Find out what’s new in Harrogate, a delightful town perfect for a day out.
A charming spa town turned thriving day-trip destination; Harrogate has plenty of attractions to delight visitors of all ages.
The town was voted as the happiest place to live in the UK for three consecutive years in polls by Rightmove, and in 2024 it was given the accolade once again in a poll by Furniturebox. So just what is it that makes this town so special?
Historically, visitors have flocked to Harrogate to reap the health benefits of its famous water. In 1571, William Slingsby realised that the natural waters on the boggy land near High Harrogate had similar health properties to the waters of the Belgium town, Spa, which lends its name to places of rest and relaxation still to this day. By the late 19th century, Harrogate had developed into an elegant spa town, drawing people from all over the world to ‘take the waters’. Of course Slingsby Gin is now a favourite tipple around the world, while the town’s reputation as a spa town is beautifully preserved at the Turkish Baths, an opulent haven of relaxation. With its intricate Moorish design, soothing treatments, and thermal experiences, the baths offer a rejuvenating escape.
Harrogate’s Victorian charm is palpable the moment you arrive. The Royal Pump Room, with its ornate façade, stands as another testament to the town’s storied past as a premier spa retreat. This iconic landmark is a window into the era when visitors flocked to Harrogate for its reputedly healing mineral waters.
A leisurely stroll through the Montpellier Quarter reveals beautifully preserved Victorian arcades and cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, galleries, and cafés. The area’s old-world ambiance offers a delightful shopping and sightseeing experience.
It’s no surprise that visitors of Harrogate are well-contented, with the fabulous food and drink scene. The town has drawn in several new establishments which will delight visitors, not least of which is the new bar The Wicked Wolf, which recently set up in the unit formerly occupied by the Potting Shed, Rift & Co, and Revolution. Complete with a karaoke room and open until 3am on the weekends, this spot definitely lives up to its name. Katie O’Brien’s, high off its Leeds city centre success, opened a Harrogate branch in early December, bringing a taste of Ireland to the town. If its afternoon tea you are after, and let’s face it, you are in the right town, Pudding Lab’s new Harrogate branch is well worth a visit, an exquisite patisserie.
There’s plenty to look forward to in the future, with a couple of new bars and eateries soon to open. Ange Pitta Star will be serving up traditionalGreekstreetfoodtotakeaway,while The Mayfair Pub & Kitchen is set to delight in the unit formerly taken by Jamie’s Italian.
It’s not just food and drink that evolves, Spire Healthcare have just opened a new branch on Hornbeam Park Avenue, after a £13.5 million investment. The surgery with provide 1,500 surgical procedures every year and has created 30 new jobs in the community.
There are also some fabulous businesses around that have stood the test of time, Morgan Clare, a ladies boutique is celebrating 27 years in the town, and continues to excite its loyal customer base with the latest trends. The Pavilions of Harrogate and the Yorkshire Event Centre have merged to become the Great Yorkshire Events Centre up at the Great Yorkshire Showground, and the Harrogate Convention Centre and Harrogate Theatre continue to provide high profile shows.
Harrogate is renowned for its magnificent gardens, each offering a unique experience: RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a horticultural masterpiece features meticulously landscaped grounds, themed gardens, and ever-changing seasonal displays. A visit here is a feast for the senses, from vibrant blooms to tranquil water features. The Valley Gardens are favourite among natureenthusiasts;itswell-maintainedflower beds, wooded areas, and peaceful atmosphere make it an idyllic retreat.
The town has it’s share of Jewish history to explore as well. The community first established a synagogue in 1918, in rooms above an antique shop in the Montpellier Quarter. It wasn’t until 1925 that the congregation, named Harrogate Hebrew Congregation, made the move to its current site on St Mary’s Walk, in what used to be a church school building, with the synagogue – which is still operational to this day – being built in 1968. There is also a plaque outside Rhodes Wood Tailors on Parliament Street to commemorate the renowned Jewish Tailor Louis Copé, whose shop used to operate from the site.
Harrogate effortlessly blends historic charm, natural beauty, and modern indulgence. From its architectural treasures to its serene gardens and luxurious spas, this town offers something for everyone.
