There are historic shopping areas, lush gardens, relaxing spas, and a host of family-friendly activities to do in this lovely corner of the country.
Currently, you will find some fantastic Harrogate hotel deals giving you the perfect base to enjoy all the town has to offer, meaning there’s no excuse not to go. In the following article, we have compiled a list of all our favorite things to do in Harrogate. Whether you are traveling as a couple, or with your younglings, you are sure to find something fun and exciting to do here in Harrogate.
RHS Harlow Carr
One of the five public gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society, the RHS Carr was designed to celebrate the beauty and splendor of the Yorkshire countryside. It has vast wildflower meadows, woodland walks, colorful borders, and more. One of the most beautiful spectacles is a Streamside Garden that flows back and forth along a picturesque mountain stream. Then there are kitchen gardens, alpine meadows, and Classic Edwardian Garden, and a haven for local wildlife at Queen Mother’s Lake. Children will love exploring the adventure playground and meeting the prickly little characters making their way around Hedgehog Street.
Harrogate’s Turkish Baths
There is one institution that was first established back in 1897, The Turkish Baths were built in the Victorian Era with ornate Italian floors, Moorish Décor, and colorful tiles. This majestic institution has been fully restored to its ancient glory. Begin your relaxing journey in the Frigidarium, before making your way through the various heat chambers before finally making it to the Turkish baths. Today you will find a wide selection of additional relaxation services including facials, spas, massages, and manicures. If you are visiting with your partner, you may enjoy a special couple’s treatment.
Rudding Park Spa
But there are other places to improve your relaxation and health that are worth your attention. The Rudding Park Spa features an infinity pool and a panoramic sauna as part of the first rooftop spa in the UK. Had on over to learn more about the benefits of Juniper Log saunas, Mud Rasul, and the true definition of ‘pampering’.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
Studley Royal Park was inducted into the ranks of a World Heritage site in 1986 and is one of the few sites in the UK that has received this prestigious title from UNESCO. This lovely site of antique abbey ruins features a beautiful water garden and is located in Nidderdale on the edge of Harrogate.
You will find riverside walks, romantic statues, tranquil ponds, and a deer park that is home to a variety of graceful sika, fallow, and red deer. There is also a large park that will keep the most energetic children occupied — a great place to plan a picnic.
Stockeld Park
One of the most family-friendly locations in Harrogate and was designed to be a wonderland for small children. You will find fairies, talking trees, and plenty of adventure in an enchanted forest in the very center of the park. There is also a boating lake, playground equipment, and a magical maze to be explored.
Mother Shipton’s Cave
Just a few miles away from Harrogate in the town of Knaresborough is Mother Shipton’s Café. This is the birthplace of the world-renown prophetess and a strange well that will transform just about anything into stone. There are parklands and beautiful walks through the Knaresborough Royal Forest. Don’t pass up the wishing well that has made countless dreams come true.
