Scarborough is a popular resort town, which has become a go-to holiday destination in Yorkshire. On a summer day, travellers flock to the iconic South Bay beach to lie on the sand or dip their toes in the water. Others may walk down the harbour, explore the Old Town or enjoy fantastic views from Scarborough Castle. However, there are plenty of other exciting and lesser-known activities that you may want to try during your next visit.
1. Learn how to surf
Scarborough is well known for its world-class waves, making it an ideal destination for experienced and beginner surfers. Surfing is both an exciting and challenging sport. All waves are different. In addition, elements like the wind, tides and swells can impact the waves you surf every day. Fortunately, there are several schools offering one-to-one lessons and group classes in Scarborough.
Some of the schools have other exciting water sports such as standup paddleboarding and coasteering. The latter is a mix of swimming, exploring caves and rock formations, and climbing and jumping off cliffs.
2. Celebrate Pancake Day
Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday, is a traditional feast date before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday and 47 days before Easter Sunday. Although the date varies every year, it falls between the 3rd of February and the 9th of March.
In the UK, you can join Pancake Day races where numerous people carry a frying pan with a cooked pancake in it and flip it as they run to the finish line. Scarborough is no stranger to this celebration.
Skipping Day also takes place on Shrove Tuesday. Scarborough schools give students half a day off to head down to the seafront with their skipping ropes. The road is closed off to traffic so children and their families can enjoy various skipping games.
3. Play golf
Golf is a personal sport, but also an activity that can be enjoyed with the whole family. You’ll find two golf courses in Scarborough: Scarborough North Cliff and South Cliff Golf Club. Another option is the Snainton Golf Centre, which boasts an 18-bay driving range and a 9-hole golf course. For those who prefer having fun without worrying too much about rules or scores, the mini-golf course at Sea Life Scarborough is a better alternative.
4. Take a trip on a pirate ship
Pirate enthusiasts have the unique opportunity to sail on a pirate ship. In 1949, a replica of an 18th-century vessel began sailing in Scarborough waters. Named The Hispaniola after the pirate ship in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, it travels along the South Bay, taking passengers on a short route from the harbour and back.
5. Try your luck at the casino
Those over 18 looking for thrill and adventure can try their luck at the Opera House Casino. The European-style casino hosts live table gaming daily and offers 3 Card Poker, American Roulette and Blackjack. It also has two bars with an extensive drink selection. But gamblers who prefer online casinos can always visit sites such as Bitcasino.io (https://bitcasino.io/categories/live-game-shows) during their stay at Scarborough.