Summer hols in Harrogate

Summer hols in Harrogate

by Kayti Mewis (Harrogate Mumbler)

There is so much going on over the summer for families spending time in Harrogate you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whatever the weather, Harrogate has it covered!

For those sunny days the beautiful Valley Gardens is a great outdoor space ideal for family picnics. It has an amazing children’s play area, including a paddling pool that’s open all summer, a skate park and crazy golf course. Check out the Summer Band concerts held every Sunday from 2pm-4pm, on throughout the whole of June and July.

A great choice for all the family is a trip to RHS Garden Harlow Carr. It covers over 68 acres, with a wide variety of growing landscapes and plenty of play areas for children. On throughout the summer (21 July – 2 Sept) is the Jurassic Discovery. Families can embark on a Jurassic journey around the garden on a daily basis. For the budding palaeontologists there’s the chance to dress up as explorers and take part in a fossil dig! With Betty’s Café, Tea Room and shop all on site you’re spoilt for choice, whether it’s a full sit down meal, a light lunch or a sweet snack.

A big hit with Harrogate Mumbler is a day out to Birchfield Ice Cream Farm. They have some great outdoor play areas with plenty of picnic spots where you can enjoy the stunning views over Nidderdale – an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There’s PYO strawberries and the Maize Maze to enjoy over the summer. Of course, no trip here is complete without trying their luxury ice cream.

Harrogate is pretty landlocked, taking over an hour to get to the coast. But fear not – a short trip to Henshaws Arts and Crafts centre in Knaresborough will get you your beach fix. The Urban Beach Opening Party is being held from 1pm on Sunday 6 August, and the beach will be open until 27 August. It’s a great day out with lots going on and all for free. Knaresborough also hold the annual FEVA (Festival of Entertainment and Visual Art) festival from 10-19 August. Our top pick would have to be the picnic in the park on Saturday 18 August. Whilst you’re in Knaresborough check out England’s oldest visitor attraction – Mother Shipton’s.

If the weather isn’t on your side, head over to Goose. An innovative play space that focuses on exploratory and imaginative play, Goose’s reading pods, big blue blocks and slides are all a big hit with kids. The Goose dining room is located in the middle of all the play areas, so your little ones are never out of sight. The food here is delicious, with a huge selection of yummy cakes. If you find yourself here on a rainy day, check out Everyman Cinema too.

Our final top tip from Harrogate Mumbler has to be the Press Family Sunday held at York Racecourse on Sunday 19 September. Under 18s go free, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained – rumour has it Chase from Paw Patrol will be there this year!