Located on the North Sea cost of North Yorkshire the town of Scarborough was settled around 966AD by the Viking raider Thorgils Skarthi. There is evidence of settlements prior to the official settling by the Viking, some of them dating back to the Stone Age and Bronze Age. Thanks to its picturesque location Scarborough is North Yorkshire England's largest holiday resort.

Perched high on the rocky promontory that overlooking the two bays, sits the ruins of the Scarborough Castle. The natural fortress was home to prehistoric settlers and served the Romans as a signal station and a safe haven for the Vikings. The castle has endured sieges and battles. Today the ruins are a popular visitor stop. The beautiful coastlines and the opportunity to have tea in the Gunnery House makes for a good afternoon.

During your stay in Scarborough the Rotunda William Smith Museum of Geology is an interesting stop. Not only will you get to learn about the geology of the area but you will also get to visit one of the oldest museums in Britain. Built in 1828 to the specification of William Smith, considered to be the father of English geology, the Rotunda is the second oldest purpose-built museum in Britain. During your visit you will get to see local history, a shell gallery and hands on experience of the coastline treasures.

Another neat place to check out during your stay is the Stained Glass Center. Tours of the studios allows visitors to see an exhibition of the history of stained glass and can see how windows are made.

Located in the Italiante villa that was built in 1840 the Scarborough Art Gallery is home to a collection of fine art. You will find paintings by Grimshaw, Dade, Carter, and Mason. The lively exhibition features contemporary work as well as older pieces.

Families can enjoy the animal life at the Playdale Farm Park. You get to cuddle with animals like pigs, ducks, geese, rabbits, hens, chinchillas, and alpacas. There are also playgrounds indoors and out. There is a straw maze, picnic area, ball pool, adventure trails, and a tractor zone. There is also a gift shop and cafe for you to enjoy during your visit.

Of course farm animals aren't the only animals for families to see. The Scarborough Sea life and Marine Sanctuary can transport your family to an up close and personal with some of the most interesting animals in the sea. You can see sharks, rays, and turtles as well as otters, seals, and penguins. There are feeding demonstrations, trails and talks that will give you a lot of information on the fish facts that will fascinate the entire families.

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