Happy days in HARROGATE

The elegant North Yorkshire spa town is perfect for a weekend break

- SHARON SWEENEY

Frequently voted the happiest place to live in the UK – upmarket, Victorian Harrogate is packed with things to do and see. Banked by 200 acres of greenery, known as the Stray (pictured above), it has a green and spacious feel, with RHS Harlow Carr on its doorstep and the Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale nearby. Its spa waters, discovered in the 16th century, have drawn visitors for centuries, bringing wealth and good transport links. A train will take you there from Leeds or York in under an hour, or from London in three hours. Today, the spa is still a jewel in Harrogate’s crown but there’s so much more to see and do.

Montpellier Quarter

At the heart of the town, there’s grand architecture, independent shops and eateries, the Royal Pump Room Museum and the Valley Gardens.