Scarborough in North Yorkshire isn’t just a pretty seaside town; it’s a place rich with stories, legends, and surprises. The town’s varied appeal makes it perfect for a range of tours: history buffs love walking through old streets, while families enjoy exploring vibrant aquariums like Sea Life Scarborough. Whether you’re into spooky tales or learning about the town’s Roman roots, Scarborough has something just for you. Among the many options, the Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour and the Dark Tales Walking Tour stand out for their engaging storytelling and unique insights into this lively seaside resort.
Personally, we’re fans of walking tours that bring history to life, especially those with a humorous twist. The Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour offers a look at the town’s evolution from Roman settlement to Britain’s first seaside resort, with stops along Sandside and the historic funicular Tramway. For those who prefer a spooky night out, the Scarborough Ghost Walk doesn’t just tell ghost stories—it makes the past feel alive, one step at a time. And for underwater adventure, Sea Life Scarborough’s exhibits are perfect for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
1. Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour
At just about $13.50 per person for 1.5 hours, the Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the town’s roots. The tour covers Scarborough’s transformation from a Roman settlement to Britain’s first seaside resort, making it ideal for history lovers and curious wanderers alike. You’ll walk along Sandside, one of the town’s oldest streets, and learn how tourism took off here in the 18th century. A highlight is riding the historic funicular Tramway up onto St Nicholas Cliff, offering spectacular views of the castle and coast. The guide shares stories about the castle’s long history, adding depth to your visit.
What makes this tour stand out is its approachable price and engaging storytelling. The guide’s mix of humor and facts keeps the atmosphere lively. The reviews praise the experience as “amazing,” “informative,” and “funny”—a rare combination. If you want a relaxed but enriching introduction to Scarborough, this tour offers exceptional value. The walking pace is gentle, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, affordable introduction to Scarborough’s heritage, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
2. Sea Life Scarborough
For around $27, the Sea Life Scarborough is a full-day attraction that dives into the underwater world. This aquarium features a variety of marine life, including the new Turtle Rescue Centre, where you can see conservation efforts in action. Visitors love the immersive Ocean Tunnel, where sharks and rays glide overhead, creating a sense of walking under the sea. Kids and adults alike enjoy getting hands-on in the interactive rockpool exhibit, where starfish, crabs, and anemones are ready to be touched.
The highlight for many is the Turtle Rescue Centre—an impressive facility dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing turtles back into the wild. As one reviewer noted, “Bev the lady who gave talks was brilliant,” adding a personal touch to the educational experience. The aquarium offers a relaxed pace, making it suitable for families, groups, or solo visitors interested in marine life.
While it costs more than a walking tour, the value lies in its extensive exhibits and interactive experiences. It’s a perfect day out for those wanting an educational, fun, and memorable experience, especially on a rainy day or with children in tow.
Bottom Line: Sea Life Scarborough is a lively, educational attraction that offers hours of entertainment for marine lovers and families alike, at a reasonable price.
3. Scarborough: Dark Tales Walking Tour
At 85 minutes, the Dark Tales Walking Tour delivers a compact dose of spooky history. Starting from one of two locations (Leeds Fisheries or Foreshore Rd), this guided tour takes you through the seafront, old town, and haunted hotel, revealing Scarborough’s darker side. The guide shares stories of murders, crimes, and paranormal activity—perfect for those who enjoy ghost stories with a historical twist.
What makes this tour compelling is its theatrical storytelling, which makes legends and local folklore come alive. It’s not just about scares; it’s about understanding the town’s past through its ghostly tales. Tour members appreciate the mix of history and mystery, calling it “interesting and funny at the same time.” The tour ends at the Grand Hotel Scarborough, a site with its own ghostly reputation.
Ideal for history and ghost story fans, this tour provides a different perspective on Scarborough’s longstanding reputation for spooky tales. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of theatrics and don’t mind walking in the evening.
Bottom Line: An engaging, theatrical walk that blends local lore with historical facts, perfect for night owls and ghost story enthusiasts.
4. The Scarborough Ghost Walk
Known for its immersive storytelling, The Scarborough Ghost Walk takes about 75 minutes of your time, uncovering tales of those long gone. This tour invites you to experience the history of Scarborough through stories of its haunted places and figures from the past, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The tour uses photos to help visualize and deepen the connection to the stories, adding a layer of authenticity.
What makes this experience stand out is how it blends fact with storytelling, making history accessible and exciting. Whether it’s a family evening or a group outing, the walk provides a unique perspective on the town’s haunted reputation. The storytelling style is engaging, and the photos help anchor the tales in reality.
This tour is well-suited for those interested in ghosts, local legends, or simply wanting a different way to explore Scarborough’s history. Its compact length makes it easy to fit into an afternoon or evening plan.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a spooky, story-rich experience that feels authentic and immersive, this ghost walk offers an excellent way to explore Scarborough’s haunted past.
How to Choose Your Perfect Scarborough Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and time. For a deep dive into history with humor, the Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour is perfect. If you’re traveling with kids or want a hands-on marine experience, Sea Life Scarborough gives hours of engaging exhibits. Those seeking spooky stories and paranormal tales will find the Dark Tales Walking Tour and Ghost Walk ideal, with the latter being slightly shorter and more atmospheric.
Budget-conscious travelers should note that walking tours are inexpensive, while the aquarium offers more in-depth experiences at a higher price. If you’re pressed for time but want a memorable evening, the ghost-themed tours are a great choice. Planning ahead and checking availability is advised, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Scarborough offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether historical, spooky, or marine-focused. The Heritage of Scarborough Walking Tour and the Dark Tales Walking Tour stand out for their engaging storytelling, while the aquarium is perfect for family fun. For a spooky night with a theatrical twist, the Scarborough Ghost Walk remains a top pick.
To make the most of your trip, consider your personal interests and how much time you want to spend exploring. Booking early, especially for popular tours like the aquarium or ghost walks, helps ensure you won’t miss out. Whatever your style, Scarborough’s diverse tours promise memorable experiences that deepen your understanding and appreciation of this historic seaside town.