Sandwiched between the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors is the charming and historic town of Harrogate. 

The North Yorkshire spa town, famed for its beautiful green spaces and the benefits of its mineral waters, is brimming with vibrant, independent eateries, bars and shops. 

Easily walkable, it is awash with great history, culture and stunning architecture, making it a delight to explore.

Where to stay in Harrogate

Picking the best caravan park will always be an important part of getting the most from a tour. If you’re heading to this part of the country, we’d recommend Harrogate Caravan Park. The serene site is on the town’s doorstep, home to spacious pitches and an excellent farm shop.

Alternatively, Rudding Holiday Park could be worth considering if you’re looking for a dog-friendly caravan site – it offers leafy surroundings, hardstanding pitches and even a swimming pool.

What to do in Harrogate on Day 1

10am – On parade

Fuel up for the busy day ahead at Hoxton North, on the Royal Parade. Oozing with local atmosphere, this laid-back, London-inspired café serves fresh, simple breakfasts and delicious brunches inspired by the seasons. 

12pm – Take a tour

An essential part of Harrogate’s welcoming tourist scene is the walking tour of the town, led by Harry, a local expert and a very informative guide. 

Departing from the War Memorial, opposite the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms, this 80-minute tour will take you on a gentle stroll through the town’s fascinating history. 

2pm – Pause for lunch

Only four minutes away from the War Memorial, walking via Montpellier Gardens, you’ll find La Feria, a contemporary Spanish restaurant where you can unwind over a relaxing lunch. They offer an authentic and tasty menu of tapas, sharing boards and salads, along with a well-curated wine list. 

4pm – Community spirit

After lunch, wander down Cold Bath Road, also known as ‘the Notting Hill of Harrogate’. Lined with beautiful buildings and buzzing with community spirit, the road is home to more than 50 independent shops, restaurants, bakeries and cafés. 

At the bottom of the street, take a right on Valley Mount and you’ll find Valley Gardens. Here, there are 17 lush acres of English Heritage Grade II listed gardens, woodland and footpaths, all just waiting to be explored.

Valley Gardens
Explore 17 acres of lush greenery at Valley Gardens

6pm – Now add spice

Returning to the town centre, it’s time to make your way over to Spice Culture. It’s easy to see why this elegant Indian restaurant is a firm favourite among both locals and tourists, with its fine menu of beautifully presented dishes. To accompany your meal, they also serve an impressive range of beers, wines and cocktails. 

What to do on Day 2 

10am – A walk in the garden

One of the brightest jewels in Harrogate’s crown is Harlow Carr, the Royal Horticultural Society’s northernmost garden. 

Harlow Carr
Image: RHS Richard Bloom – Harlow Carr is the most northerly garden managed by the RHS;

This gorgeous landscape blends woodland, wildflower meadows, herb gardens and manicured grass, with features along the way including Doric columns, a birdwatching hide and sub-tropical gardens. 

After exploring, swing by the on-site Bettys Café Tea Rooms, to enjoy some of their signature brown bread ice cream. 

12pm – Buon appetito!

Pause for lunch back in town at Pranzo, a relatively new but hugely popular Harrogate restaurant. The cosy Italian eatery offers a light lunch menu of two courses for £16 or three for £19, with excellent options for the children. 

They specialise in indulgent homemade pasta, authentic starters and fine aperitivi. 

2pm – Cultural connections

A five-minute walk up Cold Bath Road brings you to the Mercer Art Gallery. Housed in the 200-year-old building where spa visitors once socialised, this free museum displays an ever-changing collection of paintings and exhibitions. 

Nearby is the Montpellier Quarter, where you can browse a fine selection of independent and luxury shops, or simply stop for a coffee at one of the trendy pavement cafés. 

Montpellier Quarter
Elegant shopping in the Montpellier Quarter

5pm – Dine in style

Head across town for an early dinner at Saranda. The relaxed bar and grill serves authentic and plentiful Greek, Albanian and Mediterranean food in a welcoming atmosphere.

7pm – Evening entertainment

As well as history and character, Harrogate is just bursting with culture and entertainment. 

You could catch a concert, talk or show at the Convention Centre. Alternatively, Harrogate Theatre has a great programme of theatre, music and comedy. 

Continental touch

Harrogate has more than one claim to international fame. In 1982, the town played host to the 27th Eurovision Song Contest, when Germany won the title. And in 2014, Harrogate was taken over by spectators for the Tour de France, when the finish line was set up in the town centre.

Where to eat

  • Oliveta: Mediterranean cuisine, including small plates and sharing boards, served in a cosy, rustic restaurant. 
  • The Wild Plum: Colourful café with locally sourced breakfast, lunch and light bite offerings.
  • The Tannin Level: “Yorkshire on a plate” – seasonal classics.

Head to our Best of British: Weekends Away section for more great touring ideas.

Lead image: Alamy


If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, why not get the latest news, reviews and features delivered direct to your door or inbox every month. Take advantage of our brilliant Practical Caravan magazine SUBSCRIBERS’ OFFER and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER for regular weekly updates on all things caravan related.