About Harrogate
Harrogate Today:
Central Harrogate, often referred to as the heart of the town, is surrounded by the picturesque ‘the Stray’ or ‘Two Hundred Acres’ to the south and west. To the east and north, it borders High Harrogate and the Duchy estate, respectively. This vibrant district serves as a retail hub, with the Victoria Shopping Centre hosting a variety of major retail chains.
The main thoroughfares in the central area are the pedestrianized Cambridge Street and Oxford Street, which is also home to the Famous Theatre. For those seeking designer shopping and upmarket department stores, Parliament Street, Montpellier, and James Street are ideal destinations. Additionally, on the outskirts you can find an Odeon cinema, as well as Asda and Waitrose supermarkets. Marks and Spencer boasts a large food hall in its store on Oxford Street, catering to various culinary preferences.
For those looking to unwind and savour Harrogate’s nightlife, numerous bars and restaurants await on Cheltenham Crescent and John Street. The Royal Baths and Parliament Street serve as the epicentre of the town’s nighttime activities.
The southern part of central Harrogate predominantly consists of detached houses that have been converted into offices. However, Victoria Avenue is home to the Magistrates’ Court and Harrogate Central Library. Strolling along the Stray in central southern Harrogate, you’ll come across some upmarket boutiques. Oatlands, situated in the south of Harrogate, is known for its affluence and is home to two schools, Oatlands Primary School and Oatlands Infant School, as well as some allotments.
Woodlands, in the southeast of the town, borders Starbeck and Knaresborough Road. Notable landmarks in this area include Harrogate Town F.C., Willow Tree Primary School, and Morrisons and Sainsbury’s supermarkets, along with the Woodlands pub.
The Towns charm is well-acknowledged, as evidenced by its consistent high rankings in surveys like Rightmove’s. According to a survey published on 4 December 2019, It was rated the second happiest place to live in the UK. The town’s appeal can be attributed to its beautiful open spaces, such as the Stray and Valley Gardens, and its impressive architectural landmarks like the Royal Hall and Turkish Baths.
Harrogate’s culinary scene is diverse, offering options like the famous Bettys for delectable afternoon tea or Gino D’Acampo’s rooftop terrace-bar for a glass of champagne. This Victorian spa town is not only elegant but also a bustling and thriving community.
The Harrogate Guide plays a crucial role in promoting the town. It provides a wealth of information on places to visit, local events, news stories, job opportunities, and more, making it a ‘one-stop-shop’ for locals seeking to stay updated with what’s happening in town. From upcoming events like the Tour de Yorkshire 2020 to local interest stories like the contactless payment terminal outside Marks and Spencer on Oxford Street to assist those in need, The Harrogate Guide keeps residents informed and engaged in the happenings of their beloved town.
The Harrogate Guide is your comprehensive resource, not only for the people but also for those planning to visit and enjoy all that this charming town has to offer. Within its pages, you’ll discover a wealth of information on the best places to explore and find accommodation during your stay.
Harrogate’s allure extends far and wide, drawing in over 200,000 visitors annually. This popularity isn’t just due to its picturesque charm, but also because of the multitude of events it hosts. The International Convention Centre is the beating heart of this vibrant community, hosting trade shows, concerts, comedy stand-ups, fairs, exhibitions, and entertainment year-round. The town has also gained recognition as a hub for international sporting events, such as the Tour de Yorkshire and, more recently, the UCI Road World Championships, which captivated an audience of 250 million TV viewers.
At Visit Harrogate UK, we’re committed to supporting the local businesses, events, and charitable causes that make this town thrive. We showcase them on our social media channels and website, amplifying their presence and in turn, bolstering our community. If you’re a local business, we invite you to join us today, and your name will soon shine brightly in our virtual spotlight.
Visit Harrogate UK caters to everyone – residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Isn’t it time you explored all that it has has to offer?
Maps of Harrogate are readily available on our site, guiding you through the town’s treasures, including walking, cycling, and running routes, Yorkshire tourism maps, historical Harrogate County maps from 1832, postcodes, and more.
Now, let’s delve into the beauty of the Harrogate Stray. This expansive area of public parkland, spanning 200 acres, lies at the heart of Harrogate. It connects the town’s renowned curative springs and wells, offering both a haven of greenery and a recreational space for the public. With its lush grass parkland, the Stray is one of Harrogate’s most iconic landmarks, providing an ideal setting for games, leisurely strolls, and relaxation. Nearby, an array of food and drink shops ensures you have all you need for a delightful day out.
The Stray is more than just a park; it’s a symbol of Harrogate’s heritage. The area was historically part of the Forest of Knaresborough, eventually falling under the ownership of the Duchy of Lancaster. In the 18th century, Harrogate began to grow within the forest, leading to concerns about illegal land encroachments. The Act of Enclosure in 1770 recognized the value of the unenclosed land that allowed visitors access to mineral springs, dedicating a portion of it for public use.
Throughout its history, the Stray has been the focus of various acts of parliament, ensuring its continued unenclosed status and protection. Today, it remains a place for parades, civic events, and community gatherings. The Stray is not just a piece of land; it’s an integral part of Harrogate’s identity, a place where people come together to celebrate and enjoy the town’s unique character.
Visit Harrogate UK is your gateway to the beauty, culture, and community of Harrogate. It’s a testament to the town’s vibrancy, serving residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Discover Harrogate’s hidden gems, explore its rich history and make the most of your time in this remarkable town.
Harrogate, a picturesque town in North Yorkshire, boasts a rich history and an abundance of attractions. Renowned for its therapeutic spa waters containing iron, sulphur, and common salt, the town earned the moniker ‘The English Spa’ during the Georgian era, a tradition dating back to the 16th century. In the 17th and 18th centuries, its chalybeate waters, rich in iron, were highly sought-after for their health benefits.
Transportation to and from Harrogate is well-facilitated, with the railway station and bus station at the town center, providing convenient travel connections. For those traveling by air, Leeds Bradford Airport is a mere 10 miles away. The town is strategically linked by major roads such as the A61, connecting Harrogate to Leeds and Ripon, and the A59, which offers a direct route to York and Skipton. Additionally, the A661 provides a connection to Wetherby and the A1(M), while the A658 forms a bypass around the southern periphery of the town.
Harrogate is not only a historical gem but a vibrant contemporary town. Its beauty is exemplified by the open spaces of the Stray and Valley Gardens and the exquisite architecture of landmarks like the Royal Hall and Turkish Baths. The town is teeming with charming cafes and restaurants, and it’s also home to thriving international businesses. Harrogate truly caters to diverse tastes, whether you seek a delightful afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys tearoom or wish to enjoy a glass of champagne at Gino D’Acampo’s rooftop terrace-bar. This town epitomizes elegance, vibrancy, and variety.
Visit Harrogate UK is the ultimate resource for locals, offering a comprehensive overview of everything this town has to offer. We provide invaluable information on places to visit, local events, news stories, job opportunities, and more. It’s a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all that’s currently happening in the town, making it an indispensable resource for residents. You can stay updated on upcoming events like the Tour de Yorkshire 2020 and also read engaging local interest stories, such as the recent feature on the contactless payment terminal set up outside Marks and Spencer on Oxford Street, which was aimed at assisting those experiencing homelessness. Explore the charm and vibrancy of Harrogate with us.
Harrogate accommodation
Welcome to Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate, an exceptional retreat nestled in the heart of historic Harrogate. Managed with excellence and boasting an incredible team, our hotel stands as a testament to luxury and tranquility. Situated amidst the picturesque Stray parkland, our accommodations provide a breathtaking view of 200 acres of pristine beauty, creating an ideal haven for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Steeped in history, our property dates back to 1671, marking the site of the town’s inaugural hotel. Merging the charm of the past with modern comforts, Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate offers superfast Wi-Fi and contemporary facilities. Conveniently located just a short stroll away from the city center, our hotel places you within reach of renowned attractions such as Bettys Tea Room, the unique Moorish-style Turkish Baths, Harrogate Theatre, and the charming town of Knaresborough.
Indulge in the luxury of our 100 modern bedrooms and suites, each designed for comfort and style. Take a virtual tour with our 360 TOUR to get a sneak peek into the elegance awaiting you.
Key Features:
Four-Star Hotel
Check-in: 3 pm, Check-out: 11 am
100 modern bedrooms & suites
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
Ample parking with 150 spaces
Dog-friendly accommodations
Excitingly, we now offer all-new weekender packages, providing you the flexibility to choose when your weekend begins. Whether you opt for a 1, 2, or 3-night escape to rejuvenate in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, our packages start from just £79* per night. Enjoy perks such as a £15 dinner allowance, a welcoming glass of prosecco, and complimentary breakfast. Offers are correct at the time of publishing but may change.
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Crowne Plaza
Location: King’s Rd, Harrogate HG1 1XX
Phone: 01423 84998
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Acorn Lodge
Location: 1 Studley Rd, Harrogate HG1 5JU
Phone: 01423 525630
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Arden House
Location: 69-71 Franklin Rd, Harrogate HG1
Phone: 01423 50922
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Cairn Hotel
Location: Ripon Rd, Harrogate HG1 2JD
Phone: 01423 504005
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Hotel du Vin & Bistro
Location: Prospect Pl, Harrogate HG1 1LB
Phone: 01423 608121
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Majestic Hotel a DoubleTree by Hilton
Location: Ripon Road, Harrogate, HG1 2HU
Phone: 01423 700 300
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Queens Head Inn
Location: Kettlesing Lane, Kettlesing, Harrogate HG3 2LB
Phone: 01423 770263
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Rudding Park
Location: Rudding Ln, Follifoot, Harrogate HG3 1JH
Phone: 01423 844822
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Sherwood HotelLocation: 7 Studley Rd, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 5JU
Phone: 01423 503033
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Studley Hotel
Location: 28 Swan Road, Harrogate HG1 2SE
Phone: 01423 560425
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The Camberley
Location: 52-54 Kings Rd, Harrogate HG1 5JR
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The Crown Hotel Harrogate
Location: Crown Place, Harrogate HG1 2RZ
Phone: 01423 567755
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The George Hotel & Carvery
Location: Wormald Green Harrogate HG3 3PR
Phone: 01765 676700
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The Old Swan Hotel
Location: Swan Rd, Harrogate HG1 2SR
Phone: 01423 500055
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The West Park Hotel
Location: 19 West Park Harrogate HG1 1BJ
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The Yorkshire Hotel
Location: Prospect Pl, Harrogate HG1 1LA
Phone: 01423 706700
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Travelodge Harrogate
Location: The Ginnel, Off Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2RB
Tel: 08719 846238
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Travelodge Harrogate West Park
Location: Tower Street, Harrogate, HG1 1HS
Tel: 08715 591874