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Places of interest #5 in Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Scarborough North Bay Railway

4.6 · 2,053 reviews
Nostalgic and family-oriented
Scarborough North Bay Railway, Burniston Rd, Scarborough YO12 6PF, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The railway was originally constructed by the Scarborough Corporation as part of a larger North Bay development scheme.

2

The line includes a historic turntable used to reverse the locomotives at the Scalby Mills terminus.

3

Locomotive Neptune, a one-third scale Pacific locomotive, has been in service since 1931.

4

The railway tracks were part of the original 1931 layout and have seen continuous service for over nine decades.

5

The line features a specific 'station' at Peasholm Park that shares its design aesthetics with the surrounding 1930s park architecture.

Overview

The Scarborough North Bay Railway is a miniature heritage line running 0.8 miles along the coastline between Peasholm Park and Scalby Mills. Opened in 1931, it operates vintage steam and diesel locomotives on a 20-inch gauge track. The route offers elevated views of the North Sea and the Scarborough coastline. Passengers can alight at both the southern terminus near the park and the northern terminus near the Sea Life Centre. The railway currently maintains several historic locomotives, including the Neptune and Triton, which were built in the 1930s. The site features a historic boathouse and provides a direct link between the town's primary tourist amenities. Operations are conducted using open-air carriages suitable for coastal sightseeing.

Photo spot

The elevated coastal cliff path overlooking the tracks as the train rounds the curve near the Scalby Mills end.

Insider tips

Combine the train journey with a walk back along the coastal path to see the railway from different elevations.

Check the daily locomotive roster board at the station to see if the historic steam engine is running that day.

Sit on the right-hand side of the carriage when traveling north for the best unobstructed sea views.

What to avoid

Do not expect a long-distance commute; the journey is a short scenic experience and serves as a local attraction rather than transport.

Good to know

Operates primarily from late spring through autumn; closed during winter months. Always check the official website for daily operational status as it is weather-dependent.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on a clear weekday during the summer season to avoid weekend crowds and ensure better visibility.
Address
Scarborough North Bay Railway, Burniston Rd, Scarborough YO12 6PF, United Kingdom
54.293, -0.412
Get directions
Details
Heritage Equipment1931 Pacific locomotives and vintage carriages
Track Gauge20-inch miniature gauge

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on a clear weekday during the summer season to avoid weekend crowds and ensure better visibility..

The elevated coastal cliff path overlooking the tracks as the train rounds the curve near the Scalby Mills end.

Close by you'll find Peasholm Park, Scarborough Castle, SEA LIFE Scarborough.

United Kingdom

About Scarborough, North Yorkshire