What Harrogate has to offer
Famous for its healing waters, this Victorian spa town oozes cosmopolitan charm, smart streets and quaint mews. Enjoy fabulous shopping, atmospheric cafés, fine restaurants and plenty of green open spaces. Browse antiques and unusual gifts in the stylish Montpellier Quarter or watch the world go by in Betty's Tea Rooms. Stroll around Harrogate, admiring its beautiful floral displays along the way. The most attractive green spots include, the Stray, 200 acres of green lawns surrounding the town; Valley Gardens, featuring well-heads of Harrogate's famous spa water; Royal Horticultural Society Garden Harlow Carr close to lush, green pine woods. Explore Harrogate's spa history at the Royal Pump Room Museum. Check out its Royal and famous visitors, see the sulphur wells and taste the strongest sulphur water in Europe.
Harrogate International Festival was launched in 1966, and has grown into one of the region's leading cultural organisations, working year round to bring the finest in performing arts, literature and community participation to Harrogate and Yorkshire.
Hotel du Vin Harrogate supports HIF with weekly live music on Friday nights and crime writing readings from authors during the festival in July.