Scarborough Spa Complex

Scarborough’s history as a tourist resort dates back to the discovery of spa waters way back in the 17th century at South Bay.

A view out to sea from the spa

History

People began to come in numbers to take the waters in what was to become Britain’s first seaside resort. In 1873, Britain’s first funicular railway was built to bring visitors from South Cliff Esplanade to the Scarborough Spa.

The waters were declared unsafe in the 1930s but visitors continued to come for the entertainment on offer at the Scarborough Spa

The Scarborough Spa Complex visitors see today dates back to the 1880s and includes the Spa Theatre, the Grand Hall concert hall, the Promenade Lounge, and the Ocean Room.

The ornamental gazebo and tiled floor

The Scarborough Spa Complex now hosts jazz and classical music concerts, conferences, theatrical shows, dances and wedding receptions and also brings people to enjoy the bars, cafes and relaxing views.