Favourite Things: Jennifer Dunne

I moved to Scarborough in February 2014 to take up a post as Collections Manager with Scarborough Museums Trust. I was excited about moving to the seaside and the first sight of the sea each day still makes me smile.

I’m originally from Liverpool so being by the water is important to me and I don’t think I could ever live too far inland. Living at the coast is such a wonderful experience. I love to witness how the sea and coastline changes throughout the year and

particularly enjoy watching the immense power of the waves on a stormy day.

Although it’s fun to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Foreshore, tuck into a peach and mango twist at the Harbour Bar and have fun at the amusement

arcades, my husband and I prefer a walk to the relative seclusion of Cayton Bay – even that steep climb doesn’t put us off!

We’re fascinated by the Second World War pillboxes that have slid down the cliff-face and enjoy watching the surfers tackling the waves, in the hope that one day we will finally get around to joining them.

My other favourite coastal area is Robin Hood’s Bay; I never tire of the view from the top of the cliffs and the anticipation of walking down the hill to explore all of its nooks and crannies. Each time we visit, we seem to find a new “undiscovered” part of the village that makes us feel as though we’ve stepped back in time.

This thirst for exploration also makes Scarborough’s Old Town another of my favourite places. It contains some beautiful buildings and the range of narrow steps and alleyways make me imagine what it must have been like when it was busy with fishing families, merchants, shipbuilders, public houses and shops.

North Yorkshire is steeped in history, which holds another great attraction for me as a historian and curator. Scarborough is no exception and the borough is teeming with historic importance, from its links with famous artists, novelists, scientists and entertainers to historic ruins and a wealth of significant archaeological sites, not least Star Carr, arguably the most important Mesolithic site ever discovered. It’s such a privilege to work in beautiful historic buildings such as Scarborough Art Gallery and the Rotunda Museum on a daily basis and be one of the people responsible for the care of the area’s cultural heritage.

The historic buildings that Scarborough has managed to retain are part of its unique character and definitely something to be cherished.

When I’m not working, I like to treat myself around town. My favourite shop is Homebird House. It’s such a delight to visit and as soon as you cross the threshold you’re hit with the enticing aromas from a range of candles, bath melts and perfumes. I’ve bought many unusual and quirky home décor items from the shop and it’s always my first stop when I need a special gift.

The shop’s owner, Alex, also introduced me to the wonderful world of chalk paint, which led to a new obsession with upcycling furniture.

My favourite place to eat has to be The Cowshed. The burgers are delicious – I

often try the specials and am never disappointed – and they always have such clever and original names. It’s great to see young people making a great success of a business and breathing new life into the town.

Altogether, Scarborough borough has so much to offer residents and visitors alike. I think we should be proud to live here and really do our best to let everybody know what a great place it is to be!

l If you’re interested in featuring your Favourite Things, about our fabulous area, please email [email protected] – you can take part individually, or as a couple/family, or a group or club.