LET’S MOVE TO
Neighbourhood know-how, people and places
If you’re thinking of a move to the coast, you’re not alone. Fuelled by post-Covid lifestyle-reassessment, more flexible working and cheaper property prices, Scarborough is having a bit of a moment with people moving from the cities – you can’t move without falling over a ‘UFL’ (Up From London).
They’re very welcome, of course, bringing new thinking, new skills and new money to a town which, like so many seaside resorts, began to flounder a little when its sense of purpose was undermined by cheap package holidays at the end of the 20th century.
Scarborough is something of a grand old dame of resorts, one of the very first – it was attracting visitors as long ago as the 1600s, when its allegedly health-giving spa waters were first discovered by the enterprising local lady, Thomasin Farrer. But it’s the town’s natural beauty that has keep people coming ever since.
EXPLORE
It’s a hilly old place, so be prepared for your step count to increase, but Scarborough is great to explore. The town centre has lots of interesting independent shops – head down Bar Street and Huntriss Row, or to the Market Hall which, as well as the usual fruit and veg stalls, butcher, baker and fishmonger, has interesting places to eat and tiny independent shops on a gallery and in the labyrinthine vaults below. Look out for traditional treats at Ye Olde Sweet Shoppe, and a wide range of bee products at The Honeycomb Shop. Locals will also recommend pretty Homebird House, opposite the Market Hall’s main entrance, for imaginative gifts.
There are interesting shops and cafés on two main thoroughfares just outside the town centre – both within easy walking distance – Ramshill and Falsgrave. At Ramshill look out for chocolate shop Arosa Confiserie, famous for its homemade walnut whips, while Falsgrave is home to a treasure trove of nostalgia at Victor’s Vinyl and Vintage.
Wellbeing is the word of the moment. In Scarborough, you can take it a step further by looking after your four-legged friend’s mental health at Snuffl, just off the seafront. It’s an indoor sensory dog garden, and promises to enhance confidence, bust stress and boost brainpower. Let’s face it, what’s good for your dog is probably good for you!
Scarborough’s great for culture vultures, with top acts and shows at the Open Air Theatre, the Stephen Joseph Theatre and the Spa; and regular art exhibitions at the town’s Art Gallery, on the Crescent; the Old Parcels Office in the railway station; and smaller independent
