How to Plan the Perfect Weekend in Harrogate
This charming spa town has plenty to offer
Eat
Brunch is done best at London-inspired coffeeshop Hoxton North, Bean & Bud is a great independent coffee shop and Starling serves craft beer and specialist coffee. If you’re after a traditional English pub, The Fat Badger is always a good choice serving cask ales, creative cocktails and fine wine; while The Coach & Horses has been a favourite amongst locals for more than 30 years. Popular restaurants in Harrogate include The Tannin Level (perfect for a pre-theatre dinner), Sukhothai (for sumptuous Thai food), Cardamom Black (Harrogate’s exclusive Asian dining restaurant) and The Pickled Sprout (the town’s newest botanical restaurant); and William & Victoria is the town’s longest running wine bar.
Sleep
The West Park Hotel offers award-winning menus, comfortable rooms and fantastic views over The Stray. The Chapel (a Grade II listed chapel conversion) offers ensuite bedrooms showcasing vibrant interiors which celebrate architecture, art and antiques. Just on the edge of Harrogate, Rudding Park is a luxurious hotel with 90 bedrooms and suites, as well as an award-winning spa, two restaurants, a kitchen garden, private cinema, two golf courses and 300 acres of landscaped gardens.
Browse
You can spend the whole day wandering Harrogate’s historic streets (The Montpellier Quarter is home to more than 50 independent shops itself) but here are just a few of the shops to take note of. Find award-winning gin at Spirit of Harrogate, great gifts at Sophie Likes, and sheepskin, wool and leather products at Westmorland Sheepskins. Find unique handmade jewellery at Inger & Rae, a carefully curated selection of designer clothing at Jules B and quality artwork and gifts at Lucy Pittaway Art Gallery.
DON’T MISS
Any visitor to Harrogate must experience Britain’s most fully restored Victorian Turkish Baths for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation in the most elegant surroundings. If you manage to pull yourself away, head over to Kiln Farm, home to Nidderdale Llamas, where you can enjoy trekking experiences with the llamas and alpacas. The Valley Gardens are another great space to spend time with the family (with a skate park and children’s playground).
Around the corner...
It’s always a good idea to reconnect with nature and RHS Harlow Carr is the perfect spot for a wander whatever time of year it is. Gardeners are sure to feel inspired as you make your way through, and your children will enjoy the adventure walks, forest school and outdoor shows throughout summer too.
