As one of the UK’s most popular destinations, families flock to Scarborough’s seafront throughout the summer for days out, weekend trips and weeks away. The town spreads across the glorious coastline from the South Bay to the North Bay, with lots of family-friendly attractions to visit throughout.

Walking Scarborough’s bays is an enjoyable yet exhausting experience for young and old; so, the town’s open top tour bus – with all day unlimited rides £16 for four people – is a relief for families to get around all their Scarborough favourites whilst resting weary legs. With that in mind, we hopped on and hopped off the Beachcomber bus for a family friendly day out in Scarborough…

Visit the Trampoline and Bumper Cars on South Bay beach

Scarborough’s South Bay beach fills with families enjoying sand, sea and sometimes sun. As well as the natural attractions, there’s endless entertainment and activities here too, notably the trampoline and bumper cars right by the beach. Kids can bounce and bump happily whilst parents take in this unique seaside setting.

Go to the Scarborough Joke and Magic Shop

Winding up the street from the beachfront, specialist shops appear, none more so than the Scarborough Joke and Magic Shop. You’ll be drawn toward the bright corner exterior, and head inside this famous Scarborough store which has been selling practical jokes, novelties, fancy dress and magic since the eighties. It’s a riotous visit, and what you leave here with will no doubt keep everyone laughing throughout the holiday.

Get some rock and candy floss from John Bull Confectioners

All the seaside classics are all over Scarborough’s South Bay promenade, including the finest traditional sweet treats from the Yorkshire coast’s premier confectioners, John Bull. There’s chocolate and candy galore, and we’re chomping on the headliners of rock and candy floss. When in Scarborough.

Play in the Arcades

It wouldn’t be a trip to the seaside without a play in the Arcades, and Scarborough provides plenty. Unmissable along the South Bay promenade are the lights and noises of Olympia Leisure, Penny Arcade and more. Step inside for the timeless fun of slot machines, crane grabbers, donkey derbies, video games, and all your favourite amusements.

Grab a chippy from The Anchor Fish and Chips

There’s something irresistible about fish and chips by the English sea, and we all know that Yorkshire does it best. Of the dozens of excellent fish and chippies across Scarborough, we’re staying on the south seafront to scoff on big portions and fresh flavours at The Anchor. You can takeaway or grab a table and bench inside or out for fab fish and chips with a view.

Visit Luna Park Scarborough

As if Scarborough hasn’t provided enough family fun already, we’re ramping it up with a visit to the funfair! Luna Park is an action packed adrenaline rush of rides and games for little ones and big kids. From Hook-a-Duck to Race-o-Rama, there’s memories to be made for all ages.

Take a walk to Scarborough Castle

Away from the seaside entertainment of the South Bay, take in some culture with a walk around Scarborough Castle. With 3000 years of history, this former medieval royal fortress is a fascinating visit, and its stunning location overlooking the North Sea offers wonderful panoramic views across the town.

Play in Hairy Bob’s Skatepark

Scarborough’s North Bay has a slightly more laid back feel than the vibrant South Bay, whilst offering up equally excellent attractions. The Beachcomber will bus you here, and on the way we’re hopping off at Hairy Bob’s Skatepark. This fantastic outside space has a bowl area and a street area, with something for all skating abilities to experience, before hopping back on the Beachcomber to hit the North Bay!

Images- @officaleybuses, @olympialeisure