Harrogate is without questions one of the most elegant places that England has to offer. It’s home to a fabulous tearoom, relaxing Turkish baths, swanky boutique shops, high-end restaurants and beautiful parks. If that wasn’t enough, it also sits on the doorstep of the Yorkshire Dales.
There are plenty of fantastic places to stay too which will match every budget. Harrogate accommodation never fails to impress, do your research before you book and you’ll find some amazing bargains in beautiful listed buildings.
We’ve put together a list of the best things to do when you visit this Northern gem.
Detox Treatment
Harrogate is regarded as being the place where detox began. In years gone by a few glasses of sulphurous water that came up from the ground was viewed as the perfect treatment before breakfast. There are no studies out there to prove that this actually did any good, but people did seem to be healthier – that could be down to the strict diet and exercise culture within the town.
A visit the Royal Pump Room Museum will offer a great insight into the practices, the museum showcases items and photographs from the past. Today it is clear to see that therapy comes in the form of retail. The best place to head to is Parliament street where you will find a great number of independent shops.
Tea Time
If you ask any local in Harrogate for the best tearoom in town the answer will always be Bettys. It first opened its doors way back in 1919 and has been busy ever since. The reason people love this tearoom is that it is run so gracefully. You’ll find mouthwatering macaroons, the signature fat rascals, and more all served up on quintessential English cake stands. You can match your treat with any number of tea options.
You must know that you’ll be queuing when you go to Bettys, it’s seen as being part of the whole experience! We always go there mid-afternoon because that’s when you’re most likely to get a table on the ground floor instead of the basement.
For the experience and quality of the service, £17.50 seems like a very reasonable price indeed. I am yet to meet someone who was disappointed.
Turkish Heat
If the great British weather is up to its usual tricks then a Turkish bath is definitely what the doctor ordered. I can’t think of anything more appealing to do in Harrogate on a typically damp day that visiting the newly restored Turkish baths. They have constructed over 100 years ago, but are in very good condition due to funding from the National Lottery which allowed them to be renovated in 2004.
When I first went I was a little nervous that we’d be getting the full treatment of pummeling and scraping, so I was happy to find that it was super relaxing and even jumping into the cold bath was good fun too. The sauna rooms are beautiful and the Islamic arches and ceilings are great to lie back and look up at.
Have you been to Harrogate? We’d love to hear all about your experiences, tips and tales. Pop your thoughts down in the box below. I am really looking forward to reading everything you guys have to share.