Things to do in Harrogate

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Harrogate Travel Guide

Mercer Art Gallery which includes a park, heritage elements and wildflowers

Harrogate Attractions

Are you a fan of shopping or delicious food? Or perhaps you just prefer to get acquainted with a new place like a bona fide local. While vacationing in Harrogate, it doesn't really matter what your interests are — this significant metropolis has all the experiences and attractions you could ever need.

Discover what makes Harrogate tick with the very best tours & day trips. Scroll through our {28 fun activities in Harrogate fun activities in Harrogate}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Harrogate must see attractions

1. Harrogate Convention Centre

Harrogate Convention Centre is a multipurpose complex containing several entertainment venues. With around 2,000 seats, the main auditorium is famous for hosting the 1982 Eurovision Song Contest. Check out the varied program and choose from the many shows across the center’s eight halls.

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2. Ripley Castle and Gardens

Ripley Castle and Gardens is a 14th-century lakeside estate that includes scenic grounds and a resplendent building. Tours of the mansion and the surrounding gardens trace the history of generations of the affluent Ingilby family. Bring the whole family to learn about the estate’s relation to the Gunpowder Plot and the British monarchy.

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3. Harrogate Theatre

Harrogate Theatre has an eclectic program that includes dance, music, comedy and plays. The theater makes use of its own auditorium as well as the majestic Royal Hall to produce shows for all the family. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at the festivals held in this lively complex.

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Harrogate Theatre showing interior views, heritage elements and cafe scenes

4. Royal Hall

Dating back to the turn of the 20th century, the Royal Hall is one of Harrogate’s most iconic theaters. The auditorium seats over 900 people and puts on a variety of entertainment. Admire the regal ballroom with its gold-leaf balconies, dark wood features and a large multipurpose stage.

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5. Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens

Explore serene surroundings on a visit to Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens (aka RHS Garden Harlow Carr). Set at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, this 68 acre (27.5 hectare) garden showcases a diverse collection of flourishing landscapes.

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Recommended things to do in Harrogate

Number of things to do	28
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Roundabout in Roundhay Park: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9
Top 5 things to do	Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket Royal Horticultural Society: Harlow Carr Garden Ticket All Creatures Great and Small Tour from York Yorkshire Dales Self Guided Driving Tour
Under $25	RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket Royal Horticultural Society: Harlow Carr Garden Ticket Yorkshire Dales Self Guided Driving Tour Leeds: Daily Guided City Center Walking Tour (10:30am) Nidderdale Driving Self-Guided Tour with an APP
With kids	Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire RHS Garden Harlow Carr Entry Ticket Royal Horticultural Society: Harlow Carr Garden Ticket All Creatures Great and Small Tour from York 1 Hour Private Otley Ghost Tour

What to do in Harrogate

Free Things to Do in Harrogate

There's no need to endlessly reach for your wallet in Harrogate. The following won't cost a cent.

Montpellier Quarter - This lively spot is a favorite of both locals and tourists.

Harrogate Ringway - Take a break from the big city and get back to Mother Nature at this breathtaking landscape.

Valley Gardens - No matter if you can tell your daffodils from daisies, you're sure to find beauty in this marvelous display.

Things to Do in Harrogate with Kids

There are lots of sensational experiences in Harrogate that the whole gang will love. These are some of the best family friendly experiences around.

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Harrogate? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Harrogate

Harrogate Convention Centre

You’re spoilt for choice for majestic auditoriums in this eclectic complex, where you can see comedy gigs, musical recitals and plays.

Beautiful Victorian Turkish Baths in Harrogate, the only fully restored Victorian Turkish Baths in the country. The ornate tiling, islami arches, terrazzo floors all add to the relaxing experience.

Turkish Baths and Health Spa

5/5(3 reviews)

Find out about the history of Harrogate when you spend time at Turkish Baths and Health Spa. Make time to visit the area's spas, or simply enjoy its lively bars.

Ripley Castle and Gardens

The Ingilby family lived in this mansion for 700 years, amid tales of treason, executions and ghosts. Tour the lavish estate with a docent for the full story.

Harrogate Theatre

5/5(1 review)

Within this rounded redbrick building lie Harrogate’s great range of theatrical delights, from fun children’s shows to upscale operatic performances.

Climbing around these is so much fun!
#troveon

Brimham Rocks

5/5(1 review)

Explore the great outdoors at Brimham Rocks, a lovely green space in Harrogate. Check out the spas and charming coffeehouses in this walkable area.

Royal Hall

Built to attract and entertain the affluent visitors to Harrogate spa town, this Edwardian theater is known for its decadent décor and diverse lineup.

Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens

From herbaceous borders and streams, to wildflower meadows and woodland, this garden mirrors the spectacular natural countryside of North Yorkshire.

Valley Gardens

5/5(2 reviews)

Whether for a summer picnic, a winter stroll or year-round sports and beautiful natural scenery, this vast public park is the perfect spot for outdoor fun.

Mercer Art Gallery

Revolving exhibits and extensive permanent collections make this museum Harrogate’s center for fine art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Harrogate

Harrogate City Centre

Art galleries, boutiques, cafés and pubs occupy regal 19th-century buildings in the heart of one of England’s prettiest spa towns.

See our Where To Stay guide

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Harrogate

Knaresborough

York

Ripon

Skipton

Wetherby

Otley

Leyburn

Ripley

Frequently asked questions

Is Harrogate worth visiting?

Renowned for its walking trails and nature, discovering cool things to do in Harrogate is easy. Make sure to add Harrogate Theatre to your trip itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Harrogate?

Begin your day with a visit to Knaresborough Castle and Mother Shipton's Cave. Then, check out different parts of Harrogate for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Harrogate?

Don't leave without checking out Harrogate Theatre, ranked the top tourist attraction in Harrogate.

Is three days enough to stay in Harrogate?

Three days in Harrogate is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many travelers spend two days on average. Harrogate Theatre, Royal Hall and Knaresborough Castle are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as York.

Is Harrogate a walkable city?

Some top attractions in Harrogate, like Harrogate Theatre and Royal Hall, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 0.1 miles from central Harrogate is Harrogate City Centre and Starbeck is 2 miles away.

What are some activities to do in Harrogate with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Harrogate with kids.

What to do in Harrogate for adults?

Montpellier Quarter and Turkish Baths and Health Spa are just a few of the things to do in Harrogate. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Harrogate?

From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Harrogate. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Valley Gardens is a must for anyone wishing to save on their traveling adventures.

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