Guide
Things to Do in Harrogate
From beautiful gardens and historic baths to independent streets, open spaces, countryside walks and some of Yorkshire's best days out, discover the best things to do in and around Harrogate.
Near Harrogate
Knaresborough
Market town on a gorge above the River Nidd, four miles east of Harrogate.
Knaresborough is the obvious short trip from Harrogate and the one most worth making. The town sits high above a bend in the River Nidd, with a ruined castle on the cliff, a railway viaduct crossing the gorge and rowing boats on the water below.
There is a Wednesday market in the square, a steep and slightly awkward walk down to the riverside, and Mother Shipton's Cave and its petrifying well on the far bank.
It is a few minutes by train from Harrogate, which makes it easy to do without a car. Half a day is enough; a full one is better if the weather holds.
Good for
Day Trip·Riverside·Historic Town·Families·No Car Needed
Last verified 11/09/2026. Something changed? Let us know
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HHarrogate.co.uk
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William & Victoria
Below-street-level bistro on Cold Bath Road, quietly running for years on classic cooking and a serious wine list.
HHarrogate.co.uk
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Three's A Crowd
Neighbourhood restaurant and bar with a menu built around sharing and a loyal local following.
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Rudding Park
Country house hotel, spa and golf in 300 acres of parkland on the southern edge of Harrogate.