The Esplanade South Cliff
Scenic promenade and gardens offering breathtaking sea views and access to coastal paths in Scarborough.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
The Esplanade South Cliff
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic promenade and gardens offering breathtaking sea views and access to coastal paths in Scarborough.
"Positively the finest promenade and views, above the town, with cliff lift to ska and unmissable Clock cafe for snacks or lunch."
🚶♀️ Stroll the Italian Gardens
Enjoy the recently renovated Italian Gardens for a peaceful walk and access to beaches. :walking:
🌊 Connect to Cleveland Way
The Esplanade links directly to the Cleveland Way for longer coastal hikes. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Italian Gardens & Clock Tower
South Cliff Gardens
Beautifully renovated gardens with a charming clock tower, perfect for a peaceful stroll and sea views.
Coastal Paths & Cleveland Way
South Cliff
Scenic walking routes offering breathtaking views of the coastline and access to beaches below.
The Esplanade Promenade
The Esplanade
A picturesque promenade with fantastic views over the Irish Sea and South Beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Italian Gardens
Enjoy the recently renovated Italian Gardens for a peaceful walk and access to beaches. :walking:
🌊 Connect to Cleveland Way
The Esplanade links directly to the Cleveland Way for longer coastal hikes. :hiking_boot:
☕ Visit the Clock Cafe
Grab a snack or lunch with a view at the Clock Cafe on the promenade. :coffee:
☀️ Enjoy Sunset Markets
Experience the vibrant Scarborough Sunset Markets on Saturdays during warmer months. :tada:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Italian Gardens
Enjoy the recently renovated Italian Gardens for a peaceful walk and access to beaches. :walking:
🌊 Connect to Cleveland Way
The Esplanade links directly to the Cleveland Way for longer coastal hikes. :hiking_boot:
☕ Visit the Clock Cafe
Grab a snack or lunch with a view at the Clock Cafe on the promenade. :coffee:
☀️ Enjoy Sunset Markets
Experience the vibrant Scarborough Sunset Markets on Saturdays during warmer months. :tada:
📸 Capture the Views
The promenade offers stunning photo opportunities of the sea and coastline. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Esplanade South Cliff for its stunning sea views, beautifully renovated Italian Gardens, and direct access to coastal paths. The promenade is highlighted as a perfect spot for leisurely walks and enjoying the fresh sea air. Some reviews mention issues with specific hotels in the area, but the natural beauty and amenities of the Esplanade itself are consistently well-regarded.
"Lovely area of Scarborough with the recently renovated Italian Gardens where there’s a pleasant walk through to the beaches and coastal paths below. The old Clock Tower on the Esplanade was renovated recently too. Public toilets are well kept and there’s also a putting green for the wanna be golfers amongst us !! Highly recommend walking along here which also links up to the Cleveland Way"
Kim Poskitt
"Stunning resort, love the place. If you want a chilled break away, then this is the place to come. Take things at your own pace"
Steve Hardman
"What can you say about a hotel that rings you up a week before your proposed holiday and tells you that the room that you have paid extra for is 'not available due to building work'. You would have thought that they knew well in advance what the plans were.
So, at very short notice, having pre-booked trips to Whitby and York as well as a theatre visit, I had to book travel and accommodation, the short notice meaning my cost was a lot larger than my refund.
During my stay in Scarborough I met several folk who were actually staying at the Esplanade who said they were being 'forced out' during the day because of the racket being caused by the refurbishment work. Luckily, the weather was gorgeous.
Another issue I have for the owners is that, a week or so after I had paid in full, they cut the price of the 5 night stay by nearly £100, the coach then being less than a third full. Could I also have the reduction? Not on your nellie.
Having booked Daish's Holidays solely because I saw their coach parked up in Felixstowe, the parsimonious £25 compensation voucher issued with their refund will NEVER be used.
I remain outraged by this company and do not recommend them whatsoever."
Michael D. Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Esplanade South Cliff is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include local buses that stop close to the area. It's also a pleasant walk from the town center for those who enjoy a stroll.
Yes, there are parking facilities available along The Esplanade and in nearby car parks. It's advisable to check for any restrictions or charges, especially during peak season.
Absolutely! It's a scenic walk, taking you along the coast and offering lovely views. The walk is generally well-signposted and takes around 15-20 minutes depending on your starting point.
Yes, public toilets are available and are generally well-maintained, making it convenient for visitors to spend extended time exploring the area.
The promenade itself is generally flat and accessible. The Italian Gardens have paved paths, but some of the steeper coastal paths might be more challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to The Esplanade, the Italian Gardens, and the coastal paths is free for everyone to enjoy.
The Italian Gardens are open to the public throughout the year, typically from dawn until dusk, allowing for flexible visiting times.
Entry to the Scarborough Sunset Markets is free. They are held every Saturday from May to October, 3 pm to 8 pm.
While The Esplanade itself is free, attractions like Scarborough Castle or Alpamare Water Park nearby will have their own admission fees. +1
Yes, there are pathways and steps leading down from The Esplanade and South Cliff Gardens to the beaches below.
📸 📸 Photography
The promenade offers panoramic sea views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Italian Gardens provide charming backdrops with their landscaping and the Clock Tower.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views.
Look for the old tunnel on the Esplanade that once connected a house to its garden across the road, a unique historical feature.
Yes, the Grand Hotel is visible from parts of The Esplanade and offers a striking architectural subject against the sea. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and gardens. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the distant coastline or the Grand Hotel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Clock Cafe on the promenade offers snacks and lunch. Nearby, you can find cafes and restaurants in South Cliff and the town center, including Dahlia Bakery.
The markets feature a variety of food stalls, including options like Greek Chicken Tacos and Chicken Satay. Halal-friendly options are often available.
Absolutely! The Italian Gardens and the promenade are perfect spots for a picnic with a view.
Many cafes and restaurants in Scarborough cater to families, offering a range of casual dining experiences.
Dahlia Bakery is a local favorite mentioned for its delicious treats, perfect for a morning coffee or afternoon snack.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the summer, the Scarborough Sunset Markets are a hit with kids, offering a variety of tasty treats and a lively atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts
The area is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the Yorkshire coast. Consider visiting during the quieter weekday mornings to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather, as coastal paths can be exposed.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the Italian Gardens and the iconic Clock Tower for picturesque shots. The Grand Hotel also presents a striking architectural subject against the coastal backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive beauty of this location.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the South Cliff Gardens
Connecting the Esplanade to the beaches below, the gardens provide access to scenic coastal paths. These paths are part of the longer Cleveland Way, a national trail, offering opportunities for more adventurous walks with breathtaking views of the North Sea. The integration of historical elements, like the old Clock Tower which has also been recently renovated, adds to the charm and character of the area.
For those interested in unique historical tidbits, there's mention of a secret tunnel on the Esplanade that once linked a house to its garden across the road. While not publicly accessible, it adds a layer of intrigue to the area's past.
The gardens are a testament to Scarborough's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and historical landmarks, making them a must-visit for any traveler.The Esplanade Promenade Experience
During the summer months, The Esplanade comes alive with the Scarborough Sunset Markets, held every Saturday. These markets offer a vibrant atmosphere with food stalls, local crafts, and live music, creating a lively evening experience.
Adjacent to the promenade, you'll find the Clock Cafe, a convenient spot for refreshments, offering snacks and light meals with a view.
The proximity to the Grand Hotel, a prominent landmark, also adds to the visual appeal of the area, with its imposing architecture visible from various points along the Esplanade. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit