With its scenic lake, pretty gardens and fun activities, Peasholm Park is one of the most impressive of Scarborough’s central parks. It covers an area of 40 acres (16 hectares) with views of the North Sea. Stroll around the circumference of the lake, which runs around a picturesque island.
Enjoy a picnic in the shade of a tree in summer. Play sports with your family and watch others in the midst of a game of cricket or soccer. Rent a boat to take out on the artificial lake. Traditional rowing boats, canoes and pedal boats with dragon heads are among the vessels available to rent. Relax with your family in the Swan Launch motorboat.
Cross the bridge to visit the large island full of trees and walking paths. The island has a hill with an impressive pagoda that complements other Japanese features around the park. Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the lake and the park.
A bandstand offers free concerts. Purchase drinks, meals and ice creams from one of the cafés.
Stroll along the nature paths along the natural glen west of the lake. Encounter pretty waterfalls and ponds and see kids launching model boats. Spot wild geese, swans and ducks on the water. Some ancient tree stumps have been sculpted into intriguing shapes, such as a squirrel and a dragon.
Learn about the rich history of the park, which was founded in 1912 and held galas and exhibitions. See the naval warfare battle, held several times weekly in the summer.
Enter the park, which remains open at all times, for free. Boats are available to rent. Cafés are open in summer.
Walk north for less than 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) to reach Peasholm Park from Scarborough Railway Station. It is just west of North Bay Beach and surrounded by intriguing attractions such as the Scarborough Open Air Theatre and the Scarborough Bowls Centre. Take a bus to one of the many stops on the streets bordering the park. Use the parking lot with many spaces north of the park.