Occupying a prime spot at the very heart of North Yorkshire, Harrogate bills itself as one
of the UK's finest districts for historic, cultural and natural treasures. And little wonder,
when the area is simply bursting with important historic houses, ancient castles, inspiring
abbeys, quaint villages and uniquely English countryside at its finest.
The city has a deserved reputation as one of the best locations for conferences and exhibitions
in the country, and it is this that forms the basis of the region's economy.
The Harrogate International Centre is the third largest fully integrated conference and exhibition centre in the UK, and one of the
largest in Europe, pumping over £150 million to the local economy annually, and attracts more than
350,000 business visitors every year. Sport is a large part of local life with Harrogate Town AFC its main team, and cricket is also a big summer season crowd pleaser with matches played at the home ground of Harrogate Cricket Club.
A scattering of museums and exhibitions offer insights into the fascinating history of the
district and its surrounding areas, which today are among the most beautiful settings
in the UK. For those who want a little more activity on their holiday, there's plenty of rugby and
cricket on offer, as well as rock climbing, which is particularly popular. The indoor climbing centre
at Harrogate Climbing Centre is ideal for beginners, while outdoors head to Almscliffe Crag and
Brimham Rocks for more of a challenge!