Still wondering what to do in Harrogate? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Harrogate and book your hotel today!
Harrogate, an elegant spa town in North Yorkshire, is famous for its stunning Victorian and Georgian architecture, its 'health-giving' waters, and its beautiful gardens. The town's historical heart is the Royal Pump Room Museum and the beautifully restored Turkish Baths, where you can still enjoy traditional thermal spa experiences. Harrogate is a city synonymous with sophistication and charm.
You can wander through the stylish independent boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries of the Montpellier Quarter, or indulge in the famous afternoon tea experience at Betty's. The town is bordered by the magnificent Royal Horticultural Society's Harlow Carr Gardens, offering an urban escape. Harrogate offers a peaceful, stylish, and highly refined base for exploring the beauty of Yorkshire.
The best hotels in Harrogate are concentrated in the elegant town centre, offering easy access to the spa, shopping, and dining experiences.
The Town Centre, particularly the area around the Turkish Baths and the Convention Centre, is the best location for first-time visitors. Staying here places you close to all the main attractions, the shopping streets, and the widest range of hotels, from grand historic properties to modern options.
The Montpellier Quarter area, with its pedestrianised streets, offers a charming, upscale, and slightly more romantic base. Hotels here are close to the best antique shops, art galleries, and high-quality dining, providing an elegant, boutique atmosphere.
For those attending events or seeking convenience, the area near the Harrogate Convention Centre is highly practical, offering a range of modern hotels with good transport links and a short walk to the town centre.
Harrogate is served by Harrogate train station, which connects to Leeds and York. The nearest major airport is Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), with direct bus and rail links into the town. The town centre is highly walkable, and a good local bus service connects all the main areas.
To secure a competitive hotel rate in Harrogate, you must be extremely aware of the town's events and conference schedule. Harrogate is a major hub for large-scale national and international conventions, which significantly impacts hotel prices.
The most important factor to watch out for is the schedule of the Harrogate Convention Centre. Any major trade fair or convention will cause a short-term, drastic surge in hotel prices and limit availability across the entire town. For the best value, aim to book a stay during the quieter, off-season periods, particularly January or February, and always check the convention centre calendar to book outside of all major events.