CHECK POINT 1
19 Eastborough
In the 12th and 13th century, the southern external castle walls and moat once ran alongside Eastborough (which was previously called Merchant's Row). The earliest settlements could be found on the hills leading down to the harbour - and Eastborough was one of the main streets, both residential and commercial.
Many of the buildings on this street are prime examples of Victorian structures. Take a look at the shops on the corner of Leading Post Street (numbers 19, 21 & 23). Adorned with a handcrafted, decorative wooden façades above the doors and windows, and large bay windows on the upper floors - these 4-storey buildings have been home to many businesses over the years, with living quarters above.
This central location has witnessed the town's evolution from a small fishing village to a popular seaside destination. Its story is one of trade, resilience, and community.
Read on to learn more about the history of Eastborough - or jump straight to check point 2 here:
Early beginnings...
Eastborough's location near the harbour made it a natural hub for maritime activities and commerce. Some of the buildings on the street date back to the 1600s, although we're sure it has been a residential area centuries before this. As Scarborough grew, Eastborough became a gathering place for merchants, traders, and locals - and by the end of the 19th century it was a bustling street with carts and horses.
A short lived tram route saw carts on the street from 1904, until a huge crash in 1925 contributed to the downfall of the company, and the network ceased operation in 1931.
For some great pictures of the trams in action check out the following website:
Trading & Commerce...
The cobbled streets lined with charming buildings housed a variety of alehouses, shops, markets, and artisan workshops. Merchants Row, just behind Eastborough (and our next check point), bustled with activity as traders from near and far convened to exchange goods and establish connections.
%20.jpeg)
The area experienced periods of severe economic downturn, including during the decline of the fishing industry, and further recessions. However, the community adapted to changing times and embraced new opportunities - in particular the growth of tourism in the 19th century.
Saved by tourism...
Eastborough has since evolved to cater to the needs of the growing number of tourists. Shops selling souvenirs, eateries, and entertainment venues emerged, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracted visitors seeking relaxation by the sea. Many of the buildings became holiday accommodation, including several B&Bs, as well as specialist shops and eateries - we have 2 vegan cafes on the street.
Today, Eastborough remains a vibrant hub of activity where the echoes of Scarborough's past mingle with the energy of the present. As you explore the cobbled side streets, imagine the generations that have walked before, uncovering layers of history and culture that contribute to the unique tapestry of Scarborough's Old Town.
THINGS TO DO
We have some amazing independent shops and cafes on this part of the street, including:
-
Wherritts - a gift and souvenir shop, one of the oldest shops on the street
-
Sing & Bling - music memorabilia and jewellery
-
Love Brew Vegan Cafe
-
Francesca's Vegan Cafe
-
Fuj - handmade fudge
-
Fish & Chips - Molly's, Leeds Fisheries, Princess Fish Shop
-
Pedrington's Portal - handmade gifts and crafts
CHECKPOINT NAVIGATION
This section will be repeated at the bottom of every checkpoint page, so if you want to skip ahead, or go back at any time, you can easily get to the check point page of your choice by clicking the corresponding button.
Lost your map? No problem - just download the pdf document again using the map icon here, or view and download the map image at the bottom of the navigation section.
