Visit the Valley Gardens for striking works of architecture, live music and outdoor games. This National Heritage List for England site covers 17 acres (6.9 hectares) of lush greenery and woodland at the edge of Harrogate City Centre. A popular place for recreational activities, Valley Gardens played a key role in Harrogate’s history. Some 36 of the town’s 88 mineral springs were discovered here.
Bogs Field occupies a large portion of the gardens and is the location of the springs and wells. Old Magnesia Well Pump Room is also an information center home to educational exhibits. Admire the herbaceous borders and flower displays, such as brightly hued dahlias and scree beds, while strolling between the themed gardens. Varied flowers and shrubs add color to the colonnades, which run along the park’s northern border.
Watch wedding parties arrive at the Sun Pavilion, a grandiose event venue crowned by an art deco dome. Music lovers will enjoy open-air concerts held every Sunday afternoon between June and August. Breathe the fresh air and stretch your legs by walking through the Pinewoods woodland area. A walking route takes you from the gardens to the woodland and onto Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens.
If you are feeling sporty then visit the park’s games section. Play disc golf, miniature golf, pitch and putt and table tennis from April to October. The children’s playground, tennis courts and skatepark are open year round. Cool off on hot days by dipping your feet in the summertime paddling pool.
The gardens are easy to reach on foot from the city center. There’s an entrance directly behind the Royal Pump Room Museum. Limited-hour parking is possible on the streets that surround the gardens.
Valley Gardens is open every day throughout the year. Pay for the sporting activities at the games pavilion. Drinks and snacks are available to purchase at the games pavilion and a cafe.
