only is it a stone's throw from the majestic North York Moors National Park, but it also boasts rugged cliffs, sweeping golden beaches, and the historic Scarborough Castle, which proudly stands guard over the ocean. Time Out magazine crowned Scarborough one of the must-visit destinations in the UK for 2023, while CN Traveller has lavished praise on it, calling it the "most beautiful seaside resort in England" thanks to its storied past.
Scarborough has been named England's 'most beautiful' seaside resort ((Image: Getty))CN Traveller penned: "The dramatic castle occupies the headland which separates the two main bays steep cliffs stretching away in both directions. The old town ascends the slope to the castle in a maze of crooked streets, with buildings dating back to Tudor times."
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A must-see attraction is the vibrant Scarborough Fair Collection, home to Europe's largest assortment of vintage fairground rides and vehicles. The original Fair is the subject of a traditional English folk ballad that was immortalised by American duo Simon and Garfunkel, the Express reports.
Today the museum offers a unique perspective on history as well as having bumper cars, penny arcades, a merry-go-round ,plus afternoon tea in front of a stage show.
Another wonderful place to visit is Scarborough Rotunda Museum, a Jurassic geology museum which explores 65 million years of history and features thousands of fossils, dinosaur footprints plus a Speeton Plesiosaur skeleton. It is free for those under 18 to visit and only costs £5 for adults, which includes admission to the Scarborough Art Gallery as well.
No seaside holiday would be complete without a visit to the beach, and Scarborough offers two lovely spots - the North and South Bay. South Bay Beach is best for a family day out. It was extremely popular during the Victorian era, and still offers a similar kind of charm today through donkey rides and a bustling prom filled with activities.
North Bay Beach is much quieter and the perfect spot to relax or take a walk with a camera as there are many rocky pools and beautiful vintage beach huts to explore - all set on a backdrop of beautiful hills and cliffs. Both beaches are separated by the ruins of the majestic Scarborough Castle, a 12th-century castle which has endured attacks from the Vikings and played a significant role as a royalist keep during the Civil War.
After a day of poking around, the Scarborough Castle Great Tea Room is a must-visit. It has charming views of both beaches and serves homemade cakes, jams, and other cosy treats and beverages.
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