Best Life / Harrogate
Harrogate
Harrogate borough provides the perfect blend of modern and traditional.
Stylish boutiques and health spa's live within quintessential market and cathedral towns, with ample history and heritage sites dotted around the district. Brimham Rocks, Ripley Castle and Mother Shiptons Cave to name but a few.
Harrogate is the hub of the area, offering its residents an outstanding quality of life: excellent high street shops and unique boutiques, superb leisure facilities, including Harrogate Turkish Baths and Health Spa and a vibrant night life, including a variety of well renowned restaurants, Harrogate Theatre and many cosmopolitan pubs and wine bars.
Harrogate has all the facilities you would expect in a large city, yet without the hustle, bustle, noise and pollution of city living.
Incorporated within the borough is Nidderdale. A diverse and dramatic landscape with open moorland and pastoral dales. Together with its historic and cultural sites, and wildlife habitats of international importance these features make up a landscape worthy of designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There are ample opportunities to engage in active pursuits in the AONB, from cycling, rambling and birdwatching, to golf, horseriding and fishing.
One of the areas breathtaking "must see" sites is How Stean Gorge, a magnificent limestone gorge, packed with opportunities for active pursuits. You can try your hand at abseiling or gorge walking in the ravine, which in places can reach up to 80ft deep. Thrill seekers can also visit Lightwater Valley, in Ripon, where attractions include The Ultimate; Europe's longest roller coaster, or the Wave; the biggest Swing Boat in Britain.
Harrogate borough is made up of a number of other market towns, all with their own unique character. Why not investigate Ripon's unique shops and its impressive Cathedral, or visit the regal ruins of the medieval castle overlooking the river Nidd in Knaresborough.
