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Inspiration • August 11th, 2026
|Excitement is building as Raworths Salon North makes its much-anticipated return to Harrogate this September. This engaging event promises to be an enlightening evening filled with fascinating discussions about the power of the human mind, along with a chance to explore our intriguing fascination with the supernatural. The Salon will take place at The Crown Hotel, Harrogate, on Thursday, 24 September, starting at 7:30 PM.
Thought-Provoking Speakers
This edition of the Salon series, often referred to as a ‘night out for your brain,’ features an impressive line-up of speakers who will delve into how our brains shape our understanding of the world.
Deborah Hyde: An anthropologist, author, and folklore expert, Deborah will be exploring the reasons behind our fascination with the supernatural. Known for her appearances on TV shows like Strange Evidence and Mysteries at the Museum, she will discuss how beliefs in ghosts, vampires, and other unexplained phenomena reflect deeper truths about human nature.
Professor Adam Zeman: A neuroscientist who will take the audience on a journey through the extraordinary world of imagination. From daydreams to hallucinations, Adam will explain how our brains create the rich inner landscapes that shape our experiences and perceptions.
Dr Madeleine Pownall: A psychologist based at the University of Leeds, Dr Pownall will shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in the field of psychology. Her talk will reveal how these pioneering figures helped transform our understanding of the human mind.
Creating Connections
The event will be hosted by TV producer and presenter Natasha Knight, who will guide the audience through the evening of thought-provoking discussions.
Simon Morris, Managing Partner at Raworths, expressed enthusiasm about the event:
“As always, there is a great line-up of intriguing, thought-provoking speakers. This brilliant Salon Series never fails to challenge and entertain us.”
Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, added:
“The power of imagination has fascinated people for centuries, so I’m really looking forward to this Salon North event. There’s nothing else quite like these fantastic evenings that combine curiosity, creativity, and unexpected connections.”
A Unique Experience
Raworths Salon North is not just about the talks; it’s also a chance to connect with friends and fellow attendees over a drink from the bar. Guests can browse a bookstall run by the local bookseller, Imagined Things, making it a perfect opportunity to discover new reads and ideas while soaking up the inviting atmosphere.
Voted one of GQ magazine’s ‘Top 100 Things to do in the World,’ these unique evenings celebrate ideas, creativity, and the thrill of discovering something new. Each talk lasts around 25 minutes, providing an engaging and digestible format that keeps the audience interested and involved.
