Things To Do
in Scartho

Scartho is a quiet village on the edge of Grimsby in Lincolnshire, England, offering a mix of leafy lanes, historic landmarks, and easy access to the Humber estuary. It retains a welcoming, village atmosphere with local pubs, green spaces, and a sense of community, while being just a short drive from the shops and amenities of Grimsby town centre. The area is ideal for walkers and day-trippers, with quick routes to coastline towns, nature reserves, and cultural sites.

It's a convenient base for exploring the Humber region, from coastal towns to inland countryside, all within easy reach by road or rail.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Scartho Village
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque village of Scartho, where you can admire the charming architecture and local gardens. Enjoy a traditional English breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of the region. Don't forget to visit the Scartho Methodist Church, a beautiful landmark that adds historical depth to your exploration.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head over to Scartho Top Park for a leisurely walk or a picnic, where the scenic greenery offers a tranquil escape from daily life. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the views while spotting local wildlife. As you wander, you can also engage with friendly locals who often frequent the park.

evening
:

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of Scartho’s cozy pubs, where you can experience the warmth of community and sample local ales. After your meal, take a peaceful evening walk through the village, enjoying the serene atmosphere and perhaps catching a glimpse of the starry skies. End your day with a cup of tea at a quaint café, soaking in the essence of Scartho.

day 2
Day Trip to Grimsby
morning
:

Begin your journey to nearby Grimsby with a hearty breakfast before setting off on public transport or driving. Upon arrival, explore the historic fishing port, where you can learn about its rich maritime heritage. The fresh sea breeze and vibrant atmosphere will invigorate your senses as you wander around.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre, which offers an insightful glimpse into the town's history through interactive exhibits. Afterward, savor lunch at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood dishes prepared with local catches. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll along the marina, taking in the stunning views of the boats and the waterfront scenery.

evening
:

As evening approaches, consider catching a local theater performance or live music gig at one of Grimsby’s cultural venues. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant that celebrates local flavors, followed by drinks at a nearby bar with a friendly ambiance. Return to Scartho, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the vibrant energy of the lively town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range)$40-60
🚕Taxi start (1-3 miles)$8-12
Coffee at café$2-4
🛒Groceries for a week$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, village-feel with quick access to Grimsby and coast
  • Strong seafood heritage and easy day trips to the Humber region
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Some venues require travel to Grimsby or Cleethorpes for more options

Places to Visit in Scartho

Visit one of these nice places.

Scartho Village Green

A quintessential English village green framed by historic buildings and churchyard, ideal for portraits and seasonal shots.

Grimsby Dock Tower and Docks

Industrial harbor silhouettes and cranes set against water reflections provide dramatic urban photography.

Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre Exterior

Harborfront architecture and historic signage offer nautical photography opportunities.

Cleethorpes Beach and Promenade

Wide sandy beaches, piers, and seaside activity make for bright, cinematic coastal photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Scartho

The food scene around Scartho leans on hearty English pub fare, seafood from the Humber, and seasonal Lincolnshire produce. Expect generous portions, comforting classics, and seasonal specials at village and town pubs.

Scartho Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lincolnshire Sausage

A hearty pork sausage seasoned with sage and herbs, typically served with mash, onion gravy, and seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Grimsby Haddock and Chips

Freshly battered haddock with chips, often enjoyed with mushy peas and tartar sauce at coastal pubs and fish and chip shops.

Steak and Ale Pie

Slow-cooked beef with ale, encased in flaky pastry, a staple in many countryside pubs in Lincolnshire.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Grimsby Market

Annual and regular markets in Grimsby town centre offering fresh produce, meats, breads, and street-style snacks.

Docks Seafood Stalls

Seasonal stalls near the harbour selling freshly caught Humber seafood and seaside fare.

Climate Guide

Weather

Scartho experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is common throughout the year, and winds can be brisk along the coast. Average temperatures range from about 2-8°C in winter to 17-21°C in summer, with variability by year. The Humber estuary area can feel especially breezy and changeable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and Queueing

Be punctual for appointments and courteous in queues; wait your turn in shops and on public transport.

Politeness

Offer polite greetings such as 'please' and 'thank you'; small talk about the weather or local topics is common and friendly.

Respect for Local Spaces

Respect quiet residential streets, especially in the evenings; keep noise to a reasonable level near homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Scartho is generally safe, with typical urban/suburban safety considerations. Keep an eye on traffic when walking near main roads and near marina areas; take care on coastal paths during high winds or tides. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 in case of immediate danger, with NHS services available locally via GP practices and Grimsby hospital.

Tipping in Scartho

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary but not compulsory. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% for good service is common; many places include a service charge for larger groups.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in pubs, cafes, and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder days with fresh green landscapes; expect showers and longer daylight hours; good for nature walks and outdoor photography.

Summer

Warm days with long evenings and plenty of outdoor events; bring sun protection and water; coastal breezes help keep temperatures comfortable.

Autumn

Crisp air, colorful foliage, and harvest-time markets; a good time for scenic walks and quieter streets.

Winter

Cool and often windy with occasional frost or snow; shorter days—plan daylight activities and cozy pub evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Scartho at Night

The nightlife in Scartho is low-key, with traditional pubs and casual bars in Grimsby offering a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Expect live music and quiz nights at several local pubs, plus seasonal events and seafood-focused evenings along the coast. The nearby Cleethorpes and Grimsby waterfronts provide additional options for late-evening strolls and socializing, but the area remains generally peaceful compared with larger cities.

Hiking in Scartho

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lincolnshire Wolds Way

A scenic long-distance trail through rolling chalk hills and countryside nearby, suitable for day hikes.

Humber Estuary Walks

Coastal and nature reserves with flat terrain and birdwatching opportunities along the estuary.

Cleethorpes Coastal Path

Coastal trails along the seafront suitable for easy day hikes and photography.

Airports

How to reach Scartho by plane.

Humberside Airport (HUY)

The closest regional airport serving the Humber region, with flights to selected UK and European destinations and good road links to Scartho via the A180/M180.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA)

A larger regional airport within driving distance, offering a wider range of domestic and European flights with accessible road routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Scartho is a walkable village with pleasant lanes and local paths; more extensive walkability is found in Grimsby town centre and along the coast, where signage and pedestrian-friendly routes exist. Some areas near busy roads require a car or bus to reach public transit or farther attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A strong family-oriented community with good schooling options and local services.

Working-age adults

Residents involved in Grimsby’s maritime and industrial sectors, with demand for local amenities.

Retirees

Suburban residents who appreciate quiet neighborhoods and accessible healthcare.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Support for Grimsby Town FC is strong; local clubs offer community leagues and match experiences.

Cricket

Local cricket clubs and leagues provide summer sport and social events on greens and grounds.

Golf

Several golf courses in the region offer scenic layouts and nearby practice facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during peak commuting times, particularly near Grimsby-Docks and coastal routes to Cleethorpes on weekends. Public transport includes buses connecting Scartho with Grimsby and Cleethorpes; driving is practical for day trips to the countryside and coast.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Scartho.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian mains; look for veggie pies, mushroom dishes, and plant-based options. When in doubt, ask about cheese and eggs-based dishes or sides like salads and roasted vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via NHS GP practices in Scartho and nearby Grimsby, with Grimsby District Hospital providing emergency and specialized services. Pharmacists and minor injury units are available in town centres, and routine care can be booked through local clinics.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide