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Central Tramway Company
Scarborough's Famous Victorian Cliff Railway

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ABOUT

Built in 1881, the Central Tramway Company Scarborough Limited is a Victorian cliff railway on the Yorkshire coast.

 

One of the oldest cliff railways still running in the UK, the Central Tramway has the distinction of being the oldest cliff tramway company in the country as the original corporation still operates the business today.

 

In 2012 the company was presented with a Scarborough Civic Society Heritage Trail Blue Plaque marking this achievement, presented by Scarborough Mayor Helen Mallory.

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Scarborough Civic Society Blue Plaque, Central Tramway Britain's oldest surviving cliff tramway company founded 1881.
Looking up the cliff railway tracks. A red and white carriage is in the foreground and the top station is in the background.

SAFETY

As one of the UK's busiest cliff railways, the first priority of the company is the safety of our passengers and employees. This means we have to abide to strict health and safety codes and maintain a rigorous maintenance schedule throughout the year. During certain quieter months we are open weekends only so be sure to check before you travel.

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SERVICE AND ACCESSIBILITY

The Central Tramway Company has been serving locals and visitors to Scarborough for over 140 years. We offer a friendly, regular, reliable service throughout the year. Whatever your needs we're here to keep you moving. For more detailed information about accessibility at Central Tramway click here.

Old black and white image of the Central Tramway cliff railway looking up the tracks to the top station.

HERITAGE

Built in 1881, just 14 years after the completion of the Grand Hotel (in 1867), the Central Tramway cliff railway has a rich history closely linked to the town. We are proud to maintain and celebrate this history with regular talks, tours, school visits and open days. Learn more on our history and education pages.

ABOUT
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VISIT US

In the heart of Scarborough's picturesque South Bay the Central Tramway Company cliff railway is conveniently located between the St Nicholas Gardens and the Grand Hotel.

 

The service runs between the Foreshore Road and St Nicholas Street, ideal for visiting all the fun and amenities of the beach front and for quickly getting into town. We're just a stones-throw from the Town Hall and the shops on Eastborough.

VISIT US

1881

Year Established

450,000

Passengers per year

247.6

Length of track (in feet)

1 in 2.4

Gradient of track

EXPLORE

EXPLORE

CONTACT

CONTACT, ADDRESS & SOCIAL

Inquiries

Address

For enquiries please call 01723 501754, or email:

gm@centraltramway.co.uk

Upper Station, 

Marine Parade,

Scarborough,

YO11 2ER

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ASSOCIATIONS

ASSOCIATIONS

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