4 Best Sights in Scarborough, Yorkshire

One of the country's first purpose-built museums, this extraordinary cylindrical building was constructed in 1829 to house Jurassic fossils and minerals collected nearby. Designed by William Smith, known as "the father of English geology," it now displays important archaeological finds, evidence of local dinosaurs, and a unique Bronze Age skeleton. Don't miss the frieze illustrating the geology of the nearby coastline.

There have been military structures on this promontory commanding a view of the North and South bays since prehistoric times. Digs have uncovered evidence of fortifications here dating back to 500 BC, and there is still some remaining stonework from a 4th-century Roman signaling station. In 1136, a cliff-top stone fortress was built by the Earl of Albermarle, and the massive keep that dominates the existing ruins was added by Henry II in 1158, along with the enormous curtain walls that made the castle virtually impregnable. It remained largely unscathed until Cromwell's cannons did their worst during the Civil War. Further demolition came in 1914 when German warships shelled the town, and in 2012 when local vandals significantly damaged the Roman stonework. The castle also has a spectacular panoramic view of the coast.

This aquarium and marine sanctuary is a great—if rather expensive—way to entertain the kids for an afternoon. You can see marine habitats and creatures from around Britain and further afield: otters, penguins, jellyfish, loggerhead turtles, and octopuses. The rescued seal pups are particularly popular. Admission is by pre-booked online ticket only.

Most visitors to this small parish church near the castle are attracted by the churchyard's most famous occupant: Anne, the youngest Brontë sister. Employed as a governess by the Robinson family, Anne accompanied her charges to Scarborough for five summers, returning again in 1849 shortly before her death from tuberculosis in the hope that the sea air would be curative. Her sister Charlotte decided to "lay the flower where it had fallen" and buried Anne above the bay she'd loved. The church itself was originally erected in 1150 and rebuilt in the 17th century.