A spellbinding tapestry of woodlands, rolling pastures and flowering meadows, the Harlow Carr bears a labyrinth of blooming colors that seem to stretch on forever. The garden is nestled on the western fringes of Harrogate and is managed by the Royal Horticultural Society. The garden is a seemingly unending swathe of wilderness brought alive by varicolored blooms, its expanse dotted with wooded trails bordered by vibrant roses, terraces, a lake, an arboretum and a beautiful assemblage of gardens namely the Winter Garden, Foliage Garden and Scented Garden. In addition, the garden hosts an extensive collection of alpine blooms, willows and wildflowers which stick out as jewels embedded on an emerald-hued carpet. Home to the famed Betty's Cafe & Tearoom, this well-designed garden is where one landscape blends into another, to create a space that resembles the English countryside frozen in time. Year-round, the garden hosts a number of workshops, shows and fairs, in order to imbibe and encourage the spirit of gardening and horticulture among its patrons.
The Bowes Museum is a magnificent French chateau, designed by French architect, Jules Pellechat, which was established in 1892 as a purpose-built museum and art gallery. On its three floors, it exhibits a wide and eclectic collection of art and artifacts. In the realm of fine art, there is an enviable collection of European paintings, with an emphasis on French and Spanish artists. There is also a suite of period English rooms replete with well-preserved furnishings and decor. The local history gallery contains many archaeological finds from the surrounding area, while the toy gallery is a hit with children and adults alike. Combine your visit with the occasional exhibitions and educational programs, musicals and theatrical events that are hosted on the grounds.
In the 19th Century, Harrogate was a very grand and fashionable spa town, and people came from all over to try its sulfurous waters. Those days are long gone as the Royal Baths have closed, but the Pump Room Museum still gives visitors a taste of Harrogate's storied past (literally, with the sulfur smell from the springs). It's a fascinating glimpse into history, with special exhibitions throughout the year. Charles Dickens is said to have visited the building back in 1858.
Magnificent yet efficient, Royal Hall is part of Harrogate's well established and known Harrogate International Centre (HIC). With a seating capacity of 1000, the hall hosts conferences, concerts, shows and other entertainment. It is a hot spot of cultural activity. Built in 1903, it was a Kursaal and was converted to a venue later. If you just want to, drop in and see the Royal Hall for its architecture. However, you will need to book the tour in advance.
The Stray is one of Harrogate's gems. This place is an open space of 200 acres (81 hectares) at the south end of the old city. It's an oasis of green that becomes a carpet of flowers in the spring and early summer. That display of color has made the Stray one of Harrogate's major tourist attractions, as people love to walk on the grass and take in the scenery. Locals and visitors alike use the wonderful space for picnics in the summer, and flock back to see the leaves change in autumn.
The grandiose structure of Harrogate Theatre captivates you the moment you set eyes on this majestic structure opened in 1900. The intricate architecture and designs within the theatre are splendid. Located in Harrogate, it attracts a sizable crowd that throng the theater to witness the vast array of plays conducted throughout the year. Stellar names in theater like Charlie Chaplin , Ben Kingsley, Brian Murphy among several others have made their presence felt here. Over the years the theater has survived several crisis and is currently flourishing. The Stall Bar, Box Office and the stairs were renovated to their old splendor. Harrogate Theater is a delight for theater lovers.
In the beautiful Aire valley Skipton's position at the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park has earned it the moniker Gateway to the Dales. It is indeed perfectly located for those seeking to explore the spectacular local countryside. An attractive market town, it secured its place in history as the last Royalist stronghold in the north after the famous Battle of Marston Moor. There's a host of shops, cafes and restaurants to discover but the town's major attraction has to be its medieval castle an imposing structure that has survived the ravages of history to remain remarkably well-preserved. A stroll along the lovely canal is highly recommended.
Officially inaugurated by the Earl of Strathmore on Jan 1st 1994, the Mickleton Village Hall is a beautiful space that serves as a focal point for all community gatherings. Modernized with faultless amenities, it can be hired for business, private and social events.
Located in the village of Melsonby, St James is a lovely Anglican parish church dating from the 13th Century. This shrine was present before the Norman conquest and is mentioned in the Domesday book. Built with sandstone rubble and ashlar, this church contains beautiful lancet windows. Designed by architects Paley and Austin, it consists of a tower with buttresses at the corners and the center. This shrine is listed as Grade II in the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest.