Scarborough was once a thriving seaside town, but visitors say its gone downhill. (Image: Getty)
, once a jewel of England’s northern coastline, is drawing mixed reviews as its stunning beach remains a highlight for visitors while the town itself struggles with signs of decline.
Known for its , Scarborough’s beach continues to attract tourists. It offers picturesque views and a vibrant atmosphere with arcades, small rides, and .
However, some visitors and locals are raising concerns about the town centre, describing it as “run down” and plagued by social issues.
Visitors on travel review sites describe a stark contrast between Scarborough’s beach and town centre.
One user on TripAdvisor said: “Scarborough is a very run-down town. The beach is its saving grace… but the town is dirty, and many shops have closed down.”
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Several shops have shut on Scarborough’s high street. (Image: Getty)
Another visitor lamented the litter and abundance of closed shops, saying that while the beach remains a beautiful escape, the rest of the town could use significant attention.
A third simply asked why people stopped caring.
“What has happened to Scarborough? We were saddened to see the amount of street litter, and crappy shops-there was nothing good on offer except one little gem of a fossil shop on the way into town.
“Why did people stop caring about this place, and the locals that live there, why aren’t they giving their council hell about the state of the town?
“It was almost like a dumping ground, we’ve never seen some much rubbish, including dead wild life on the streets.”
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Visitors say Scarborough Beach is the town’s one saving grace. (Image: Getty)
Longtime residents and recent visitors have expressed concerns about safety, particularly in the town centre.
Resident David Wharton, who works at Tesco, mentioned an uptick in shoplifting, sometimes carried out in groups, adding that drug and alcohol issues contribute to an unsettling environment.
Similarly, business owner Jonathan Thompson highlighted the challenges posed by some landlords renting properties to vulnerable individuals, often leading to problems with street drinking and anti-social behaviour.
In response, North Yorkshire Police and the local council are stepping up efforts to improve the area’s safety and cleanliness. Operations like “Operation Vigilant” target antisocial behaviour, while other initiatives focus on reducing street drinking.
The police department assured residents that they are working to make Scarborough’s town centre a more welcoming space for everyone.
Despite the criticism, many people like Scarborough for its charm and seaside heritage.
Mike Crofts, a frequent visitor from Barnsley, praised the town’s historic architecture and natural beauty. Local business owner Caroline Bowne believes Scarborough is “on the up,” buoyed by loyal holidaymakers and day-trippers.
The Italian Gardens and Peasholm Park are still celebrated as serene spots for walks and relaxation, attracting families and retirees alike.