things to do in Harrogate

5 of the best things to do in Harrogate

by Northern Life

Harrogate is one of the most elegant destinations in Yorkshire. A famous spa town, Harrogate is jam packed with things to do from their famous Turkish baths right through to an award winning, famous tearoom as well as a long list of stylish shops. Warm and welcoming, Harrogate plays host to numerous events throughout the year. And with the Yorkshire Dales right on the doorstep is the ultimate, Yorkshire hotspot!

Bettys

1 Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2QU Find on a map

If there’s one place you must visit on a trip to Harrogate it’s Bettys! First established in the town on Cambridge Crescent almost 100 years ago in 1919, Bettys is the ultimate tea room. Bettys pride themselves on offering delicious treats and a warm Yorkshire welcome. Their extensive menus feature a mix of continental classics and British favourites, from a hearty breakfast and house specialities right through to sandwiches and divine desserts meaning Bettys has something for every taste. However, Bettys is perhaps most famous for their legendary afternoon teas. Indulge in freshly made sandwiches, dainty handmade cakes and scrumptious scones all served on a beautiful cake stand with a pot of their classic Tea Room Blend tea.

Fancy a bit of fizz? Not a problem, Bettys also serve champagne afternoon teas! And for those of you who really want the Bettys experience why not try their reservation only Lady Betty Afternoon Tea? Described as the ‘Palace of Afternoon Tea’, the Lady Betty afternoon tea takes place in their elegant Imperial Room and is the ultimate experience. Stylish, delicious and uniquely at Bettys, the Lady Betty afternoon tea is guaranteed to turn a celebration into an occasion. Fallen in love with their tea but live miles away? Worry not! Bettys also sell their tea blends online along with a range of other treats – perfect for enjoying the taste of Bettys from the comfort of your own home.

With so much on offer in such gorgeous surroundings, Bettys is an absolute must visit and the ultimate way to treat yourself and your loved ones.

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Ripley Castle

Ripley Castle, Ripley, Harrogate, HG3 3AY Find on a map

Situated just three miles north of Harrogate, Ripley Castle is a Grade I listed 14th century country house that is simply a must visit when in Harrogate. Ripley Castle offers a great day out for the whole family.  The Ingilby family have lived at Ripley Castle for over seven hundred years. They have prospered despite Civil War, marauding Scots, Royal Visitors and ancestors who picked the wrong side! The Castle tours share stories of Kings and Queens, civil war and plagues and secret chambers. Learn about the swashbuckling daughter who held a victorious enemy at gunpoint and clandestine love-affairs.

Explore the Walled Gardens and Deer Park and take lunch or afternoon tea in the Tea Rooms or visit The Boar’s Head, Coaching Inn for accommodation or a meal created using local produce. The village of Ripley also offers a collection of artisan shops and butchers.

With an abundance of history, a wealth of things to do and some truly spectacular sights, Ripley Castle is the ultimate day out for all the family.

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Nidderdale Llamas

Nidderdale Llamas

Kiln Farm, Wilsill, Pateley, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5EE Find on a map

If you’re looking for something different to do while in Harrogate, then Nidderdale Llamas will be right up your street. A family run trekking centre, Nidderdale Llamas allows you the opportunity to undergo treks with llamas and alpacas. You can get up close and personal with their gorgeous animals. All their llamas and alpacas are well cared for with no animals being allowed to be over petted, over worked or become stressed.

Nidderdale offers a variety of experiences from family experiences through to half day and full day treks. Each includes an introduction to a llama or alpaca that suits your personality – they cater for both groups and individuals with treks taking place every day except for Mondays.

However, pre-booking is essential as they are not an open farm. To pre-book visit their website.

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Harrogate Climbing Centre

The Zone, Hornbeam Park Avenue, Harrogate, HG2 8QT Find on a map

Looking to get active while in Harrogate? Then you simply must visit Harrogate Climbing Centre. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or looking to try it for the first time, Harrogate Climbing Centre has a range of options and courses that are guaranteed to get your blood pumping and your heart racing. With beginners courses in bouldering and climbing as well as courses for the experienced climber, Harrogate Climbing Centre is a great day out for the whole family. They also run open sessions and events including special outdoor climbing events meaning you can explore the local area in ways you never have before.

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ClueHQ

1 Prospect Crescent, Harrogate, HG1 1RH Find on a map

If you’re looking for a fun, exciting and exhilarating experience in Harrogate then look no further. Clue HQ is an escape room experience that is perfect for families, friends, nights out or even corporate team building events. Teams of between two and six people can be locked in one of their rooms. They are then given sixty minutes to work out a way to escape. Give your brain and body a workout by finding clues and solving puzzles to find items which you can then use to escape.

Want to see if you can escape? Then why not pay them a visit on your next trip to Harrogate?

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