Area Guide: Living in Harrogate
Harrogate’s charming town centre is home to winding lanes of boutique shops and quaint tea rooms, nestled alongside cobbled residential streets. Offering a quieter lifestyle to neighbouring York or Leeds, Harrogate still has plenty of entertainment options, and a vibrant cultural scene. Surrounded by the stunning countryside of the Yorkshire Dales, it’s also the perfect settling spot for wildlife and nature lovers.
What makes Harrogate such a great place to live? Read on to find out or jump straight in and start browsing our Harrogate properties below.
Why live in Harrogate?
1. The architecture
Harrogate is home to a vast mix of buildings and architectural styles, from attractive Victorian terraces, right through to Georgian mansions, meaning there is something to suit every price range. Surrounding towns and villages also offer an alternative to the town centre, with pretty market towns like Knaresborough and Boroughbridge growing in popularity for home-makers.
2. Transport links
Harrogate has a range of good transport options, including great links to Leeds and York. There are also a few good bus options for these routes, or the A1M is just 15 miles away by car offering links to the rest of the country.
3. Local amenities
Harrogate is known for its huge selection of independent and upmarket shops, including a vast array of antiques stores, arts and crafts, or jewellery. Harrogate also benefits from many well-known high streets brands, as well as two cinemas to choose from.
4. Food, drink, and culture
Harrogate is home to a good range of restaurants, tea houses and cosy pubs. The famous Bettys tea room draws in tourists from far and wide, though there are many other great food options for those who don’t manage to beat the inevitable queues into Bettys. Harrogate is also a spa town, offering residents a choice of various luxury spas in the area.
5. Green spaces
The well-known Valley Gardens, Stray Park, and RHS Harlow Carr Gardens are some of the better-known green areas in Harrogate, all perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor pursuits.
6. Sport and fitness
Harrogate has plenty of gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs, but perhaps more impressive are the abundance of outdoor activities available due to the town's proximity to the Yorkshire Dales. If you like hiking, cycling or horseback riding, Harrogate might be the place for you!
7. Schools and education
Those looking for reputable schools to settle down near will not be disappointed with Harrogate’s choice of private and state schools. With over 60 to choose from in the area, there’s plenty of choice for families looking to move here.
8. Hospitals and healthcare
The Harrogate District Hospital offers a variety of medical services, as well as many smaller institutions in neighbouring towns.
Sold on Harrogate? Get in touch today and see how our expert Harrogate estate agents can help with your next move.
