Harrogate, England Tourist Attractions
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Harrogate (pop. 65,000) lies 36mi/58km east of York and is an important spa town in the north of England. It owes its fame to the medicinal springs discovered here in the 16th century, which are mainly rich in sulfur and iron. Today Harrogate is primarily a holiday resort and a venue for congresses. Its parks are filled with flowers, often earning the town the title of "Britain's Floral Resort". Harrogate is also a popular residential town, and, although it has little industry, many large firms have their administrative offices here. Harrogate enjoys a good reputation for shopping on account of its elegant boutiques and numerous antiques shops.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
RHS Garden Harlow Carr are located on the fringe of the spa town of Harrogate. The gardens extend over 68 acres and are a year round attraction. In addition to diverse garden types you will also find a museum of gardening, a children's play area and a model village of slate and stone. Guided walks and demonstrations ensure something of interest for everyone.
Royal Pump Room Museum
Harrogate's Royal Pump Room, the former pump room above the sulfur spring, has become a museum. It is a pleasure to stroll in its beautiful gardens, with the Spray supposedly the largest lawn in the world.
Conference Centre
The modern Conference and Exhibition Center is in King's Road.
Harrogate Gardens
The Valley Gardens in Harrogate town center are magnificent, and Fountain Court, with its bubbling springs, should not be missed. Harlow Hill offers a fine view across the spa and as far as York and the Humber. Lovers of flowers must visit extensive Harlow Car Gardens in Otley Street, which belong to the Horticultural Society.
Harrogate International Festival
This two-week festival runs from late July to early August and is considered to be the premier arts festival in northern England.Events include all types of musical concerts, as well as dance, opera and drama performances, cabarets and a street theater festival.
Ripley Castle
Ripley Castle offers insight into the influence of history on one family over 24 generations. Visitors can tour the interior of the castle and view their extensive furniture and art collections. Outside there are beautiful walled gardens and a lakeside walk.
Yorkshire Riding Centre
Cross country rides through the surroundings of historic Harrogate are available from this center. Equitation holidays, including dressage and jumping are also offered for riders of all abilities. Facilities include indoor and outdoor arenas, show jumping areas and a cross-country course.
Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks rise nearly 300 meters out of the moorland near Nidderdale. This area is also rich in wildlife.
International Youth Music Festival
This annual week-long festival brings together choirs, bands, orchestras and dance troupes from around the world.
Spofforth Castle
Manor house which once belonged to the Percy family has some fascinating features including an undercroft built into the rock.
Spring Flower Festival
This festival is Britain's largest spring show and takes place at the Valley Gardens in Harrogate.
Surroundings
Knaresborough
Knaresborough (pop. 13,379) is a market town with limestone quarries and the ruins of an ancient castle. The castle is of some historic interest as Richard II was imprisoned there in 1399. Knaresborough also is noted for having the oldest chemist shop in England, it opened in 1720.
Boroughbridge
Boroughbridge has a rich history with a Roman settlement nearby and three standing stones believed to be from the Bronze Age. The standings stones are known as "The Devil's Arrows".
Aldborough Roman Town
Aldbrough Roman Town is an English Heritage property located in Boroughbridge, 20km northeast of Harrogate. It was the principal town of the Brigantes, the largest tribe in Roman Britain. There are remains of the Roman defenses and two pavements from a large town house.
Aldbrough Roman Town
Aldbrough Roman Town is an English Heritage property located in Boroughbridge, 20km northeast of Harrogate. It was the principal town of the Brigantes, the largest tribe in Roman Britain. There are remains of the Roman defenses and two pavements from a large town house.
