Places you may not know about
- Jonah's Field
Jonah's Field is a unique sculpture park located in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. The park is home to a collection of stone sculptures inspired by the Moai statues of Easter Island, created by artist Robert E. Fuller. The sculptures are meant to represent different human emotions and experiences and are arranged throughout the field.
Visitors to Jonah's Field can enjoy a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere The sculptures are large and impressive, with some reaching over 10 feet in height. They are made from a variety of local stones, and each has a unique texture and appearance.
There are also benches where visitors can sit and enjoy the beautiful views.
Overall, Jonah's Field is a unique and memorable destination for anyone visiting Scarborough. Its combination of impressive sculptures and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit location for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
2. Shuttleworth Gardens with fairy garden
The Shuttleworth Gardens, located in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, is a stunning display of horticultural artistry. The gardens are a true haven for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts. The gardens were created by Charles Hamilton between 1718 and 1730, for Alfred Shuttleworth who later donated them to the town. They are currently managed by the Scarborough Borough Council. These special sensory gardens are filled with strongly scented, fragrant plants and flowers in raised beds, which are particularly appreciated by the blind. They also include the popular Fairy Garden, which is a must-see for visitors of all ages.
The Fairy Garden, located within the heart of the gardens, is a whimsical and enchanting area that is designed to transport visitors to a magical world. The garden is adorned with fairy houses, grottoes, and other mystical features that are sure to capture the imagination of children and adults alike. The garden also features a range of flowers, plants, and shrubs that provide a vibrant and colourful backdrop for the fairies.
In addition to the Fairy Garden, the Shuttleworth Gardens boast a range of other features that are sure to impress visitors. These include a large pond, a rose garden, a walled garden, and numerous walking paths that wind through the lush greenery. There is also a café on-site where visitors can enjoy a hot drink or a light snack while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Overall, the Shuttleworth Gardens is a true gem of Scarborough, and the Fairy Garden is just one of the many attractions that make this garden so special. With its stunning array of plants, flowers, and features, this garden is a must-see for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and horticultural excellence.
3. Italian Gardens
The Italian Gardens in Scarborough are a beautifully landscaped garden located on the South Cliff, overlooking the North Sea. The gardens were designed in the early 20th century by landscape architect Harry W. Smith, and they feature a mix of Mediterranean and tropical plants that thrive in the coastal climate.
The gardens are arranged in a series of terraces that cascade down the cliff face, with wide paths and steps connecting the different levels. The terraces are bordered by low stone walls and lined with beds of colourful flowers, including roses ,lavender, and fuchsia.
At the centre of the gardens is a large, circular pond, surrounded by a paved walkway and a low stone wall. In the centre of the pond is a small island, which is
reached by a stone bridge. The island is home to a beautiful stone pavilion, which offers stunning views of the gardens and the sea beyond.
Throughout the gardens, there are a variety of decorative features, including fountains, statues, and ornamental urns. The gardens are a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, and they are particularly picturesque in the summer months, when the flowers are in full bloom.
The redevelopment of the south cliff gardens which was completed March 2023, includes the creation of an innovative new play area, which uses natural materials to blend into the landscape and reflect the gardens’ history, the staggered design of the play tower reflects the original design of the Paxton Observation Tower, which was demolished in 1920.
The play area is a part of the Clock Café family hub, which includes a chalet repurposed as accessible public toilets and changing facilities, and a wildflower meadow for nature play.
4. Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre
The Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre is a small museum located in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, dedicated to the town's maritime history. The museum tells the story of Scarborough's rich seafaring past, from the days of fishing and whaling to the more recent history of the town's role in World War II. The displays include a variety of artifacts and exhibits, such as models of ships, photographs, and interactive displays.
One of the highlights of the museum is the section dedicated to Scarborough's fishing heritage. Visitors can learn about the life of a fisherman in the early 20th century, including the equipment they used and the dangers they faced at sea. There is also a display on the town's historic lifeboat station, which has been saving lives since the early 1800s.
Another fascinating exhibit is the section on Scarborough's role in World War II. The town played an important role in the war effort, with its harbour being used as a base for submarines and naval vessels. Visitors can see a variety of artifacts from this period, including photographs, maps, and documents.
The Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the town's maritime history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the seafaring people who helped shape the town's identity.
5. Rotunda Museum
The Rotunda Museum in Scarborough is a fascinating museum that showcases the geological history of the area. It was built in 1829, making it one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the UK. The museum is housed in a stunning circular building that was designed by William Smith, who is often referred to as the 'father of English geology.'
The museum's collection features a range of geological specimens, including fossils, minerals, and rocks. Visitors can explore the history of the local area through exhibits that showcase the Jurassic Coast, which stretches from the south coast of England to the east coast of Scotland. The museum also houses a range of displays that explore the history of the building itself, including its construction and its use as a museum over the years.
One of the most impressive features of the Rotunda Museum is its stunning central staircase, which spirals up through the museum's three levels. The staircase provides visitors with a panoramic view of the museum's exhibits, and it is an impressive feat of engineering in its own right. The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits that are designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Visitors to the Rotunda Museum can also enjoy the museum's café, which serves a range of refreshments and light bites. The café is located on the top floor of the museum, and it offers stunning views of Scarborough's South Bay. There is also a gift shop on-site where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts.
Overall, the Rotunda Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in geology and natural history. With its impressive collection of specimens, stunning architecture, and engaging exhibits, the museum provides a unique insight into the geological history of Scarborough and the wider UK.
