If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway this winter, Harrogate offers the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and entertainment. Whether you're looking to recover from the stress of a busy Christmas season or looking to start your new year resolution to take more frequent short breaks, Harrogate is the perfect location.  With lots to do right on your doorstep and centrally located for York, Leeds and the Yorkshire Dales, you are sure to enjoy your stay.  Particularly if you choose The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages.  Whichever you choose, you will be just moments from entertainment and great shopping.  Harrogate also has a fabulous choice of dining options.  Check out our post about Eating Like A Local if you aren’t sure where to try next.  You won’t be disappointed.     

There are some brilliant events coming up in Harrogate from January to March 2025.  Check out some of them right here and plan your short break today.    

COMEDY
Chris McCausland: Yonks! – Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street, Harrogate
Chris brings his unique perspective on life to Harrogate Theatre on 25 January 2025.  Chris is a regular panelist on the satirical news show, Have I Got News for YOU and has appeared on BBC’s Live at the Apollo and recently competed on Strictly Come Dancing.  You can purchase tickets here:  Chris McCausland- Yonks! | Harrogate Theatre
 
Miles Jupp – Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street, Harrogate – 30 January 2025
Receiving rave reviews, Miles latest show sees him discussing his experiences following his diagnosis with a brain tumour and its subsequent removal.  The experience has left him with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share with the room. So that’s exactly what he’s doing in his new show On I Bang – a tale about surprise, fear, luck, love and qualified medical practitioners.  You can book your seats here: Miles Jupp - On I Bang | Harrogate Theatre
 
Really Funny Comedy Club
Local bar, Roosters Taproom, based on Hornbeam Park, host regular monthly comedy events.  They have a range of comedians on the bill and you can book your tickets here:  Really Funny Comedy – RoostersBrewingCo
 
MUSIC
If you are a music lover, you will be spoilt for choice, whether you prefer rock n roll or something a little heavier.  Check out these great events.
 
The Shape of You – Harrogate Theatre – 31 January 2025
Experience the sensational live production, ‘Shape of You’, showcasing the phenomenal music of the world-renowned singer-songwriter, Ed Sheeran.  This show promises an electrifying journey through Sheeran’s iconic repertoire, performed live to mesmerize audiences.  You can book tickets here: The Shape of You | Harrogate Theatre
 
Craig David – First Direct Arena, Leeds – 2 February 2025
Craig David is one of the UK’s most loved artists, His authentically British sound has made waves across the globe, making him the voice of one of the most pivotal eras in UK music, and in turn, making him one of the most successful artists in UK chart history.  He will be touring with special guest Lemar and you can get your tickets here:  Craig David | first direct arena
 
Classic Rock Show – Royal Hall, Harrogate – 7 February 2025
Always a really popular event, the Classic Rock show returns to Harrogate in 2025.  Featuring the music of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, AC/DC, The Beatles, Dire Straits, Meat Loaf, ZZ Top, Eric Clapton, Aerosmith, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Who, Boston, Toto, Van Halen, Fleetwood Mac and more, this is an amazing opportunity for rock fans, young and old, to celebrate three decades of the world’s greatest classic rock music with a stunning multi-million dollar sound and light show to match.  Taking place on 7 February, you can get your tickets here.  Classic Rock Show 2025 | Harrogate Theatre
 
James Blunt – Leeds First Direct Arena – 13 February 2025
James will be presenting his Back To Bedlam 20th Anniversary Tour’; where he will perform the remastered Back To Bedlam album in its entirety, along with other classic hits from his career.  James will be supported by the fabulous Toploader on this tour.  You can get your tickets here:  James Blunt | first direct arena
 
Chris De Burgh – Harrogate Convention Centre – 22 February 2025
The legend that is Chris De Burgh is playing at the Harrogate Convention Centre in February.  Chris has spent half a century as a recording artist and the tour will be referring back to when he started out.  He will be performing and talking about the music, including talking about the origin of the songs and their background.  Not one to miss, this concert is literally on the doorstep of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages.  Just across the road in fact.  You cannot get any  more convenient than that.  You can book your tickets for Chris’ show here:  Chris de Burgh - 50 | Harrogate Theatre
 
Magical Mozart – Harrogate Choral Society – St Wilfreds Church, Harrogate – 22 March 2025
If you prefer classical music, you won’t want to miss this concert starring Mozart’s much loved Requiem and Ave Verum Corpus.  To accompany these Harrogate Choral will also be performing Rory Wainwright Johnson’s A Glimpse of the Light – a piece written as a partner for Mozart’s Requiem, the composer states that as he is not a religious person he wanted to offer a slightly different, more worldly approach to the concept of imagining an ‘afterlife’ that tied in more secular or natural themes.  The choir will also sing Da Pacem Domine by Arvo Pärt a work commissioned for a peace concert in Barcelona in 2004.  

The National Festival Orchestra will once again join the Harrogate Choral Society and will be conducted by David Lawrence. 

You can book your tickets for the concert here:  Magical Mozart | Harrogate Theatre  It is bound to be an atmospheric event and St Wilfreds Church is a wonderful venue.  It’s around 20 minutes walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages. 
 
Outdoor Events
Dark Skies Festival Activities – 14 February to 02 March 2025
There are a huge range of dark sky events available to book throughout January to March 2025 and the highlight will be the Festival itself.  Whether you want to hike or canoe under the stars, learn to photograph the night sky or just learn more about the sky at night, you will find an event you will love.  The Yorkshire Dales are the perfect place to linger, look up and marvel at the beauty of our amazing night skies.  The area is an official Dark Sky Reserve as awarded by DarkSky International (formally the International Dark-Sky Association)  You can find out more about the events here:  Dark Skies Festival: Yorkshire Dales  or check out our blog here.
 
Harewood House and Gardens – Open Daily
Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of Harewood House, featuring stunning landscapes and seasonal displays.  Owned by the Earl and Countess of Harewood, the Harewood Estate manages the countryside surrounding Harewood House. It has a nationally recognised conservation programme with particular emphasis on the restoration of historic buildings.  The house itself is open to the public and contains many treasures including artworks by Reynolds and Gainsborough and furniture by Chippendale whilst the gardens are stunning and were laid out by Capability Brown.  You can find out more and book your tickets here:  https://harewood.org/whats-on/
 
Harrogate Spring Flower Show – 24 – 27 April – Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate
The Spring Show kickstarts the gardening season with delightful displays of daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths.  With plenty of opportunity to view, plants and a huge range of stalls, this is the ideal show for the green-fingered amongst us.  The Event Centre is located on the outskirts of Harrogate.  However, there is plenty of parking available and buses run regularly past the entrance.  You can find out more and book your tickets here:  https://www.flowershow.org.uk/spring-show/
 
 
With so much to do, Harrogate is the perfect destination for a winter getaway. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music or comedy or undertake a stunning dark-sky adventure, there’s something here to suit every taste.

Book your stay directly with us and choose your perfect room (subject to availability) in which to enjoy a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.  Or, if you prefer to be more independent, book one of our lovely Camberley Cottages, for a luxurious self-catering break in Harrogate. 

Plan your visit today, and let Harrogate’s rich culture and stunning scenery provide the ultimate escape from the everyday!

When life gets hectic, there’s nothing like a spa retreat to soothe the soul and rejuvenate the senses. Harrogate has a range of excellent Spa virtually on the doorstep, with more located within a short drive.  Whether you are looking for a last-minute break to get away from the madness of Christmas preparations, looking to get away between Christmas and New Year, or you’d like a relaxing pamper in January, starting your New Year resolution to look after your well-being better in fine style.   Whatever your plans, The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages all provide the perfect base for your relaxing break.  Centrally located within a fifteen-minute walk of two delightful spas and a ten-minute walk from a range of fabulous dining establishments and serene winter walks, there is no better place to stay.  So sit back, relax, and check out the top spas in the area.
 
Majestic Hotel Spa, Ripon Road, Harrogate
Just a ten to fifteen-minute walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages, you will find the delightful Majestic Hotel Spa and gym.  The Majestic is one of the original hotels dating back to Harrogate’s Spa Heyday and offers a range of treatments as part of its spa days.  Whether you are looking for a classic spa day which includes an ESPA treatment, morning or afternoon tea, and access to all of the fabulous facilities, or you prefer one of the specialist spa treatment packages, you are sure to have a relaxing time.  The hotel is luxurious and the spa facilities include a swimming pool Himalayan Salt Sauna, Eucalyptus Steam Room, whirlpool jacuzzi, experience showers, Zen Garden and Outdoor Hot Tub.  To find our more, check out the packages here:  https://experiencethemajestic.com/spa/
 
Turkish Baths, Parliament Street, Harrogate
Dating back to 1897 and decorated in a fabulous Moorish style, this spa is a ten minute walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages and is one of the jewels in Harrogate’s crown.  The décor is fabulous and the treatments delightful.  It is the most complete example of Turkish Baths, which were hugely popular in the Victorian era, and still offers the traditional Turkish Bath experience alongside more modern spa treatments.   It is also possible to take a 45-minute guided tour of the Baths, which includes the history of this fabulous building and allows you to view the stunning décor even if you do not wish to book a treatment. 
The Turkish Baths experience is very popular so you do need to book in advance.  The process involves a ritual of heating, cooling and cleansing the body, promoting a sense of relaxation and a clear mind.  You can find out more and book your session here:  https://www.turkishbathsharrogate.co.uk/theturkishbaths
In addition to the Baths, a wide range of treatments are available, including massage, facials, mud wraps, reiki and reflexology.  You can check out the various treatments here:  https://turkishbathsharrogate.onejourney.travel/spa/treatments
 
Rudding Park Spa, Rudding Park Hotel, Follifoot, Harrogate
This spa is one of the best in the country and has recently been expanded to include a fabulous Rooftop Spa with an outdoor hydrotherapy pool.  The hotel grounds are huge so you gain stunning views of the countryside as you relax in the pool.  surrounded by stunning views of the countryside. Rudding Park’s rooftop spa is a sensory delight.  There is also a Spa Garden which is tranquil and forms the perfect location for meditation or a quiet read. 

Indoors, the facilities include Saunas, Steam Rooms and a relaxation room.  A wide range of treatments are available including facials and soothing massages.  They offer a range of spa experiences, from half to full days and most include dining at the highly regarded Horto restaurant on site.  The grounds are beautiful and well worth a walk around.  Rudding Park also has a well-regarded golf course should you wish to partake of a game whilst your partner is at the spa.
Find out more and book your experience here:  https://www.ruddingpark.co.uk/spa/spa-experiences/
 
Swinton Country Club & Spa, Swinton Estate, Masham, Ripon
Set within a 20,000 acre estate, this spa has it all and is highly regarded locally.  It boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, the latter being heated, and they overlook the beautiful gardens.  Swinton also offers a range of outdoor wellness activities including yoga and meditation in the Spa Garden, Forest Bathing,  and Wild Swimming in their stunning lake.  Surrounded by trees and having lily pads around the edges of the water, this is a real experience though perhaps not in the depths of winter.  Well worth a visit in the mid to late summer when the edges of the lake are reasonably warm though.    

The spa itself includes a steam room and sauna alongside a  range of holistic treatments including the Forest Therapy Massage which blends aromatherapy and deep tissue techniques.  There is a gym, thermal suite and a relaxation suite as well as a spa garden to relax within. 

Day spa guests can choose from the Poolside Menu or dine in the Terrace Restaurant, with much of the fruit and vegetables grown within the Swinton Estate Kitchen garden. 

Check out all the options available and book your spa day here:  https://www.swintonestate.com/countryclubandspa/
 
Whether you choose the Rudding Park Spa for its rooftop views, the Swinton Country Club & Spa for its estate setting, or any of the other delightful options, The Camberley, The Lodge and The Camberley Cottages are all an ideal complement to your tranquil spa retreat!
​
Book your stay with us, let go of stress, and discover the art of relaxation both within the spa and within our comfortable rooms.  Don’t forget, booking direct with us ensures you get the room you want (subject to availability) so go on, check out the rooms at The Camberley or The Lodge, or book one of the fabulous Camberley Cottages, and relax knowing you will be well looked after by us whilst having a wonderful spa experience to look forward to.  

​




Winter in Harrogate offers a unique charm that is impossible to resist. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, culture, or a chance to explore the great outdoors, this vibrant town has something for everyone. If you are looking to indulge in a getaway filled with tranquillity and memorable experiences, after a busy Christmas season, Harrogate is the perfect destination.
​
Our hotel, located in the heart of the town, provides the ideal base to explore all that Harrogate has to offer. From historic landmarks and artistic treasures to indulgent afternoon teas and rejuvenating spas, we’ve curated a list of the top ten things to do in Harrogate this winter to help you plan the ultimate visit.
 
Relax at a Spa
Harrogate is famous for its spa heritage with a number of spas available in and around the Harrogate area.  If you fancy a relaxing day of pampering after the hustle and bustle of Christmas, why not check out our Spa Blog here? Relax and Rejuvenate in Harrogate  Don’t forget, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages all offer relaxing rooms within walking distance of delightful restaurants, cafes and bars.  Book your spa, then book your stay with us. 
 
Visit the Royal Pump Room Museum
Learn about Harrogate’s history as a spa town and explore fascinating exhibits at this museum.  Just a short stroll from our hotel, this fascinating museum is sure to delight.  Click here to find out more about the exhibits and opening times.   https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/leisure-tourism-and-culture/museums-and-galleries/museums-harrogate-area/royal-pump-room-museum/royal-pump-room-museum-exhibitions
 
Explore Ripon.
The town of Ripon is around a 20-minute drive from Harrogate and boasts a Cathedral, Museum and a range of shops and eating establishments in and around its Market Square. 

Ripon Cathedral offers a rich history and beautiful architecture.  Whether you choose to attend a service, take a tour of the fabulous building to learn about its history, or attend a workshop or event, you are sure to enjoy your visit.  Find out what’s on here:  https://riponcathedral.org.uk/visit-us/#tours-and-trails
​
Whilst you are in Ripon, do check out the three museums:  there is a Workhouse Museum, A Prison and Policy Museum and a Courthouse Museum.  All are well worth a visit and the Workhouse Museum boasts a lovely garden, perfect for a stroll on a cold but clear day.  You can find out more about the museums and how to book a ticket, here:    https://riponmuseums.co.uk/
 
Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Harrogate is known for its excellent afternoon teas, and there is a wide choice of options.  Check out our recent blog which details the venues where you can take tea in the town.   
 
Catch a Show
Harrogate has a number of entertainment venues, all within a few minutes walk of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages.  Tickets for events at all the venues can be booked via Harrogate Theatre.  Whether you love comedy, music or a play, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.   Check out all the shows and venues here https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/ and plan your visit to Harrogate.  Don’t forget to check that we have your chosen room available too.  You can call us direct on:   to check availability and to book. 01423 561618
 
Mercer Art Gallery
Harrogate is home to the fabulous Mercer Art Gallery which is only a short walk from our accommodation.  With some fabulous exhibitions currently in place, winter 2025 is the ideal time to visit.  You can find out about the current exhibits here:  https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/leisure-tourism-and-culture/museums-and-galleries/museums-harrogate-area/mercer-art-gallery/exhibitions-mercer-art-gallery
 
Bettys Cookery School
For the keen chef or baker, why not book a short course at Bettys Cookery School?  It’s THE place to go to learn how to whip up a batch of Macaroons, make some of the Bettys Classics, or master the art of pastry, breadmaking, cake decorating and many more baked treats.  If you would prefer to master the art of effortless entertaining, there are courses for that too.  There are even courses on chocolate making.  To find your perfect Cookery School course, check out the options here:  https://www.bettys.co.uk/cookery-school/our-courses
 
Kindness Festival
Kinder Harrogate Kindness Festival is taking place at Harrogate College on 18 January 2025 between 11 am and 3 pm.  There will be free food, drinks and fun at this friendly event.  Explore interactive Games, Crafts and Activities from over 30 Harrogate Charities and Organisations that are here to make the world a better place.   The event location is a 15 minute drive from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages or you can take the train.  Our comfortable accommodation is just a ten minute walk from the main Harrogate Train Station where you can catch a train to Hornbeam Park Station, the latter is just across the road from Harrogate College. 
 
Royal Hall Tour
The Royal Hall in Harrogate offers guided tours that allow you to explore its stunning Edwardian architecture and learn about its rich history. Tours typically run at 11 am and 2pm.  You can find out the history and book a tour, here:  https://royalhallrestorationtrust.org.uk/ 
 
Royal Horticultural Society Harlow Carr
RHS Harlow Carr has several events and activities available during winter of 2025.  If the weather is fine and dry, why not book one of their Winter Walks and Talks.  There are various dates available throughout January and February and the talks will focus on both winter plants and winter garden maintenance.  (These sessions are held indoors if the weather lets us down).

Craft Workshops are run throughout the winter and you are sure to find something you enjoy. They offer wreath-making, botanical art, stained glass, photography, jewellery-making and lots more. 

Indoor Gardening Workshops are also available.  These are great if you are looking to learn how to care for houseplants and create fabulously lush, Instagram-worthy, indoor plant displays. 

Check out their website to find your ideal workshop or winter walk and talk. 
https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr/whats-on
 
As the crisp winter air envelops Harrogate, the town transforms into a haven of delightful experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re unwinding in a spa, soaking in history at the Royal Pump Room Museum, or creating your own culinary masterpiece at Bettys Cookery School, there’s no shortage of activities to make your visit extraordinary. Make the most of your winter escape by staying with us at The Camberley, The Lodge, or Camberley Cottages – all perfectly situated to ensure your Harrogate adventure is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Book your stay now, and let Harrogate become your favourite winter retreat.

​Afternoon Tea is a quintessentially British tradition and originated in the early 19th century.  It was introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who found the long wait between lunch and dinner unbearable. She began taking a light meal of tea, sandwiches, and cakes in the afternoon, a practice that quickly became very fashionable. 

Afternoon Tea is the perfect option whether you are meeting friends, celebrating special occasions, or simply indulging in a bit of luxury.  In Harrogate, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to afternoon tea, with several excellent tearooms in the local area.   

A traditional Afternoon Tea usually consists of sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries—with tea, of course. Some Afternoon teas will also include small savoury items. The key to an Afternoon Tea is the delicate nature of the servings. 

Tea is the star of the show, and where better to drink tea than in Harrogate, home of Taylors Tea, creators of the famous Yorkshire Tea, as well as many other teas such as Earl Grey, Darjeeling, Assam and English Breakfast.  Herbal and fruit teas are often available, with both chamomile and Peppermint teas being particularly popular. 

It’s not afternoon tea without sandwiches.  Traditional options include cucumber, smoked salmon with cream cheese, egg and cress, and ham with mustard, all served with the crusts off, and cut into delicate triangles. 

Warm scones, both plain and fruit varieties, are generally included and usually served with both clotted cream and fruity jam. 

And for those with a sweet tooth, the highlight of the meal is the cakes and pastries.  A number of varieties are usually included, and these may range from Victoria sponges and Lemon Drizzle cake slices to macarons, eclairs, fruit tarts and sumptuously decorated cupcakes. 

Some Afternoon Teas may include additional savouries such as quiches or cheese straws, and you may also choose champagne or prosecco rather than tea to accompany your meal. 

Harrogate has a number of charming places to take tea.  Perhaps the most well-known is Bettys.  Located at the top of Montpellier Hill, and famous for its Afternoon Teas, Bettys is popular with locals and visitors alike.  There are usually queues so it can be a good idea to book ahead.  However, the ambience, customer service and quality of food are second to none and well worth the wait.  The décor is traditional and retains the genteel air of a true Victorian tea room.  This is a “must do” for many people who visit the Harrogate area. 

Betty’s also has a Tea Rooms located at RHS Harlow Carr Gardens and for those who love gardening, this is perhaps the best location to choose..  What better way to round off a visit to RHS Harlow Carr and its well-stocked garden and gift shop than a trip to Betty’s for Afternoon Tea? 

Both Betty’s locations offer Vegetarian and Vegan options as well as Gluten-Free. 
If you prefer a more modern décor and quirky detailing, then head over to Mama Doreen’s Emporium.  Situated on James Street, Harrogate, this charming tea room creates the most delicious Afternoon Teas.  They specialise in cupcakes and speciality cakes and serve Afternoon Tea from vintage crockery.  There is a 1950’s feel to this tea room and it’s one of the local’s favourite places to take tea.  The cupcakes are highly recommended and they offer prosecco Afternoon Tea.  Mama Doreen’s cater to Gluten-Free diets and their GF afternoon teas are highly recommended. 

It is possible to walk to all of these tearooms from The Camberley Hotel and Cottages.  The two town centre locations are around a 10 – 15 minute walk away, whilst the Harlow Carr location is around a 45 minute to 1 hour walk.  Head up straight down Kings Road towards the town centre, cross the main road, still heading straight on, walking past the Crescent Gardens.  You will see the gates to the Valley Gardens ahead as you round the corner and can walk up through the gardens and woods, cross the road and continue on the narrow road.  Take a right at the glasshouses and cross the field diagonally left to the footpath which has stunning long-range views.  At the bottom of the hill, turn left and the gardens and tea rooms are a little way up the road on the right hand side. Afternoon Tea can be surprisingly filling, so you may be glad of the walk back after your visit to the tea rooms and gardens.

Not sure which tea rooms to visit?  Perhaps stay with us for a couple of nights and try both Betty’s and Mama Doreen’s.  There is plenty to do in Harrogate, whether you enjoy gardens, retail therapy, theatre or outdoor pursuits.  With over 30 years of experience in the Harrogate area, we can advise you on local attractions and activities.  Or why not check out our other blogs which give details on a range of things to do in the local area.
We have a range of options including:
Room-only (no breakfast) – The Lodge.
Bed and Breakfast – The Camberley.
Self-catering – the fabulous Camberley Cottages. 
​
Both The Lodge and The Camberley have a range of rooms available, and if you have specific requirements do book direct with us. We are always happy to help and want you to thoroughly enjoy your stay with us.    

Discover the Magic of the Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies
Why not escape the city lights this winter and explore the wonders of the universe? The 10th Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky Festival takes place between 14 February and 2 March 2025.  This annual event allows you to experience the breathtaking beauty of the night sky like never before. Whether you’re an avid stargazer, an astronomy enthusiast, or simply looking to reconnect with nature in a unique way, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages are all conveniently located just a short 30-45 minute drive from the designated Dark Sky sites that are used in the festival.  We provide the perfect base from which to enjoy the festival in comfort and style. Stay with us and get the best of both worlds:  easy access to stargazing hotspots and a relaxing retreat to return to after an evening under the stars.
Dark Sky Festivals celebrate areas of low light pollution, offering unparalleled views of celestial wonders. Imagine gazing up at an inky black sky dotted with countless stars, planets, and constellations—a sight increasingly rare in our modern world.
The Festival offers a range of events including guided Stargazing Sessions.  The sessions are led by experienced astronomers, who will help you to navigate the night sky and learn about the wonders above. Also on offer are night-time hikes allowing you to gaze at The Milky Way and a whole host of stars and planets as you are guided on your walk. 
For those who are looking for something a bit more active, the festival also offers Quid Games:  The Dark Edition. This trail race is equal parts thrill, strategy, and mystery.  Taking place on 18 January 2025 at Broughton Hall, this is sure to be a popular event, and has some amazing prizes up for grabs as well as the opportunity to try a range of running equipment (including head torches) from leading manufacturers.  To find out more and book your place, go here:  https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/whats-on/quid-games-the-dark-edition-18-01-25/
Also on offer are a range of night walks, including night photography sessions with well known photographers.  These are held in truly iconic locations including Malham Cove and Ribblehead Viaduct.  An absolute must for any photographer keen to hone their night photography skills. 
For those who prefer something a little less strenuous (or just warmer), there is a Star Party on 15 February which will be held 50% indoors (or 100% indoors if the weather fails to cooperate). There is also a Pizza party and an astronomy supper. 
This is just a few examples of events during this action-packed festival.  Check out all the events here:  https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/events/tag/dark-skies/list/
 
Why the Yorkshire Dales?
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing, thanks to its Dark Sky Reserve status. The region boasts several prime viewing locations where artificial light is minimal, allowing the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even distant galaxies to come into sharp focus. 
 
Northern Lights
In 2025, the Northern Lights are likely to be at the peak of their activity cycle making it more likely that they will be visible as far south as Yorkshire.  Whilst the Dark Sky Festival does not offer specific events relating to this phenomena, they have been visible in the Harrogate area in 2024, in locations where light pollution is low and it is predicted that through the winter of 2024/2025 they will become even more visible across the UK as they reach the peak of their activity cycle.  If you have not had the privilege of seeing them for yourself, you may well get lucky during the dark sky festival. 
If they are visible, then the dales will be an excellent place to view them, and to capture them on camera.  So if you have always wanted to see them, but don’t want to venture to Iceland to do so, why not visit Harrogate, stay in our cosy hotel, or luxurious self-catering cottages, and book some Dark Sky events. 
 
Plan Your Stay Today
The Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky Festival takes place between 14 February and 2 March 2025, and accommodations fill up fast during this popular event. Book your stay with us now and secure your place at the heart of this cosmic celebration.
While our hotel isn’t within a Dark Sky Reserve, it’s perfectly situated for you to enjoy a serene and luxurious stay while still being close to all the action.   After a chilly night under the stars, unwind in our plush rooms with modern amenities and delightful touches.  Harrogate is home to a plethora of delightful places to eat, whatever cuisine you prefer, and most are within walking distance of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages.  Our team is happy to assist with directions, festival schedules, and tips for making the most of your visit.  You can also check out some of our other blogs for ideas on what to do during the day, and where to eat, allowing you to plan a truly memorable break.  
For astronomy lovers, night sky photographers, or anyone seeking a magical escape, the combination of Harrogate’s charm and the celestial spectacle of the Dales is unbeatable. Let the stars guide you to an unforgettable adventure!
Ready to book? Call 07792 505910 or email us on [email protected]
 

James Lovegrove adds a new addition to the Sherlock Holmes genre with this Christmas Mystery (available in Hardback, EReader and Audio format). To quote the author, this is a compelling mix of a tragic suicide, a 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 and 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.