James Lovegrove adds a new addition to the Sherlock Holmes genera with this Christmas Mystery (Avaliable on Hardback, EReader and Audio format). To quote the author this is a compelling mix of a tragic suicide, sizable legacy, a creature from folklore, a haunted castle and a maiden at the heart of it all. The Murder is committed in a secluded location so there is an aspect of a closed cast of suspects.
In true Arthur Conan Doyle style there is a twist in the tail as well as more than one strand of enquiry bringing it all together. Dr Watson takes his place as the regular sidekick and it is timed to slot into the early days of their partnership with Watson mentioning he has only published 2 of Homes/Watson adventures at this point in the friendship. This is a nice christmas murder mystery in the classic style providing a light an entertaining story for fans of the world famous consulting detective.

We are lucky in Harrogate to have an amazing amatour dramatic offering with our Pheonix players bringing The Wizard of Oz to the Harrogate Theatre stage from the 26th -29th of March 2025. Tickets will be avaliable from
https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/events/the-wizard-of-oz/#book from today in a range of prices. If you have children this all time classic would make a nice tie in with the new Wicked the musical release and showcases the catchy tunes we all know and love. Use the discount code Pheonix to get 10% of during the production.

This is a fun murder romp of the cosy crime variety putting a modern twist on the locked room/closed circle genre - (ie they are stuck in a castle on an island and trapped due to a storm). (Formats avaliable on Audio book, Electronic and paper copy). To set the scene this is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone - where the characters are all getting together at Dunwick Castle for a wedding which is accessed via a single narrow bridge. As they arrive police are dealing with the corpse of a man on the beach and for our plucky cast it all goes downhill from there. Shortly after a 2nd body is found on the beach with a storm close on the heals of the discovery is the storm of the centuary trapping the cast on the island and taking out the power/internet and phones in true spooky castle tradition. I would class this is a similar style to Agatha Raisin by MC Beaton with a warm cosy feel - though it is a 3 ladies detective team.

 For 2024 I am reviewing Christmas Murder mystries (suggestions welcome) starting with new to my TBR (for the non #booktock initiated To Be Read pile) offering of The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallet. I picked it up 2nd hand on Commercial Street at the enchanting old world book shop Books for All (it smells like a proper book shop should).

This book is part of a larger series which I think would have added to my understanding as its not really a stand alone. The writing style is as if its an amatour theatre group are communicating with each other via Wattsap, email, text and group chat - the murder doesn't come out till virtually at the end and it came out the case was being used as a case study for 2 law students of if it should be taken to court or not. In reality this would be a police decision but makes for an interesting moral dilema. All in all a short interesting christmas murder read but do feel reading the rest of the series is key.

 
Harrogate is a haven for craft enthusiasts. The town and its surrounding area are home to several craft fairs throughout the year, offering a diverse range of handmade goods that appeal to collectors and hobbyists alike. These fairs present an excellent opportunity to shop small, support local artisans, and take home one-of-a-kind creations. Expect to find everything from hand-thrown pottery and delicate jewellery to textiles, woodwork, and original artwork on display, all demonstrating high-quality craftsmanship.   Each item has its own story, often with the opportunity to meet the maker and learn about their creative process. For those who appreciate the uniqueness and authenticity of handmade products, these fairs offer an unbeatable shopping experience.
Some of the most popular fairs in the region are listed below. 
 
For those of you who enjoy crafting, one of the highlights of the craft fair calendar in Harrogate is The Knitting and Stitching Show. Taking place at the Harrogate Convention Centre 21 – 24 November 2024.  This is a large show which offers a wide range of high-quality supplies. Vendors come from across the UK to exhibit, and you can expect to find everything from yarns and fabrics to specialised tools.  There are a number of workshops and demonstrations taking place across the four-day show, offering the opportunity to learn new skills or refine existing ones. 
Hugely popular with visitors from all over the UK, this is the highlight of the crafting calendar in the area, hosting a huge range of stands.  You will definitely need to set aside a whole day (or two) for this event, particularly if you are a quilter or fibre artist.  Whether you sew, spin, crochet or knit, this show is one you don’t want to miss. You can find out more, and book your tickets, here:  The Knitting & Stitching Show
The Convention Centre is right opposite The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, making us the ideal place to stay for this awesome show.  The entrance is just a five-minute walk from our door, and we know you won’t be disappointed.  
For those who prefer their crafts ready-made, there are a selection of great events taking place in the area.
Crafts in the Pen – 16 – 17 November 2024 – Skipton Auction Mart, Skipton
This highly popular event features over 230 stalls of handmade crafts, perfect for finding unique gifts.  If you enjoy shopping small and supporting local artisans, then this is the place to visit and you are sure to find the right thing for everyone on your Christmas list, plus a few things you just can’t leave behind. 
Skipton is around a 45-minute drive from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, and the drive is scenic.   Once you have looked around the crafts, you might wish to visit the nearby Farm Shop – you drive past it on the way into the Auction Mart.  Or perhaps you would prefer a visit to the beautiful Bolton Abbey Estate to stretch your legs and admire the stunning scenery, before returning to Harrogate for a meal and then a rest in your comfortable room at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages.   You can find out  more about Crafts in the Pen, and book your tickets, here:  TICKETS | Crafts in the Pen | Skipton
 
Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre Christmas Craft Fair – 30 November 2024 – 50 Bond End, Knaresborough
Henshaws is a local charity running an arts and crafts centre and college for young people with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, including sight loss, supporting them to become the best they can possibly be. Services include a sight loss support service in the North West, a specialist college in Harrogate, and the Arts And Crafts Centre in Knaresborough. 
The craft fair will feature stalls with beautiful handmade gifts from the Artmakers.   Whether you’re after one-of-a-kind decorations or personal gifts, there’s something for everyone.  Festive food and drink will also be available and there are craft sessions for children and a wreath-making workshop for adults costing just £20.  These tend to be very popular though, so booking early is recommended for the workshops.
At The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages, we will happily store your finished wreath in a cool place until you are ready to take it home and hang it in pride of place on your front door. 
Knaresborough is a 20 minute drive from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages.  Both trains and buses run regularly between Harrogate and Knaresborough so you can certainly leave your car with us whilst you explore on public transport if you prefer. 
Find out more about the fabulous Arts and Crafts centre here:  Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre
 
Artisan Market – Sun Colonnade, Harrogate – First three weekends in December.
An Artisan Market is held in the Sun Colonnade in the Valley Gardens during the first three weekends in December.  This is well worth a visit, particularly if you love homemade items crafted locally.  It always attracts a very wide range of artisans and is a very popular market with local people as well as visitors.  Perfect for picking up those stocking fillers for family and friends.  It’s also very conveniently situated, being only a few minutes walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages.  The gardens themselves are beautiful, even in winter, and there is a café where you can get hot drinks and snacks too.  Find out more here:  https://visitharrogate.co.uk/events/little-bird-artisan-market
 
The Great Yorkshire Christmas Fair – Yorkshire Event Centre – 30 November to 3 December 2024.
This fair features over 250 stalls including crafts, gifts and festive food.  There is live entertainment too which adds to the festive atmosphere.  There is usually ample parking at this venue, which is a little out of the town centre on the Wetherby Road.  However, there are buses which go in that direction if you prefer to leave the car in our car park.  Find out more here:  https://eventcentre.co.uk/yec-events/the-great-yorkshire-christmas-fair-2024-2/
Whichever event you choose, you will be supporting independent makers and small businesses,  and shopping sustainably by prioritising quality over mass production. The atmosphere of a craft fair is warm and engaging, making it the perfect relaxing outing where you can browse at leisure, and take home something truly special.  And don’t forget, if you book direct with us, you can choose your room.  We recommend you choose a large room …..  to accommodate all the craft items and gifts you will want to purchase.  Whether you are visiting or exhibiting at one of the events, we are sure you will enjoy your stay with us. 

Harrogate is renowned for its elegance and charm, and this extends to our vibrant bars and restaurants.  Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, dining out in Harrogate is an experience to savour. From cosy tearooms to award-winning fine dining restaurants, the town offers a range of exceptional options to suit all tastes, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. 
With its central location, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages provide a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the culinary delights of Harrogate whether you are looking for afternoon tea, fine dining, or a more relaxed vibe in one of our delightful gastropubs and cafes.  It is well known that to dine well in a location is to dine where the locals dine.  To make your planning easier, we’ve put together a list of the restaurants, pubs and cafes that get the seal of approval from our discerning local residents.  So read on to find the perfect place to eat, drink and socialise in our lovely town, guided by our local knowledge.
 
Afternoon Tea
One of Harrogate’s most famous culinary institutions is Bettys Tea Rooms, a must-visit for those seeking traditional afternoon tea. Established over 100 years ago, Bettys continues to serve impeccable cakes, sandwiches, and its signature Fat Rascals.  The elegant surroundings and excellent service make it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon treat.  If afternoon tea is your thing, then don’t forget to check out our blog on that very subject.  You can find it here:  (Kim to add the link to the tearoom blog here) 
 
Fine Dining
For those looking to indulge in fine dining, Harrogate does not disappoint. The town is home to several acclaimed restaurants offering modern British cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Many chefs in the area are passionate about showcasing the best produce from Yorkshire, whether it’s succulent lamb, game from the Dales, or fresh fish from the coast. Expect carefully crafted menus with dishes that combine traditional flavours with contemporary flair.
 
Orchid Restaurant at The Studley Hotel
Offering a fusion of Far-Eastern flavours in an elegant setting. It’s known for its culinary excellence and has been a staple in Harrogate since 2001. Find out more here:  The Orchid
 
William & Victoria, Cold Bath Road
An independent, family-run restaurant and Harrogate’s first wine bar, established over 40 years ago. It has a cozy, character-filled atmosphere with a more spacious dining area upstairs. They specialise in traditional British food and use high quality local suppliers.  This has long been known as an ideal date night restaurant though they also serve delicious lunches too.  Find out more here:  https://www.williamandvictoria.com/ 
 
Drum and Monkey, 5 Montpellier Gardens
The Drum and Monkey is an independent seafood restaurant located in the heart of Harrogate’s Montpellier Quarter. Known for its intimate and cozy atmosphere, it has built a strong reputation for quality and service over the years and is well worth a visit if you love really fresh seafood.  You can check out the menus here:  https://drumandmonkey.co.uk/
 
Mediterranean Cuisine
Papas Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine, 11A Princes Square
This family-run Mediterranean restaurant prides itself on fresh, daily-prepared dishes. The food is known for being plentiful and sensibly priced. Check them out here:  https://www.papasauthentic.co.uk/
 
Efes Turkish and Mediterranean Bar and Grill, 28 Swan Road
 Known for its melt-in-the-mouth seasoned lamb and delicious sharing platters, this restaurant offers a vibrant and friendly dining experience.  Check out the menu here:  https://efesbarandgrill.co.uk/
 
Indian Cuisine
Jinnah, 34 Cheltenham Parade
If you love really great Indian cuisine then Jinnah is the place to go.  Located a very short walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, this welcoming family-run restaurant has been serving locals and visitors for nearly 20 years. Find out more here:  https://www.jinnahharrogate.co.uk/
 
Gastropubs and Bistros
If you prefer something a little more relaxed, Harrogate has a variety of gastropubs and bistros that offer high-quality food in a laid-back atmosphere. These venues offer hearty British favourites such as steak and ale pie or Sunday roasts, as well as more international fare, from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian fusion.
Some local favourites include:
Starling Independent Bar Café Kitchen, 47 Oxford Street
This relaxed venue is known for its craft beer and specialist coffee.  Starling offers a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu and is hugely popular with locals for brunch, lunch, and dinner.  They specialise in Neapolitan-style pizzas which some locals claim are the best in town.  They also offer Yorkshire poutine as well as range of vegan and gluten-free options.  https://www.murmurationbars.co.uk/
 
Major Tom’s Social, The Ginnel
This laid-back hangout is perfect for enjoying quality food and drink in a retro setting. Major Tom’s is known for its eclectic atmosphere, complete with board games, live music, and art exhibitions.  They serve delicious stone-baked pizzas as well as meat and cheese platters, all accompanied by a wide range of craft beers and real ales.  https://www.majortomssocial.co.uk/
 
Lilypad, 134 Kings Road
A relatively new but extremely popular bar and restaurant offering a fusion of Asian and South American flavours. Lilypad’s unique sharing plates and vibrant cocktails are particularly popular.  This restaurant is just a ten minute walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages too.  You can find out  more here:  https://www.lilypadharrogate.com/
 
Farmhouse, Unit 1, Westgate House, Station Parade
An all-day restaurant serving seasonal dishes from breakfast to dinner. Farmhouse is known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive menu catering to various dietary preferences. This restaurant is very popular for brunch and offers handmade burgers, salads, a range of British classics, and offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.  It is well worth checking them out here:  https://www.farmhouse.biz/
 
Café’s, Coffee and Cakes
The town also boasts a thriving café culture. You’ll find artisan coffee houses serving expertly brewed coffee alongside an array of pastries and light lunches. Perfect for a casual catch-up or a break during a day of exploring the local shops and attractions, Harrogate’s cafés offer a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.  We recommend:
Caffé Marconi, Princes Square
Centrally located and serving excellent coffee, delicious cakes, pizza, and other hot foods, this is a popular café with locals with a friendly, buzzing atmosphere.  https://www.caffemarconi.co.uk/menu/
 
Bean & Bud, 14 Commercial Street
A cozy, independent coffee shop known for its excellent coffee and friendly atmosphere. They offer a variety of cakes and pastries, with options for different dietary needs.
 
Hoxton North, 1A Royal Parade
This café brings a touch of the big city to Harrogate with its stylish interior and focus on quality. It’s a great spot for a relaxing coffee break or a light lunch.
 
Baltzersen’s, 22 Oxford Street
Scandinavian-Inspired café whose unique menu focuses on quality and sustainability. The café is known for its welcoming vibe and delicious baked goods with their Cinnamon Rolls being a particularly popular option.  https://www.baltzersens.co.uk/
 
No35 Harrogate, 35 Cheltenham Crescent
This small, independently owned coffee shop that prides itself on serving ethically sourced coffee and freshly made bagels. It’s a favourite among locals for its quality and cosy atmosphere. Better still, it’s a short walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages.
Dining out in Harrogate is not just about the food; it’s about enjoying a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere that reflects the town’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. From fine dining to casual bites, there is something for every palate in this picturesque corner of North Yorkshire. 
The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages make a comfortable base from which to explore all the culinary delights that Harrogate has to offer.  Why not browse the options, pick your favourites, and then book direct with us to start your culinary exploration.  Don’t forget, if you book direct, you can choose your room (subject to availability).  Check out our website (LINK TO THE BEDROOMS PAGE HERE) to find your perfect room.  We look forward to hearing from you soon. 
 
 
 

Autumn Walks in the Harrogate Area
As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscape, there’s no better time to explore the scenic beauty of Harrogate and the Yorkshire Dales.   With its rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and charming villages, this region offers a variety of walks to suit everyone. Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, Harrogate has something to offer. Here's a guide to some of the best autumn walks and suggestions for making the most of your stay in this idyllic part of England.
 
Easy Walk: The Valley Gardens
For those looking for an easy and accessible walk, the Valley Gardens in Harrogate is the perfect choice. This beautiful parkland is ideal for a leisurely stroll, offering well-maintained paths and stunning autumn foliage.
Highlights:
Accessibility: The paths are smooth and suitable for wheelchairs and prams, making it an excellent option for those with mobility issues.
Sights: Enjoy the vibrant colours of the seasonal flowers and trees, the tranquil water features, and the charming Sun Colonnade is a must-see. 
Facilities: The gardens are equipped with ample seating, there is a café which serves a range of drinks and snacks and toilet facilities are also available. 
If you are visiting with small children, there are ample play areas and lots of room for kids to run off some energy, whilst the Crazy Golf may appeal to older children as well as young-at-heart adults.
Spend a relaxed afternoon wandering through this tranquil setting, or, for a more energetic walk, extend the walk up the hill and through the pine woods.
 
Medium Walk: Nidd Gorge
For those seeking a moderately challenging walk, the Nidd Gorge offers a delightful mix of woodland trails and riverside paths. The route starts at Conyngham Hall in Knaresborough, which is a short drive from Harrogate.  There is ample parking (which is Pay and Display) alongside the river, and the trails along the river and Nidd Gorge are well-marked. 
The walk offers stunning views of the gorge, which is particularly beautiful during the autumn and there is an abundance of wildlife including birds, squirrels, rabbits and deer.
For those with an interest in history and architecture, the walk passes old mills and the remnants of ancient woodland.
This walk is approximately 5 miles long and provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.
 
Longer Walk 1: Harrogate to Ripley Castle
For a longer walk, taking the route from Harrogate to Ripley Castle via The Greenway is a fantastic option.  The route begins in Harrogate Town Centre, at the Dragon Road car park which is behind Asda.  You will follow the path which runs parallel to the Harrogate railway line before crossing over the railway and continuing on the Greenway.  The path takes you around the outskirts of the town, then heads across the Nidd Viaduct.  On arriving at Ripley, we highly recommend trying the Ripley Icecream, having a wander around the beautiful village and possibly taking a walk in the grounds of the house, or visiting the stunning church if you have time. 
This is an out and back route so once you have seen all that Ripley has to offer, you return the way that you came. 
This walk is a 10 mile round trip, providing a good workout and plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.  The route is well-marked and relatively flat, making it manageable for the majority of walkers. 
 
Longer Walk 2:  Pinewoods to RHS Garden Harlow Carr
This walk from The Camberley to RHS Garden Harlow Carr is ideal for those who want a varied landscape walk.  From The Camberley, walk down the Kings Road toward Stuzzi, keeping the Conference Centre on your right.  At the traffic lights, note the beautiful Royal Hall.  Cross the road toward the Crescent Gardens and walk past the Royal Baths Building (on your left) and the Crescent Gardens on the right.  Follow the road, which curves around toward the Valley Gardens.  At the Zebra crossing, cross into the gardens themselves and follow the path toward the café.  Bear right onto the path that runs past the Japanese Garden and keeping the golf green on your left and the trees to your right, follow the path up the (rather steep) hill and into the woods. 
Cross the road at the top of the woods and take the metalled road through the woods at the other side, you can take a right turn through the woods to a charming green space and a path leading down to the Harlow Carr Gardens.  Most of this route is suitable for prams and wheelchairs but the green section is not.  For pram and wheelchair access, when you leave the pine woods, do not take the metalled road but instead do not cross the road but walk to the right on the footpath before crossing the road and taking the bark-chipping pathway through the woods a little further down.  This pathway joins the Harlow Carr path below the green, avoiding the need to traverse the green, which can be muddy in autumn. 
The pathway down to Harlow Carr has a stunning, long-range view across the hills and plenty of seats to allow you to rest and enjoy the view. 
Once you get to the road at the end of this pathway, turn left for Harlow Carr.  The garden entrance is on your right-hand side, with the Bettys Tearoom, a lovely gift shop, and a garden centre. 
You can make this a circular route by walking past Harlow Carr, turning left at the traffic lights, and walking into town.  Just follow the road straight down until you get to The Stray, a large green space in the centre of Harrogate.  Walk down Beech Grove, admiring the fabulous houses to your left, and then turn left at the traffic lights and walk down toward Bettys, before following the path down the hill.  Turn right at the Royal Hall Traffic lights and walk back to The Camberley. 
Alternatively, you can make this an out-and-back route by retracing your steps through the woods and gardens.  The distance is slightly shorter if you go out and back. 
 
 This 8-10 mile (depending on which route you choose to on the return trip) offers a mix of open parkland, dense woods, and beautifully curated gardens.  RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a stunning destination, especially in autumn when the gardens are ablaze with colour.
 
These are just four of the stunning walks that visitors to Harrogate can enjoy.  There are numerous walks in the wider area, with Pateley Bridge, Ripon, Knaresborough and Masham areas all very much worth exploring.  It is well worth planning to stay for a few days, so that you can fully appreciate the beauty and charm of the area.   The benefits of being out in nature are well documented and Harrogate provides a very convenient base from which to explore. 
Take a well-earned break at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages, and explore all that Harrogate has to offer.  Check out some of our other blogs for more ideas to make your stay special.  And remember, you will get a better deal if you book directly with us, because you can choose the room that you would prefer (subject to availability).  To book your room, call:  07792 505910

After a bustling six weeks of looking after the kids or grandkids during the summer holidays, it’s time for some well-deserved relaxation. If you're a gardening enthusiast or simply in need of a peaceful escape, Harrogate offers the perfect retreat. Renowned for its charming flower shows and scenic beauty, this spa town promises both tranquillity and inspiration.  With plenty to do in the Harrogate area, it’s the perfect base for your relaxing long weekend.  And where better to stay than The Camberley, The Lodge or, for those who prefer self-catering, one of our beautiful Camberley Cottages.  We are centrally located and only a few minutes’ walk from a wide range of restaurants and bars. 
 
Harrogate Flower Shows are a gardeners dream.
Twice a year, Harrogate transforms into a floral wonderland with its celebrated flower shows, attracting visitors from all over the UK.  The Spring Show takes place in April at the Great Yorkshire Showground, whilst the Autumn Show takes place 13 – 15 September.  Perfectly timed following the busy summer holiday period and just prior to bulb-planting season. 
The autumn show takes place at the picturesque Newby Hall & Gardens.  Expect to see the rich hues of dahlias, asters, and other late-blooming perennials. The crisp autumn air, breathtaking displays, and of course the numerous stalls selling plants and gardening items, make it a must-visit event.  You can also visit the contemporary sculpture trail and parts of the stunning house will be open to visitors during the show.  You can book your tickets here:  https://www.newbyhall.com/event/harrogate-autumn-flower-show-13th-15th-september-2024/
 
Floral Town
Harrogate itself is a floral town with many stunning display beds dotted around the town.  The Stray, 200 acres of delightful green space, criss-crossed with footpaths, is at the very centre of the town.  As dusk falls, the trees around the Stray are lit up with fairy lights in a magical display. 
Just a ten minute walk from The Camberley, Lodge and Cottages, is the Valley Gardens.  This serene park in the heart of Harrogate offers a peaceful retreat with its beautiful collection of mature trees, colourful flower borders, and a calming mineral spring.  Don’t miss the beautiful Sun Colonnade, which is on your right as you enter the gates to the gardens and head up the slight incline toward the tearooms where you can stop for a cup of tea and a sticky bun.
For those who would like a longer leg-stretch, head up the hill past the tennis courts and you will enter the pine woods and will be able to walk to RHS Harlow Carr which boasts themed gardens, a wildflower meadow and a well-stocked garden centre and gift shop.  There is also a branch of Betty’s Tea Rooms where you can enjoy tea and cake, afternoon tea, or perhaps one of Betty’s famous Fat Rascals – a scone/bun mash-up that is as delicious as it is famous.
If you prefer to drive to the RHS Harlow Carr, there is ample parking and the journey will take around 10 minutes from The Camberley, Lodge and Cottages. 
 
Antiques, Collectibles and History
Harrogate is also home to a number of fabulous Antique Shops, some of which stock unique garden ornaments, vintage planters, and quirky tools to enhance your green space.  Check out 27 West Park, which is a huge store that stocks items from a range of eras, whilst Harrogate Antiques Centre is located in the beautiful and atmospheric Montpellier Quarter – take a right after the Slingsby Gin store on Montpellier Hill. 
If you would like to learn more about the fascinating history of the area, check out the Royal Pump Room Museum to delve into the town’s rich history.
 
Crafts
If you are a keen knitter, spinner or crocheter, you won’t want to miss Yarndale on 28 and 29 September.  This huge wool show takes place in nearby Skipton, at the Auction Mart, and whilst its around 45 minutes drive, it is well worth it as it is one of the biggest shows in the area.  Whether you are looking to learn a new craft, find just the right yarn for the garment you want to create, get a spinning wheel or buy fleece, this is the place to do it.  It is a cornucopia of fabulous woolly goodness with a dizzying array of colours and styles of yarn and fibre from all over the UK.  It’s definitely not one to miss.  You can book your tickets here:  https://yarndale.co.uk/
If you want to have a fully relaxed weekend and don’t fancy Yarndale, why not check out our lovely local yarn store, Yarn Etc, on Knaresborough Road.  They stock the most stunning range of wools and patterns so you are sure to find something you love.
For those who love to sew, we haven’t left you out either.  Our local Fabric Store, Fine Fabrics, will be holding its quarterly Pop-up Fabric store on 7 September at Oatlands Community Centre.   You can find out more about Fine Fabrics, and their pop-up shop, here:  https://www.finefabricsofharrogate.co.uk/
 
Take a well-earned break at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages, and see what Harrogate has to offer.  As you can see, there is lots to do.  And remember, you will get a better deal if you book directly with us, because you can choose the room that you would prefer (subject to availability).  To book your room, call:  07792 505910

 
A Passion for Coffee and a Commitment to Sustainability: Volcano Coffee Works
 
At The Camberley and Camberley Cottages, we love our coffee, and we know that you do too.  There is nothing better than a great cup of coffee to start your day whether you will be spending it shopping, sightseeing or working.  For many, that first cup of coffee is the best one of the day.  So we like to ensure that it’s absolutely first rate.  We are proud to serve Volcano Coffee Works, a brand that is not only delicious, but has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Volcano Coffee Works started from humble beginnings;  just founder Kurt Stewart and a vintage Italian Piaggio Ape coffee cart on the footpath off Rosendale Road in West Dulwich. A Kiwi by birth and a seasoned chef, Kurt’s passion was, and still is, to introduce people to better coffee. His Full Steam Espresso quickly gained a following, leading to the establishment of a roastery and a café. The company now consists of a team of 30, and Kurt still roasts the first batch of the day himself, ensuring that the quality and passion that started Volcano Coffee Works continue to infuse every cup.
Innovative and Ethical Coffee Practices
Volcano Coffee Works purchases the best beans rather than the cheapest, pays farmers above Fairtrade prices, and roasts the beans in small batches. It was a pioneer in putting speciality coffee into coffee pods and was among the first coffee companies to become a B Corp, a testament to its commitment to using business as a force for good for both people and the planet.
Their dedication to paying above Fairtrade prices guarantees that farmers receive a fair income, which helps improve their quality of life and promotes sustainable farming practices. This ethical approach to sourcing is reflected in the rich, flavourful coffee that our guests enjoy every day.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
At The Camberley, we are dedicated to sustainability, and Volcano Coffee Works aligns perfectly with our values. They have been carbon neutral since 2022.  They reduce their carbon footprint and offset their emissions by re-investing in the regions from which their coffee originates. Their packaging is exceptionally eco-friendly.  All their coffee bags are made from 50% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable.  Their coffee pods are fully compostable, too, so for every coffee we make in the guest house, we know we are contributing to a sustainable future, one cup at a time. 
The Sombra Project
We are particularly impressed by their Sombra Project, a pioneering agroforestry project in Brazil established in partnership with Fazenda Mio. This project focuses on sustainable coffee farming practices that enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and support the livelihoods of coffee farmers. It not only ensures high-quality coffee but also contributes to the well-being of farming communities and the environment.
The Coffee
Kurt Stewart’s culinary background has given Volcano Coffee Works a unique edge in the coffee world. His fascination with the depth of coffee flavours and his expertise in blending and layering has resulted in a range of coffees that are both complex and accessible. From the renowned Mount Blend to their decaf options, each cup is designed to make you stop and savour the moment. The brand’s focus on making speciality coffee enjoyable and approachable aligns with our mission to provide memorable experiences for our guests.
We are proud to partner with Volcano Coffee Works, not just because of their exceptional coffee, but also because of their commitment to making a positive impact on the world. By serving their coffee, we support sustainable and ethical practices, contribute to environmental conservation, and provide our guests with a unique and memorable coffee experience.  We invite our guests to savour the flavours of their coffee, knowing that every sip supports a better world. 
To find out more about Volcano Coffee Works, please click here.
To book accommodation, to include truly excellent coffee each morning whether you stay in the Guest House or the Cottages, please go here.