Harrogate, situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, is known for its “thriving streets that buzz with shops and eateries” and was highlighted by The Express.
It’s also been described as the “go-to destination for relaxation and indulgence”.
The publisher shared about its travel guide: “England is packed full of pretty towns that most of us never take a trip to.
@imjanuki obsessed with this little town can’t recommend it enough! by far one of the best places I have visited 💘 #scenic #placestovisit #countryside #travel #explore #england #harrogate #fyp ♬ Sweet Heat Lightning – Gregory Alan Isakov
“Whether they’re tucked away in the Lake District or overlooking the sea, if you’re planning a staycation this autumn, here are 16 beautiful little market towns that you should visit.”
Take a look at the full list of impressive small market towns via The Express’ website.
What did the travel experts say about Harrogate?
The Express wrote: “Harrogate is a spa town in North Yorkshire. It is a tourist destination, and its visitor attractions include its spa waters and Harlow Carr gardens.
“Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Nidderdale AONB are 13 miles away from the town centre.
“From 2013 to 2015, it was voted the ‘happiest place to live in the UK’.
Additionally, Harrogate has been labelled as a “definitive boutique spa town in the heart of North Yorkshire” by Visit North Yorkshire.
It adds: “An eclectic cultural scene of events is interspersed with many popular consumer shows and the spa heritage that can be seen at every turn.
“Possibly the most distinctive feature of the town is its vast open space that surrounds the town centre, known locally as the Stray, at 200 acres this gives a green and spacious feel unique to the town.”
Detailing the history of Harrogate, it explains: “Born through a boom in spa tourism during the Victorian 1800s, Harrogate quickly developed a reputation for luxurious getaways for body and soul.
“The high society of Victorian Britain flocked to the spa town to enjoy the air, the space and the therapeutic spa treatments as well as taking the famous waters.
“This reputation continues to be well deserved. Modern-day Harrogate is the go-to destination for relaxation and indulgence, synonymous with quality shopping and afternoon tea.
“The Spa history continues to shape the town with several superb spas, including the original Turkish Baths in the iconic Royal Baths building in the centre of town.”
A lot of Harrogate’s beauty also comes from its “floral excellence, evident in the magnificent displays across the town and in its well-kept parks and gardens”.
Visit North Yorkshire writes: “The largest of these is the Grade II listed Valley Gardens, which features several distinctive areas and receives 3 million visitors a year.”
The Stray is around 200 acres(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Plus, there is a huge variety of “attractive” townhouse B&Bs and guesthouses, “to suit every taste”.
Aside from the iconic Bettys on Parliament Street, just some of the area’s other recommended cafes include Tilly Peppers, Farmhouse and The Wild Plum.
Some of the most popular coffee shops are Crema Coffee, Lago di Como and Bean & Bud, all highly rated on Google Reviews.
You certainly won’t be stuck for choice when it comes to grabbing a bite to eat in Harrogate.