Planning a family holiday to Scarborough and the North Yorkshire Coast? Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, grandparents, or the dog, there’s something for everyone. From traditional seaside fun to forest zip lines and animal encounters, here are our top 7 family-friendly day trips — all within easy reach of The Firs, your dog-friendly holiday home in Scalby.
Scarborough North & South Bay – Classic Seaside Family Fun
No visit to the Yorkshire Coast is complete without a day at the beach. South Bay buzzes with arcades, donkey rides, and fish & chips. Build sandcastles, ride the historic cliff lifts, and enjoy boat trips around the bay. For a more relaxed vibe, head to North Bay for dog walks, beachcombing, and ice cream by the sea. North Bay also has a designated dog-friendly section, so your four-legged family members can enjoy the beach too.
North Bay Railway & Scarborough Sea Life Centre
A family favourite, the miniature North Bay Railway is a scenic and nostalgic ride that takes you along the coast to the Sea Life Centre. It’s a great little adventure for younger children, and dogs are welcome too. At the Sea Life Centre, meet penguins, rescued seals, rays, and tropical fish – with plenty of hands-on, interactive exhibits to keep kids engaged.
Dalby Forest – Adventure Awaits
Dalby Forest is a must for outdoorsy families. Just over half an hour from The Firs, it offers miles of family-friendly trails for walking and cycling, nature-themed treasure hunts, and a large forest playground. Older kids (and adults!) will love the Go Ape treetop adventure course, and the visitor centre café is a great stop for lunch or cake. The forest is also dog-friendly, making it ideal for the whole family.
Alpamare Water Park – Splash Time for All Ages
Perfect for a rainy or chilly day, Alpamare is Scarborough’s waterpark with something for everyone: thrilling waterslides, wave pools, a warm outdoor infinity pool, and a toddler splash zone. Adults can also enjoy the on-site wellness spa while the kids burn off energy in the water. It’s modern, clean, and great fun for families with children of all ages.
Flamingo Land – Thrills and Wildlife in One Place
Part theme park, part zoo, Flamingo Land is a full-day destination that’s always a hit with kids. Ride roller coasters and carousels, see lions and lemurs, and enjoy daily animal talks and shows. There’s a wide range of attractions for all age groups, from gentle rides for toddlers to adrenaline-fuelled adventures for teens. It’s under an hour’s drive from The Firs and well worth the trip.
Playdale Farm Park – A Winner for Little Ones
Located just 15 minutes from The Firs, Playdale Farm Park is a lovely place for younger children. Meet friendly animals, play in the huge indoor soft play area, dig in the giant sandpit, and race pedal go-karts. It’s easy to spend a full morning or afternoon here, and there’s plenty of seating and refreshments for the grown-ups too.
Whitby & Sandsend – Coastal Charm and Fossil Hunting
If you fancy a coastal road trip, head to Whitby for a magical day out. Explore the dramatic ruins of Whitby Abbey, enjoy traditional fish and chips, and browse the quirky shops and arcades by the harbour. On your way back, stop at Sandsend — a peaceful stretch of beach perfect for paddling, fossil hunting, or walking the dog. Both destinations are dog-friendly and offer a different pace from busier Scarborough.
Why Stay at The Firs?
After a busy day exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, welcoming home. The Firs offers three bedrooms, a spacious kitchen/diner, a private secure garden, and a cosy lounge with an open fire and SMART TV. There’s even a games and cinema room for indoor fun, making it perfect for family groups of all ages — and ideal if you’re travelling with dogs.
Book Your Family Holiday at The Firs
Whether you’re planning a school holiday escape, a long weekend, or a multigenerational celebration, The Firs is your perfect base to explore Scarborough and beyond. Close to the coast and countryside with space for everyone (including your four-legged friends), it’s time to make those lasting family memories.
Want to see what a whole day in cosy, dog-friendly Scalby looks like? Get inspired by our day-in-the-life holiday post