Journal
10 of the Best Pubs in Scarborough
The first thing that springs to mind when most people think of Scarborough is the beach and the arcades – but what about a good old-fashioned Yorkshire pub? The seaside town has a thriving nightlife, and you can grab a bite to eat or indulge in a pint of real ale at some of the best pubs in Scarborough.
What Are The Best Pubs in Scarborough?
Whether it’s a family-friendly meal or an all-out night out with your mates, you can find both in this Yorkshire coastal town. Sip on cocktails and book function rooms or sample your way through all the real ale pubs in Scarborough.
From pub quizzes to karaoke and locally sourced produce, here’s our guide to the best pubs in Scarborough town centre…
1. The Angel Inn
Nothing says traditional Yorkshire hospitality like The Angel Inn, one of the best-known pubs in Scarborough town centre. Based on North Street, The Angel Inn serves a vast selection of award-winning ales and draught beers, or wines and spirits if you’re so inclined.
It’s a great bar for sports fans, and regularly shows live football, rugby and horse racing on Sky Sports. There’s even a heated beer garden so you can enjoy a cool one whatever the weather.
2. Sanctuary Bar
For somewhere that’s more coffee and cocktails than a real ale pub, choose Sanctuary Bar. Social is Sanctuary Bar’s middle name, with regular pub quizzes, seasonal kids’ parties and even a function room to hire.
Hungry? Here’s just one of the many pubs in Scarborough that serve food – and the menu’s not to be sniffed at. Indulge in burgers, kebabs, pizzas, sharing platters and much more. Plus, wash it down with a 2-4-1 cocktail deal. You’ll find the Sanctuary Bar on St Nicholas Street.
3. Hole in the Wall
The Hole in the Wall is well-known for being one of the best real ale pubs in Scarborough and one of the most popular pubs in North Yorkshire. Come in here for classics such as Tetley’s Pale Ale, or experimental flavours like roasted caramel and fruity bitters.
Of course, ale’s not the only drink on the menu. The team are only too happy to partake in events like Gin Week. You can also get involved with live music nights, or bring your dog along for a quiet pint. Look for the Hole in the Wall on Vernon Road.
4. The Courtyard
Another Scarborough pub on Vernon Road, The Courtyard is a charming, pokey pub with a beer garden. Bring the whole family including the dog for food, drinks and lots of fun.
You won’t find real ale here, but you will find a function room and a varied menu including guests’ favourites like loaded nachos. Enjoy a full meal or just pop in for a quiet pint and have a flick through the complimentary newspapers.
5. Scarborough Arms
This classic local public house is open year-round and even features a Christmas Day menu for those who don’t fancy cooking. Dine in or enjoy kerbside pick-up and get a taste of British classics like fish finger sandwiches.
The family-run Scarborough Arms can be found on North Terrace, just a short distance from all the local attractions in Scarborough. Keep your eyes open for discounts on food during the school holidays.
6. Indigo Alley
In the heart of Scarborough on North Marine Road you’ll find Indigo Alley. As much an adult’s playground as it is a bar, Indigo Alley has pool tables, an open fire and regular live music events. It also hosts regular party nights with live DJs, as well as open mic evenings.
If you’re more into cocktails than beers and ales, this is one of the best pubs in Scarborough. Get the party started and don’t forget to indulge in a few treats from their menu – including fan-favourite homemade pizzas.
7. Lord Nelson Hotel and Public House
Did somebody say disco? Despite the rather traditional Yorkshire pub name, The Lord Nelson is anything but. Instead, you’ll find a hopping disco and karaoke venue, ideal for wild nights and stag or hen dos.
Don’t worry – you can still have a quiet one and tuck into the local menu. Enjoy classics such as scampi, chilli or a tempting mixed grill. With sea views, The Lord Nelson is also family-friendly. Pop down to Foreshore Road on the South Bay and see for yourself.
8. The Wilsons Pub
There aren’t many pubs in Scarborough that make you feel like you’ve had to earn your pint, but Wilsons is the exception! Located at the top of a hill on West Sandgate, Wilsons is another real ale pub in Scarborough, featuring on the prestigious CAMRA list.
The pub hosts regular events including discos, quizzes and music nights, while sports fans can pop in to watch live football. You can even catch the racing if you’re lucky!
9. Golden Ball
A hop, skip and a jump away from Scarborough Beach, the Golden Ball pub can be found on Sandside. After whiling away the hours at the penny arcades, pop into the Golden Ball for a vast selection of locally brewed pints.
There are regular quiz nights and gorgeous views of Scarborough Harbour, plus an open fire to warm the cockles. This centuries-old pub is known for its beer garden, free books to read and very purse-friendly prices.
10. Scholars Bar
Based near the shopping centre on Somerset Terrace, Scholars Bar has something for everyone. Make the best of regular happy hour sessions, watch live sport and sit back with a pint of real ale. The pub features nine screens including one giant screen, plus cask ales to keep you topped up all night long.
It’s also dog-friendly and has a range of pub games available. Not into your real ales? Try a pint of real cider instead – you won’t be disappointed.
Has our list of the best pubs in Scarborough whet your whistle? Don’t worry about travelling back – book a stay in our Scarborough cottages and make a trip of it.
And for more thrilling ways to spend your time, give our guide on where to enjoy afternoon tea in Scarborough a read!