GARDENS: The Valley Gardens are an English Heritage Grade II listed park-land, themed gardens and historic buildings in regal Low Harrogate. Containing a greater number of mineral springs than any other known place – visit the area known as Bogs Field where 36 different mineral wells were discovered. The adjacent Pinewoods is a further 96 acres of woodland with footpaths leading to RHS Garden Harlow Carr, located on the outskirts of the town and one of Yorkshire’s most relaxing and innovative gardens at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. A showcase of horticultural excellence all year round.
SHOPPING: Once a popular destination for European high society, today Harrogate shopping is just as stylish and is well known for its eclectic, elegant and diverse range of shops. With well-loved leading high street names and quality brands sitting alongside stylish independents, you will be spoilt for choice.
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES: The Royal Pump Room Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region with the building’s historical significance and architectural beauty making it a notable landmark in Harrogate. The Mercer Art Gallery with its ever-changing exhibitions was built 200 years ago as the Promenade rooms as a place for spa visitors to socialise. It later became a theatre, then a Town Hall, before becoming Mercer Art Gallery in 1991.
ARCHITECTURE: Harrogate made its name as a fashionable Victorian spa, and the buildings in central Harrogate reflect this heritage with beautiful examples of 19th-century architecture. St Peter’s church in the centre of the town features outstanding Victorian glass windows and St Wilfred’s Church, the only Grade I listed building in the town, is an exceptional example of early 20th-century architecture.
TURKISH BATHS: Perfecting the art of relaxation since 1897, the ornate Moorish bathhouse with glazed brickwork and painted ceilings is the ideal space to switch off from it all and unwind. In its heyday, Harrogate was known as ‘the English spa’ and the Turkish Baths offer a unique experience of relaxation and rejuvenation in the genuine Victorian Baths as well as a range of contemporary treatments.
GASTRONOMY: Yorkshire’s reputation for outstanding food and drink is distilled into Harrogate’s mix of independent restaurants and familiar high street names. Drawing upon food culture from across the globe the vast array of eateries cater for all appetites and tastes. Opened in 1919, and still as popular today, a visit to the famous Betty’s Tearooms is a must with a mouth-watering selection of over 300 cakes and breads and over 50 different types of tea and coffee.