As summer is coming to a close, AHP is back following some well-deserved R&R. We have been in and around Scarborough recently to many of the area’s listed hotels, so we thought it apt to do a short piece on the history of these hotels.
Scarborough’s history as a spa resort town dates back to 1626 when a spring containing iron was discovered at the bottom of Scarborough cliffs which was believed to have healing properties. Soon people were flocking to Scarborough to "take the waters" and improve their health.
In 1660, a book was published about the spa waters, which helped to further promote Scarborough as a health resort. By the early 18th century, a spa house had been built to sell the waters to visitors. The spa house also offered other amenities, such as bathing machines, which allowed visitors to bathe in the sea in a modest and private manner.
Victorian bathing machines
In addition to taking the waters, visitors to Scarborough could also enjoy a variety of other activities, such as boating, horse racing on the beach, and strolling along the promenade. The town also had a number of theatres and other entertainment venues.
Scarborough's popularity as a spa resort continued to grow throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. In the Victorian era, the town was transformed into a major seaside resort, with the construction of new hotels, piers, and other attractions.
Scarborough in the late 19th Century, showing the Grand Hotel in the background, the renovated spa in the foreground and the bathing machines, which were still in use at that time. © Historic England
With this evolving popularity, there came the need for accommodation. One of the most iconic buildings in Scarborough is the Grand Hotel. Built in 1867, the Grand Hotel was one of the largest and most luxurious hotels in Europe at the time. It attracted guests from all over the world, including royalty, celebrities, and business leaders.
Prior to the construction of the Grand Hotel, guest houses and smaller hotels offered accommodation to visitors. Most were built in the early 19th century and were constructed along the promenade. Queen’s Parade in particular stretches along the coast line, the hotels along which offer visitors beautiful views of the sea.
Today, many of Scarborough’s historic hotels need investment and reinvigoration. Most guest houses have been adapted into accommodation, however there are still a few which have retained their original use a hotels. Scarborough continues to offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Visitors can still take the waters at the Spa, or they can enjoy a variety of other treatments, such as massages, facials, and aromatherapy. The resort also has a number of swimming pools, including an outdoor pool with stunning views of the sea.
With special thanks to Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre and Visit Scarborough.