Famous for its healing waters, this Victorian spa town oozes cosmopolitan charm, smart streets and quaint mews. Enjoy fabulous shopping, atmospheric cafés, fine restaurants, plenty of green open spaces, and a host of other Harrogate attractions when staying at our hotel.
Browse antiques and unusual gifts in the stylish Montpellier Quarter or watch the world go by in Betty's Tea Rooms. Stroll around Harrogate, admiring its beautiful floral displays along the way. The most attractive green spots include, the Stray, 200 acres of green lawns surrounding the town; Valley Gardens, featuring well-heads of Harrogate's famous spa water; Royal Horticultural Society Garden Harlow Carr close to lush, green pine woods. Explore Harrogate's spa history at the Royal Pump Room Museum. Check out its Royal and famous visitors, see the sulphur wells and taste the strongest sulphur water in Europe. Find out more about the top Harrogate attractions below.
THE VALLEY GARDENS
Harrogate grew in prominence as a Victorian spa town, so no visit is complete without exploring the English Heritage Grade II listed Valley Gardens. Sprawling over 17 acres, the gardens contain the highest number of mineral springs globally. In addition to visiting the appropriately named Bog Fields, you can explore the Japanese, sensory, and other gardens, go boating on the pond, splash in a paddling pool, marvel at gorgeous floral displays and enjoy a hot cuppa at the café.
THE ROYAL PUMP ROOM MUSEUM
Once the most outstanding of Harrogate’s attractions, the Royal Pump Room was a cool, calm, and collected space in which affluent visitors could take the famous curing waters. One of those famous visitors was Tsarina Alexandra of Russia, who took the waters in 1911. The Pump Room closed after visitor numbers dwindled, and the space reopened as a museum in 1953. Wander past displays of old-world shops, a hotel, and the Stray Park, learn about the town’s connection to Russian royalty, and immerse yourself in other aspects of the town’s history.
BRIMHAM ROCKS
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll agree that Brimham Rocks is one of the ultimate Harrogate attractions. The Natural Trust site is home to several otherworldly 30-foot-high rock formations with names such as the Camel, Dancing Bear, and Sphinx. One of the best ways to see these boulders that were formed more than 30 million years ago is by following the route from the Pateley Bridge village. While in the village, pop into the Oldest Sweet Shop In The World (Guinness Book of World Records verified), which was established in 1827!
THE TURKISH BATHS
Why visit one of England’s most famous old spa towns and not indulge in a bit of well-deserved R&R? One of the most relaxing Harrogate attractions, the Turkish Baths is an ornate Moorish-style bath house built in the 1800s. Start off by relaxing in the Frigidarium before making your way to the Steam Room, various heated chambers, and the Plunge Pool, and then returning to the Frigidarium for more relaxation. You can take the experience to the next level by booking an aromatic massage or other treatments.
BETTYS CAFÉ TEA ROOMS
Established by a Swiss confectioner in 1919, Bettys Café Tea Rooms has become something of an institution in the town. Treat yourself to afternoon tea in this elegant café where staff in period costume will present you with an array of delectable morsels on silver cake stands and pots of hot tea while you enjoy the view of the Montpelier Gardens. Tip: Book your afternoon tea online to avoid the queue.
COLD BATH ROAD
One of the top Harrogate attractions for visitors who enjoy a spot of retail therapy, Cold Bath Road offers bohemian vibes, independent boutiques and shops selling artisanal and vintage goods, and quirky pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Take a slow stroll down the road, explore what’s on offer, and wind up with a drink at the Last Post. Altogether charming, Harrogate is a wonderful place to visit.
Make the most of your time here when you stay at our hotel by taking in the best Harrogate attractions.
