I’ll never forget the drive up to Scarborough last autumn – the leaves turning that gorgeous coppery gold along the A171, with the North Sea peeking out every so often like it was teasing us. Me and the missus had roped in our mates and the kids for a proper getaway, piling into the car with enough snacks to feed a small army. But about halfway there, disaster struck: a puncture on the moors, right as the light was fading and a chill wind whipped up. We were faffing about with the spare wheel, laughing hysterically at my rubbish jack skills, when a local stopped to help. Proper Yorkshire hero – had us back on the road in ten minutes flat. By the time we rolled into Scalby, just a stone’s throw from Scarborough, I was buzzing with that mix of relief and excitement, wondering if the place would live up to the hype.

Pulling up to this cracking luxury cottage, my heart did a little flip. It’s one of those spots that screams “gather your favourite people and make memories” – five spacious bedrooms to keep everyone happy, four reception rooms including a lounge for sprawling out, a cosy snug, a whisky room that had the lads grinning like kids at Christmas, and a proper dining room for feasts. Then there’s the garden, an absolute dream with a cracking eight-seater hot tub, patio, and even a sauna tucked away. First impressions? Spot on. The autumn sun was dipping low, casting this warm glow over everything, and you could already imagine evenings bubbling away out there as the days grew shorter.

That time of year shaped the whole trip, no doubt. Scarborough in autumn is magic – not scorching hot like summer, but crisp enough to make your cheeks glow, with that fresh sea air that clears your head. We wandered down to the beach the first morning, boots crunching on the sand still damp from overnight mist, watching seals bob about in the bay. No massive crowds, just us and a few dog-walkers, perfect for building one of those massive pebble castles the kids demolished with glee. Lunch was chips from a hut on the harbour, vinegar sharp and steaming in the breeze – pure nostalgia, especially with the leaves swirling around like confetti.

Evenings were the highlight, all thanks to the season’s cosy pull. We’d fire up the hot tub as dusk fell early, steam rising into the chilly air while sipping mulled cider from the patio. One night, after a brisk hike along the cliffs to Cayton Bay – those russet ferns and crashing waves were stunning – we retreated to the sauna, then the whisky room for a tasting session. The garden felt like our private haven, fairy lights twinkling against the darkening sky, laughter echoing as we planned the next day’s attack on Scarborough’s Italian ice cream shops (autumn doesn’t stop a good gelato craving).

Reflecting on it now, sat back home with the radiators humming, I realise how that autumnal hush made it special. No rushing about; just quality time, wrapped in woollies and warmth. We left with fuller hearts and a promise to return – maybe next leaf-peeping season. If you’re after a proper escape, this corner of Scalby in autumn is unbeatable.