Scarborough Castle

Scarborough Castle is a stone fortress built on a steep headland between two bays, rising about 90 meters above the North Sea coast. The site contains multiple structures including towers and walls that reveal different building periods.

The castle was founded in 1130 and acquired its distinctive form under King Henry II, who added the great tower. It later served as a military stronghold and prison before becoming a ruin in the 18th century.

The castle displays artifacts and objects from different periods of its occupation, helping visitors understand how people lived and worked within its walls. These items reveal everyday details about medieval and later life on this headland.

The site has a visitor center, museum shop, and parking facilities that make access convenient. The pathways are steep and uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore at your own pace.

German warships bombarded this castle during World War I, causing major damage to the keep and surrounding walls. The scars from these attacks remain visible on the stonework today.

Location: North Yorkshire

Operator: English Heritage

Address: Castle Rd, Scarborough YO11 1HY

Phone: 03703331181

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/scarborough-castle

GPS coordinates: 54.28740,-0.38842

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:28