Winter Fun in Harrogate

Even when the weather outside is wintry, there is plenty to see and do in and around Harrogate.

Visit Harrogate - where better to while away an afternoon than with a warming and relaxing Turkish Bath at the splendidly restored Royal Baths.  The Moorish style design and architecture will give you an experience of the East! Call 01423 556746 for details.  Stay nearby at Parliament Street Serviced Apartments or Cheltenham Mews.

Visit Knaresborough - Mother Shipton is England's most famous prophetess, living 500 years ago and Mother Shipton's Cave is England's oldest visitor attraction dating from 1630.  The Petrifying Well turns everyday objects to stone! www.mothershiptonscave.com.  Stay nearby at the Stables at Spinney Croft.

Nidderdale - the Darley Mill Centre is an Experience Beyond Shopping.  This jewel of industrial heritage has a full restored 27ft water wheel and 3 floors of shopping as well as a Restaurant/Tea Room offering delicious home prepared and locally sourced dishes. www.darleymill.com. Stay nearby at Rayners Barn.

York - The National Railway Museum is a great FREE day out with lots to do for visitors of all ages.  Relive a golden era and witness history brought to life with over 100 locomotives. www.nrm.org.uk. Stay nearby at Ben's Cottage.

Ripon - Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal stay open right through the year and the sculptural beauty of the estate comes into its own in the winter months.  Yorkshire's first World Heritage Site spans 800 years of history and includes the largest abbey ruins in the country, a spectacular Georgian Watergarden and a majestic deer park.  The architect designed visitor centre offers delicious lunches, teas and snacks as well as a spot of retail therapy! www.fountainsabbey.org.uk Stay nearby at College Court.