Probably the world's first seaside resort, Scarborough has attracted visitors from across the mainland and abroad for over 400 years. It has been described as the 'Queen of the Yorkshire Coast' and is area with many centuries of history dating from Roman and Viking times, through to its glory Victorian days as a fashionable spa town. It was by chance in 1626 that Mrs Thomasin Farrer discovered its natural springs bubbling beneath the cliffs. The therapeutic value of the mineral water brought people from far and wide to Scarborough. And the magnificent Georgian and Victorian hotels and boarding houses built to house the masses of visitors continue to line the North and South Cliffs today - reminders of the town's glorious past. The 12th century fortress castle on top of the headland effectively divides the town into two bays, and is a superb attraction with a splendid views over the town and coastline. And if that isn't enough for history buffs to take in, then Ann Bronte, third sister of the Bronte girls came to Scarborough as a governess. She is buried in the grounds of St Mary's Church. With its still busy fishing harbour and yachting marina it is an exciting place to visit, with all year round entertainment for the family. The Stephen Joseph Theatre hosts many plays by resident playwright Sir Alan Ayckbourn, and for those with more adventurous nightlife tastes there are dozens of pubs and clubs. Enjoying the countryside at the North York Moors National Park is a matter of a few minutes drive away, and Scarborough is the last leg of the Cleveland Way walk to Filey. The town also boasts something for every visitor and this can easily be checked out by watching the film 'Little Voice', starring Jane Horrocks, Brenda Blethyn and Sir Michael Caine. Scenic villages nearby include Ravenscar, Osgodby, Scalby, Cloughton, Snainton and Ganton.

For further information contact Scarborough Tourist Information Centre on (01723) 373333.