Destination Guide

Harrogate

Tourist Information

Things to see & do in Harrogate

Harrogate is a popular spa town, located midway between Leeds and York. Offering the visitor an array of things to see and do. The town itself is well laid out and easy to navigate. Harrogate also has excellent restaurants and cafes. Nearby, the Yorkshire Moors are easy to drive to, and so is York. Castle Howard, one of Yorkshire's greatest treasures is only a 20 minute drive from Harrogate. There are several things to do in Harrogate to make your experience that little bit more memorable. Whether you’re here for the day or in town a little longer, there are several amenities and attractions to be discovered and explored.

The wonderful spa town of Harrogate has a wealth of options, whether you’re looking for things to do or looking somewhere to eat with family and friends.

Attractions

Let’s check the some of the best attractions on offer when looking for things to do in Harrogate.

1. The Turkish Baths of Harrogate

This is the reason many come to the spa town of Harrogate, to sample the famous Turkish Baths. The jewel in the crown maybe. What welcomes you is something else, from the steam room that’s magnificently designed, to the plunge pool and spa that are all designed with terrazzo floors, you’ll feel you’re going back in time.

Back in the Victorian era, the baths are what made Harrogate one of the top spa towns in the whole of Europe so it’s worthy of being our first attraction on the list of things to do when in town.

2. Meander your way around Nidderdale Museum

This community run museum is quaint in nature with its old work-house structure. It delves back in time and tells the story of the local people of Harrogate and the Yorkshire Dales. What’s great about here is, it’s run by locals who have a passion for what they do. A must visit.

3. Enjoy the beautiful Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens

Harrogate is known to have some of the lushest green spaces anywhere in the UK. Not far from the centre is the Harlow Car Botanical Gardens, situated a mile or so out of town. A must see for flower lovers. Last entry is one hour before closing.

4. Mercer Art Gallery

Another Gallery you say? Well this one not to be missed with art and collections from the last 200 years. Featuring from the likes of Dame Laura Knight, Alan Davie and many more. With temporary exhibitions to go along with the fine modern art, it’s worthwhile. Visitors also get the opportunity to gaze inside the Harrogate gem, built over 200 years ago as one of town’s first spa locations.

5. Bettys Harrogate

Nearly a century old, this endearing café is elegant and traditional. Whether you’re here with the family or a vacation with some old friends, coming here for afternoon tea should be part of the itinerary on your next break to this picturesque town. Staff in period costume and fantastic cakes on offer, it will last long in the memory for being a great afternoon out.

6. Feel French in the aptly named the Montpellier Quarter

Venture to one of the most sought after places to stay in Harrogate, the Montpellier Quarter that’s overlooking Prospect Gardens. Gaze at the fantastic architecture of the 19th century buildings. Whether you fancy something to eat in one of the fine restaurants or a bit of shopping, Montpellier is worth exploring.

7. Get fit and kick start your day at Brimham Rocks

This National Trust site is home to several rock formations that stand at around 30 ft high on top of each other. They have names such as The Watchdog and The Dancing Bear. Formed over 300 million years ago, the area is great for pictures and walks.

8. The Spirit of Harrogate

This is an interesting attractions, by day it’s a quaint and alluring gin store run by local gin company Slingsby. In the evenings, they run gin tasting sessions while on every other Friday they host a Gin Experience where visitors learn about the history of the spirit and taster sessions. We suggest to book ahead for this one.

9. The Royal Hall in Harrogate

Set in an endearing Edwardian Theatre that sits in the Harrogate Convention Centre, this is a place to come to enjoy the finer things in life from piano recitals, orchestral and choral performances and more. Great in the summer as they do guided tours. Book in advance and call them for more details.

10. Hoxton North

Get the beard primed as this is the hipster’s heaven. This London inspired Café is great for expresso while looking over business plans or Skype calls. Come here to enjoy as what is on offer is fantastic. One of the best places to relax with a coffee anywhere in Harrogate.

To sum up

You might think that coming to Harrogate is only for a certain demographic or certain types of people. This beautiful and picturesque town has it all. Looking for great picture opportunities? It has it. Looking for great hotels in Harrogate? It has it as well. Looking for restaurants that serve only the best food around? It’s also here. Looking for that perfect bar or pub for a beer or gin? Yes, right again, Harrogate ticks this box.

No matter what you’re looking for, this is a place to come to be enjoyed. Due to its location it’s only a few hours from Scotland as well as further south. Whether you’re coming here for the night (we suggest at least a couple of days) you’ll find something to keep you occupied.
Book your next trip to Harrogate with the UK’s number one booking company and create memories that last, not just in our hotels but in the amenities and attractions that are on offer.

No matter the time of year, summer through winter, Harrogate is a place to be admired and appreciated all year round. Enjoy the sights and sounds of this historic place, you won’t regret it.

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