15 Unmissable Things to Do in Harrogate
Harrogate may be famous for its elegant architecture and spa heritage, but there’s so much more to discover than beautiful buildings.
Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing weekend, celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a longer break, you’ll find plenty to fill your days. From award-winning gardens and independent shops to castles, countryside and afternoon tea, there’s something for everyone.
Staying in one of our Luxury Serviced Apartments in Harrogate means you’re perfectly placed to enjoy it all.
Here are some of our favourite things to do during your visit.
1. Visit RHS Garden Harlow Carr
One of Yorkshire’s most beautiful gardens, Harlow Carr is worth visiting in every season. Wander through woodland walks, colourful borders and peaceful streams before treating yourself to coffee and cake at the famous Bettys café.
📍 Crag Lane, Harrogate HG3 1QB
☎ 01423 565418
www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr
2. Treat Yourself to Afternoon Tea at Bettys
No trip to Harrogate is complete without afternoon tea at Bettys. Whether you choose tea and cake or the full afternoon tea experience, it’s one of the town’s most iconic traditions.
📍 1 Parliament Street, Harrogate HG1 2QU
☎ 01423 814070
3. Explore the Valley Gardens
Just a short stroll from our apartments, Valley Gardens offers 17 acres of beautiful gardens, woodland walks, colourful flower displays and plenty of space to relax. It’s lovely throughout the year and completely free to visit.
📍 Valley Drive, Harrogate HG2 0JH
www.northyorks.gov.uk/parks-and-play-areas/valley-gardens-harrogate
4. Browse the Independent Shops
Harrogate is full of independent boutiques, gift shops and galleries. Spend an afternoon wandering through the Montpellier Quarter where you’ll find fashion, antiques, homeware and artisan food shops tucked away in charming streets.
5. Discover the Turkish Baths
One of Harrogate’s most famous attractions, the beautifully restored Turkish Baths offer a wonderfully relaxing experience and a fascinating glimpse into the town’s spa history.
📍 Parliament Street
www.turkishbathsharrogate.co.uk
6. Walk Around the Stray
The Stray is one of Harrogate’s best-loved landmarks. Covering 200 acres of open grassland surrounding the town centre, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk, morning run or picnic.
7. Visit Ripley Castle
Only a short drive away, Ripley Castle offers beautiful gardens, fascinating history and lovely tearooms. The picturesque village is also worth exploring.
📍 Ripley, Harrogate HG3 3AY
8. Explore Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fountains Abbey is one of the most spectacular historic attractions in Yorkshire. Allow several hours to explore the abbey ruins, water gardens and deer park.
📍 Near Ripon
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden
9. Visit Harrogate Theatre
From comedy and live music to touring West End productions, Harrogate Theatre has something happening throughout the year.
10. Experience the Great Yorkshire Showground
Depending on when you’re visiting, the showground hosts exhibitions, antique fairs, Christmas events and, of course, the world-famous Great Yorkshire Show.
11. Enjoy a Round of Golf
Harrogate is surrounded by excellent golf courses including Pannal, Harrogate Golf Club and Rudding Park.
Perfect if you’re planning a golfing break.
12. Visit Mother Shipton’s Cave
England’s oldest visitor attraction is only 15 minutes away in Knaresborough. Explore the famous cave, the Petrifying Well and beautiful riverside walks.
13. Explore Knaresborough
Just a few minutes by train or car, Knaresborough is one of Yorkshire’s prettiest market towns. Visit the castle, walk along the river or hire a rowing boat beneath the famous viaduct.
14. Take a Trip into the Yorkshire Dales
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Harrogate is how easy it is to reach the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Whether you’re looking for gentle walks, charming villages or breathtaking scenery, it’s all within easy reach.
15. Finish the Day with Dinner
After a day exploring, Harrogate has an incredible choice of restaurants.
Take a look at our guide to our favourite places to eat.
Make Staycays Your Base for Exploring Yorkshire
Harrogate is perfectly placed for discovering some of Yorkshire’s best attractions, while offering fantastic restaurants, shopping and beautiful green spaces right on your doorstep.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or a longer stay, our luxury serviced apartments provide the perfect base to explore everything Harrogate has to offer.
Browse our luxury serviced apartments and start planning your Yorkshire escape.
