Visit Harrogate - Agatha Christie's favourite spa town

Set in the heart of North Yorkshire, the area around Harrogate is one of the most spectacular areas of England with attractive towns and villages, imposing historic houses, castles, abbeys, beautiful countryside and a host of other natural and man-made attractions.

Harrogate hosted the 2019 UCI World Championships cycling event, supported by Welcome to Yorkshire.

Welcome to Harrogate

Expect exquisite gardens, beautiful parks, handsome tree-lined boulevards and a chance to lose yourself in the vibrant charm and elegance of this North Yorkshire destination.

Harrogate itself is a magnet for visitors, with it’s famous tea room at Betty’s, as well as amazing, high end shops, and parkland to die for in the World famous Stray owned by the monarch, the Duchy of Lancaster.

A spa town, renowned for its quality of water, Harrogate still has so much to offer that it’s high on any itinerary for a visit to Yorkshire.


Staying in Harrogate

When in need of some me time, Agatha Christie chose Harrogate as a place to stay, and it’s easy to see why. The town is so relaxing by day and by night, and there’s many cosy places to curl up and read a murder mystery novel!

Elmwood Cottage – Harrogate

Back Elmwood Street, Harrogate, HG1 5HE, United Kingdom

Albany House by Harrogate Serviced Apartments

14 Alexandra Road, Harrogate, HG1 5JS, United Kingdom

White Hart Hotel, BW Premier Collection

Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 0NF, United Kingdom

The above list is just an example of some of the accommodation in Harrogate. Have a look at our dedicated pages: Self Catering & Cottage Options and Hotels in Harrogate to view the full information by type.


Things to do in Harrogate

As well as incredible shopping, there’s lots to see and do in Harrogate, which is famous for its cafes and tea rooms, for those of us who like a little comfort while we eat and drink. You’re never left wanting in this pretty spa town. For a summary of the top things to do, click here.

Also make sure you visit Harrogate shopping optionsfood and drink options, and things to do with the family.


Events in Harrogate

A selection of events scheduled to take place in Harrogate over the coming weeks and months:

Test EVENT at EnviroVent Stadium, Harrogate

Wetherby Road, Harrogate, HG2 7SG

Date & Time:

April 26th, 2023 7:30pm

Jason Byrne: The Ironic Bionic Man at Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate

Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF

Date & Time:

October 6th, 2023 7:30pm

The Ultimate Boyband Party Show at The Royal Hall, Harrogate

Ripon Road, Harrogate, HG1 2RD

Date & Time:

October 28th, 2023 7:00pm

Carl Hutchinson: Watch Till the End at The Manhattan Club, Harrogate

Beech Avenue, Harrogate, HG2 8DY

Date & Time:

December 2nd, 2023 8:00pm

What’s Love Got To Do With It? at The Royal Hall, Harrogate

Ripon Road, Harrogate, HG1 2RD

Date & Time:

June 4th, 2023 7:00pm

Hyena Lounge Comedy Club at The Manhattan Club, Harrogate

Beech Avenue, Harrogate, HG2 8DY

Date & Time:

July 29th, 2023 8:00pm

Harrogate FAQ’s

Is Harrogate worth visiting?

With a heritage of thermal spa waters and elegant tea rooms, there’s no shortage of refined things to do in Harrogate. Harrogate is one of the UK’s prettiest and most affluent towns. Although often visited as a day trip from Leeds or York, the town is an excellent base in its own right for a special weekend away.

Why is Harrogate so popular?

Harrogate has long been a place where people head to to unwind and recharge. Famous for its cream teas, Turkish baths, and plentiful spas, it’s not surprising that everyone from Charles Dickens to European royalty have all flocked to Harrogate to enjoy the waters.

Is Harrogate a rich area?

Author. Harrogate has been ranked as the most expensive place for first time buyers in Yorkshire in a survey by Mojo Mortgages. The survey shows homes in Harrogate typically cost £401,747 compared to the national average of £287,830.


Harrogate on the map


Next stops

Near to Harrogate, and for the past few years (until 2023) in the same Borough, are Ripon, Knaresborough.