Marine Drive and Royal Albert Drive

From the old Toll House on the south side, to the North Bay, this spectacular walk or drive takes you around the prominent castle headland, taking in striking sounds, sea views and fresh sea air.

The imposing limestone cliffs made the headland a natural location for a roman signal station and later a fortified castle. The cliffs are a magnet for seabirds including nesting Kittiwakes (mid May to late June) and even sometimes Peregrine Falcons.

On the way, signboards will give you interesting facts including the history of the drive, which also forms part of the England Coastal path and the Cleveland Way National Trail.

The Marine Drive was an ambitious engineering feat that was constructed as the first ever marine carriage drive in the country that also served as a sea defence. Work started in 1897 and took 11 years to complete and was officially opened as a toll road in 1908 (tolls were one penny each!). The Royal Albert Drive which meets with the Marine Drive was completed 18 years prior in 1890.

Along the way you can see the mysterious Hairy Bob’s Cave, a popular skate park and access to Royal Albert Gardens which will take you up to the Castle and Old Town. The Marine Drive becomes the Royal Albert Drive at this point.

At the northern end of the drive, you’ll come across a larger than life statue, Freddie Gilroy, sat on a bench admiring the sea views. Take a moment to turn back to look south and admire the castle keep on the distant headland, standing proudly, silhouetted against the sky having witnessed centuries of Scarborough’s evolution.

At the end of the drive you will also find plenty of cafes and attractions including the famous Peasholm Park and North Bay Heritage Railway. Pay and Display parking is plentiful along the drive (9am – 6pm) and is free 31st October to 1st March. Beach access (depending on tide) is on the northern end and dog walking on the beach is restricted in parts during the summer months.

Caution should be taken during rough seas.