Oliver's Mount and Mere Country Park

Overlooking the southern part of Scarborough is Oliver's Mount, a large wooded hill rising to 500 feet above sea level and from which you can obtain a breathtaking view of Scarborough.

It has an impressive War Memorial, the column rising to 75½ feet, and there is also an attractive picnic area and nearby cafe with fabulous views. The former name of the hill was Weaponness and its present name may be derived from the mistaken belief that Oliver Cromwell placed batteries on it during the siege of the Castle.

In 1840, Anne Bronte wrote of visiting Oliver's Mount in her poem "The Bluebell" - an extract is reproduced here: "That day along a sunny road All carelessly I strayed, Between two banks where smiling flowers Their varied hues displayed. Before me rose a lofty hill, Behind me lay the sea, . . ."

The Mount is also home to various sporting activities, including the famous Oliver's Mount Racing the only English road motorbike racing circuit. You can drive around the twisting roads, but please stick to the speed limit! At one time, the mere spanned over 16 hectares in size and is a natural lake in the Weaponess Valley, but when the railway came to Scarborough in 1844, the mere was greatly reduced to make room.

After WW1 it was transformed into a traditional park, with floral beds and lawns and activities such as boating. Today, the mere’s focal point is its rich flora and fauna, making it a beautiful place to visit.

There is also a cafe and plenty of paths to walk and enjoy time with the family. Scarborough Angling Club offer membership to people who wish to fish the mere and fishing competitions are regularly organised. Tuition can also be offered to anyone interested in fishing, whatever the age!