7 reasons to visit Harrogate, North Yorkshire, UK

Often called “The Jewel of the North”, Harrogate attracts visitors for its urban charms, stunning gardens and its position as a Gateway to the Dales. It is close to Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as well as the UNESCO world heritage site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. Within easy travelling distance of Harrogate are castles, stately homes, abbeys,  cathedrals and medieval market towns.

The Spa

It was something in the water – some hoped for cures for epilepsy and scurvy – that first enabled Harrogate, with its 85 wells and springs, to boom. The opening of the Royal Baths in 1897 confirmed its status as one of the world’s premier hydrotherapy centres. Visitors of note included…