Where Should You Go For a Christmas Winter Break?

Harrogate, a historic spa town in North Yorkshire, is the perfect spot for a festive weekend away. It offers the buzz of a thriving town with easy access to the countryside and larger cities nearby. 

From spectacular winter light shows to cosy pubs and Christmas markets, Harrogate is great for the family or a romantic break for two. With so much to do, we’ve put together our top recommendations for a trip to Harrogate and the surrounding areas. 

Your Weekend Away in Harrogate

1. Choose Your Accommodation

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a perfect place to stay in Harrogate. We have plenty of characterful and historic inns, spacious townhouses and convenient hotels located in the town centre. 

If you’re an Agatha Christie fan, you might enjoy a stay at The Old Swan Hotel. It’s where the renowned crime writer was famously found relaxing after an 11-day disappearance that sparked a nationwide manhunt.

2. Relax in the Turkish Baths 

The Turkish Bath is a fully restored Victorian Moorish-style bathhouse located in the heart of the town. Whether visiting with a friend or a partner, all guests are encouraged to follow the traditional heat, cool and cleanse tradition or relax completely with an indulgent spa treatment. 

Enjoy morning, afternoon or night - but for total bliss, we suggest starting your day off right with an early steam and soak. 

3. Lunch at Betty’s Tea Rooms

No visit to Harrogate is complete without an afternoon tea at Betty’s! Experience Yorkshire at its finest in the famous tea rooms located just near Harrogate’s war memorial. 

Alternatively, walk through Valley Gardens to Harlow Carr, where you’ll find a second Betty’s Tea Room overlooking the beautiful RHS gardens. 

4. See Stockeld Park’s Winter Illuminations

As the early winter night rolls in, why not head to our Winter Illuminations to get into the festive spirit? We transform our ancient woodland, the Enchanted Forest, with thousands of sparkling lights, animated installations and magical visual effects to create the most spectacular winter lights show. 

Just outside the forest, you can explore the Snowflake Maze, with over two miles of twists and turns that’ll keep you guessing at every corner.

5. Go Ice Skating 

Ice skating is one of the most nostalgic winter traditions, and fortunately, there are plenty of rinks to choose from - including Stockeld Park, which is open daily until 8:30pm. 

Our rink is set against the stunning backdrop of the park and is covered, so the weather won’t catch you out.

6. Spend the Night Out in Town

After a few hours at Stockeld Park or exploring a local Christmas market, end your day with a delicious meal at one of Harrogate’s many restaurants. For a nighttime tipple, you’re in luck - there are plenty of bars open late to enjoy.

Book Your Winter Illuminations & Ice Skating Tickets Today!

 As you plan your trip to Harrogate, be sure to book your Stockeld Park tickets early to secure your perfect Christmas weekend.