Scarborough

Scarborough is a fine example of a Victorian seaside resort town. Here, you can stretch out on one of the golden sandy beaches, lick melting ice creams or nibble on newspaper-wrapped fish and chips before braving the dip in the cool North Sea. Alternatively, ride the old Victorian funicular that still chugs slowly along to the harbour, or amble through the Japanese Gardens in Peasholm Park.

Scarborough has modernised since the golden age of seaside holidays, though. At Scarborough SEA LIFE you can get face to face with cheeky Humboldt penguins or watch playful seals splashing around, while the renovated Victorian spa now offers year-round gigs and shows.