Events to mark spa town's 400th anniversary

Key people in Scarborough's history are to be illuminated as part of a series of events planned to mark the 400th anniversary of the resort's official designation as a spa town.

Natural mineral waters were discovered bubbling beneath the town's cliffs in 1626 by Thomasin Farrer, the wife of prominent citizen John Farrer.

The discovery of mineral waters in Scarborough led to the development of tourism in the town, which enjoyed considerable growth in the 18th Century.

To commemorate the anniversary in 2026, North Yorkshire Council said a "varied programme of events" was planned to "mark this significant milestone in Scarborough's history".

A spokesperson said the anniversary celebrations would take place throughout the year, with exhibitions, cultural and arts showcases and community trails planned.

Highlights would include a new sculpture, due to be installed close to Scarborough Spa.

Scarborough Art Gallery is also set to stage an exhibition, called Dive In, from 26 September, charting the town's history over the past four centuries.

A giant deckchair trail across the town is also planned during the summer school holidays, with an illuminated art installation in Peasholm Park taking place in November.

The illuminations will be inspired by famous names in Scarborough's history, including Farrer.

Councillor Mark Crane, the council's executive member for open to business, said: "This is a moment to celebrate Scarborough's long and rich history, and we would encourage businesses to get involved to help us mark the anniversary."

Tourism in Scarborough now generates about £580m annually, according to North Yorkshire Council.

Councillor Liz Colling, chair of the council's Scarborough and Whitby area committee, said: "Scarborough has developed over the past 400 years into a very special place for so many people who have visited and taken holidays in the town.

"But Scarborough is equally loved by the people who actually live here, and this year is an opportunity to celebrate all that makes the town such a great place to live, work and visit."

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