48 HOURS IN...HARROGATE

Treat yourself to a perfect weekend in this elegant North Yorkshire spa town

- SHARON SWEENEY

WHY GO?

Frequently voted the happiest place to live in the UK, upmarket Victorian Harrogate is a joy to visit. Its spa waters, discovered in the 16th century, have drawn visitors for centuries, bringing wealth and good transport links: a train will take you there from Leeds or York in an hour, or from London in three hours. Today, the spa is still a jewel in Harrogate’s crown but there’s so much more to see and do.

GREEN AND PLEASANT LAND

Banked by 200 acres of greenery known as the Stray, Harrogate has a green and spacious feel, with RHS Harlow Carr on its doorstep and the Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale nearby. In town, the Valley Gardens boast 17 acres of English Heritage Grade II listed grounds: they’re a haven of tranquillity, and the perfect place for a stroll. Admire the colourful formal borders and the elegant sun pavilion and colonnades, and bask in the peace. On Sunday afternoons throughout summer, there’s free music at the bandstand.

DRINKS GALORE

No visit to Harrogate is complete without a stop at Bettys Cafe and Tea Rooms on Parliament Street. Pop in for a cuppa (queues permitting!) or book afternoon tea in the beautiful Imperial Rooms, complete with a pianist.

If you’re in need of something stronger than a brew, make for the Spirit of Harrogate Slingsby gin shop on Montpellier Parade, styled like an old-fashioned apothecary. Sample its award-winning gins for free or try tasting and history experiences, too (£45 for two hours and four drinks).