Hotels in Harrogate

Harrogate: Where Serene Gardens Embrace Rolling Hills and Timeless Charm

Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, Harrogate is a charming spa town renowned for its stunning gardens and elegant architecture. Visitors can wander through the picturesque Valley Gardens, indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Betty's Café Tea Rooms, and explore the vibrant boutiques of the town centre. With its hilly countryside offering breathtaking views and the Harrogate International Centre hosting diverse events, this destination perfectly blends cultural allure with natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a leisurely getaway, Harrogate's unique charm and warm hospitality make it a must-visit gem in the UK. For our best hotel rates in Harrogate and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Harrogate

Some of the best places to stay in Harrogate are Ripon, Wetherby and Knaresborough. Ripon, Wetherby, and Knaresborough are charming destinations near Harrogate, each offering unique attractions. Ripon boasts a historic cathedral and vibrant markets, Wetherby features delightful riverside walks and quaint shops, while Knaresborough enchants with its picturesque castle and stunning views. Accommodations in these towns range from cozy inns to budget-friendly hotels, catering to various preferences. For first-time visitors, Knaresborough is ideal due to its scenic beauty and rich history, making it a memorable starting point for your travels. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Harrogate:

1. RiponOpens in a new window: Ripon is a charming market town that offers a blend of history and outdoor activities, making it a delightful spot for visitors. Key attractions include Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning ruins, and Ripon Cathedral, showcasing exquisite architecture. Families will enjoy Lightwater Valley Theme Park, perfect for a day of fun. Notable hotels in Ripon include Grantley HallOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel ideal for business and luxury travelers, featuring a full spa and pool services. Another option is The Carpenters Arms Opens in a new window, also a 5-star inn that welcomes pets and provides business amenities, including conference spaces. The Old Coach HouseOpens in a new window is a luxurious guesthouse suited for those looking to indulge in a high-end experience.
2. WetherbyOpens in a new window: Wetherby is a picturesque town with a rich history and beautiful outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore Harewood House and Bramham Park, both showcasing stunning architecture and gardens. Hazlewood Castle & SpaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, offers adventure activities and a romantic ambiance, making it perfect for couples. Another excellent choice is The Bridge Hotel and SpaOpens in a new window, which welcomes pets and provides a full spa experience for relaxation. Wood Hall Hotel and SpaOpens in a new window, a boutique hotel, features unique decor and business amenities, catering to both leisure and corporate travelers.
3. KnaresboroughOpens in a new window: Knaresborough is known for its scenic beauty and historical sites, including Knaresborough Castle and Ripley Castle and Gardens. It offers a tranquil atmosphere combined with cultural experiences. For accommodation, Goldsborough HallOpens in a new window is a luxurious country house perfect for discerning travelers, while The General Tarleton InnOpens in a new window also offers a high-end experience. The GraftonOpens in a new window is a guesthouse that caters to business travelers, providing essential services and a comfortable stay.

Things to do in Harrogate for first times

Harrogate is a charming destination that beckons travellers with its picturesque gardens, rolling hills, and serene countryside. Spend three days enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while also indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments and vibrant theatre performances, making it a delightful retreat in the heart of nature. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Harrogate:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Harrogate at Ripley Castle and Gardens, a stunning estate with beautiful grounds that are perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. After exploring the historic castle, make your way to the Mercer Art Gallery, where you can admire a fine collection of British art. Spend your afternoon at Harlow Carr Botanical Gardens, immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the beautifully curated gardens and perhaps enjoying a cup of tea at the café while overlooking the vibrant flora.
• Day 2: Start your day at the RHS Garden Harlow Carr, where you can wander through enchanting landscapes and discover the diverse plant collections. Next, head to Valley Gardens, a stunning parkland featuring beautiful flowerbeds, a tranquil lake, and a children's play area. In the afternoon, visit Log Heights, an adventure park that offers unique tree-top climbing experiences, making for an exciting and active day amidst nature.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Harewood House, an exquisite stately home with impressive art collections and stunning gardens. Following your journey through history, take a scenic trip to Brimham Rocks, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Conclude your day at Knaresborough Castle, a historic site with captivating views over the River Nidd, allowing you to delve into the rich history of this charming town.

4 tips to find a great Harrogate hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Harrogate is between January and March, when hotel prices are significantly lower. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance to secure the best rates, while domestic travellers can find great value by booking at least one month ahead. A stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to fully enjoy the local attractions, which include beautiful gardens and picturesque countryside. Harrogate offers a budget-friendly experience, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Harrogate, Hotels.com is a great resource to explore. To uncover potential discounts, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations close to your travel date. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you seize opportunities for savings on hotel stays.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Harrogate.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Harrogate

Harrogate experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.9°F (3.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.9°F (15.5°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Harrogate are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.