Did you know that Scarborough is Britain’s first seaside resort?
Back in 1626, a local woman named Thomasin Farrer made an amazing discovery. While walking along the North Yorkshire cliffs, she found mineral-rich spa waters running down the cliffs. People have been flocking to the North Yorkshire coast ever since.
This year marks the massive Scarborough 400 milestone. To celebrate this milestone, the town is hosting a series of events, it’s the perfect excuse for a family day out from Low Costa Mill.
Take on the Giant Deckchair Trail
To get in on the celebrations, we recommend a day exploring the Giant Deckchair Trail. This fun trail runs right through until September 6th.
Ten spectacularly oversized, brightly coloured deckchairs are dotted across the town. Following a route from Scarborough Station, through the town centre and to both the North and South Bay along the scenic coastline. Plus visit heritage spots like Peasholm Park and of course Scarborough Spa along the way.
We love this trail because it is a giant seaside treasure hunt, each giant chair features a unique, artist-designed nod to the town’s past and an opportunity to learn the local history. It’s a brilliant excuse for some fun holiday photos, sit on the chair and strike a pose!
Dive Deeper into 400 years of History
If you want to explore beyond the trail, several brilliant exhibitions are running alongside it. These displays tell the full story of the town’s evolution.
Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre: This volunteer-led museum has a dedicated Scarborough 400 exhibition running until December. It is the perfect place to learn about Thomasin Farrer.
Scarborough Library: Throughout August, they are hosting a nostalgic archive exhibition. It offers a wonderful look at the town’s tourism history using rare local photos.
Scarborough Art Gallery: Launching later in September, their Dive In! exhibition takes a deeper look at the social history of sea bathing.
The Heart of the Anniversary: Scarborough Spa
You cannot celebrate Scarborough’s birthday without visiting the iconic Scarborough Spa. This grand building sits proudly on the South Bay.
Although the public stopped drinking the mineral waters in the 1960s, the venue remains the cultural heart of the resort. Today, the Spa is fully leaning into the 1626 celebrations with a packed event calendar.
The Scarborough Spa Orchestra: This legendary orchestra dates back to 1912. They are performing regular morning and evening concerts in the beautiful open-air Sun Court.
Summer Festivals & Shows: The venue is playing host to everything from free music sessions in the Scarborough Spa Sun Court, to touring music icons. Kids will also love the lively summer magic shows.
Join in the Coastal Fun
If you are staying with us at Low Costa Mill this summer, we highly recommend visiting. The trail and exhibitions are completely free and totally relaxed, there’s plenty of opportunity to stop in our favourite Harbour Bar for an ice-cream sundae.
Don’t forget to share your photos with us online. Let us know which deckchair design is your favourite!