Winter brings a special kind of beauty to Harrogate and the surrounding North Yorkshire countryside. With fewer crowds, frosty mornings, and wide open views, it’s an ideal time to pull on a warm coat, lace up your walking boots, and explore some of the area’s most scenic routes at a gentler pace.

Valley Gardens and the Pinewoods
Right in the heart of Harrogate, and just a short stroll from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, lies the Valley Gardens.  Bare trees reveal elegant historic features, including the stunning Sun Colonnade, and winding paths through ornamental gardens lead past the delightful cafe and boating lake toward the Pinewoods.  Here, tall trees provide shelter from the elements and the scent of pine fills the air. Whilst the hill through the pinewoods is steep, it’s well worth it for the views across the town from the top of the hill. If you cross the main road and re-enter the woods along Nursery Lane, take a right just before you reach the bowling club. You will come out into a green space, which you can follow diagonally to a pathway leading to the RHS Garden at Harlow Carr.   There is a lookout point along the pathway that offers expansive views when the weather is cooperative.   

RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Winter is a wonderfully underrated time to visit RHS Garden Harlow Carr. Frost highlights the structure of plants, winter-flowering shrubs bring unexpected colour, and the garden feels calm and unhurried. Meandering paths make this a gentle but scenic walk that suits all abilities. Afterwards, a warm drink in the café is a welcome treat.  Perhaps check out the garden centre and gift shop whilst you are there too.

The River Nidd and Nidd Gorge
For those looking to stretch their legs a little further, the River Nidd offers a variety of walking routes, from flat riverside paths to more adventurous woodland trails through Nidd Gorge. Winter sunlight filtering through bare branches creates a magical atmosphere, and wildlife is often easier to spot at this time of year. It’s a perfect escape into nature and very popular with local dog walkers. 

Brimham Rocks in Winter
A short drive from Harrogate, Brimham Rocks is especially dramatic in winter. The vast gritstone formations stand stark against the sky, often dusted with frost or snow, creating a striking landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Well-marked paths make it accessible year-round, and the quieter winter months allow you to enjoy the scenery without distraction.

Washburn Valley and Fewston Reservoir
The Washburn Valley is another winter favourite, with circular walks around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs offering peaceful waterside routes and expansive views across the moors. The stillness of winter enhances the sense of space here, making it an ideal spot for reflection, photography, or simply enjoying the fresh Yorkshire air. 

Warmth and Comfort After a Winter Walk
One of the joys of winter walking is knowing you can return to warmth and comfort afterwards. Harrogate’s cafés, tearooms, and traditional pubs provide plenty of opportunities to thaw out and refuel, while the town itself offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere throughout the colder months.  And of course, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, all provide  a warm and cosy retreat in which to rest, re-group and relax in one of our comfortable rooms.  We are situated very centrally so after a warm up and a rest, you have only a short walk to a range of eating establishments for your evening meal.  If you aren’t sure where to eat, let us know and we can make some recommendations based on your preferences.  Alternatively, why  not check out some of our blogs which give details of some of the great places to eat and things to do in Harrogate.

Whether you prefer gentle garden strolls, riverside rambles, or bracing moorland walks, Harrogate in winter offers something for every walker. It’s a season that reveals a quieter, more reflective side of North Yorkshire — perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors followed by a cosy evening indoors in our lovely cosy rooms.  To book your stay, click here.  

Harrogate has become a favourite destination for runners of all levels, with its mix of iconic road races, challenging trails and stunning Yorkshire scenery. Whether you’re lining up for a half marathon, tackling a 10k, or taking on a hilly ultramarathon trail run, one thing is certain: where you stay can make a real difference to race day.

Choosing The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages for your stay is a no-brainer.  We are centrally located and have parking available so there is less travel stress and more time to focus on your run, knowing that you have a comfortable base to rest and recharge. From being close to race starts and transport links, to enjoying a great night’s sleep in a supportive, comfortable bed, staying locally helps you arrive at the start line feeling calm, prepared and ready to perform. Add in a hearty breakfast to fuel your effort, and you’ve got the ideal setup for a successful race weekend.

Check out just some of the races for 2026, then pick your options, book your room (you can book directly here - Check Availability or Book) then with the admin out of the way, it’s time to lace up your trainers and head out for a training run ahead of the big day.

7 February 2026 - Harrogate Hustle
With a choice of half marathon, 20 mile or Ultra Marathon distances and a route that takes in some beautiful views, in particular, the stunning Nidd Gorge, this is one not to be missed for endurance athletes.  You can find out more and book your place here:  Harrogate Hustle | Sat 7 Feb 2026

1 March 2026 – Fun Run for St Michael’s Hospice
St Michaels is our local hospice and their first ever fun run is being held on 1 March. With 5km or 10 km distances, plus a race for young children, this event is ideal for anyone who prefers a shorter run and is well-suited for those considering their first organised run.  It promises to be a friendly and supportive event, and your entry fee will help support the hospice as well.  Book your place here.
 
28 June 2026 – Harmony Energy “Run Harrogate” 10Km race
This hugely popular 10km race takes in some beautiful areas of Harrogate, including the Crimple Valley.  It sets off from the Yorkshire Showground where there is ample parking for everyone.  It’s a friendly race, well signposted and manageable for new runners as well as the more experienced.  Just watch out for the last hill.  Known as The Crimple Killer, last year runners were encouraged up the hill by a trumpeter.  Book your place here.
 
Every Saturday – Harrogate ParkRun.  Oatlands Stray.
A regular feature of the running calendar in Harrogate, this fairly flat course goes three times around a section of The Stray in the centre of Harrogate.  It’s within walking distance (about 15 minutes) of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages and regularly attracts 400 runners with the Christmas run attracting around 800 or so each year.  It’s super friendly (as all ParkRuns are) and you can walk it if you prefer as there are always ParkWalkers on duty to encourage you around.  You can find out  more about Harrogate Parkrun here:  home | Harrogate parkrun | Harrogate parkrun

If you are planning to stay for a week and take in all that Harrogate and the surrounding area has to offer, why  not do the Harrogate Parkrun on your  first Saturday, and choose another local run the following Saturday.  We have a blog that details the nicest local Parkruns which you can check out here: running-breaks-in-harrogate.html

Sunday 5 July 2026 – 5km and 10 km Race for Life
Raising funds for Cancer Research UK, these races are run on the Stray so they are mostly flat, very suitable for new runners at either distance and have the advantage of raising funds for a very worthwhile cause.  There is a minimum fundraise attached to this event and you can find out more here:  Harrogate 5k 2026 | Race for Life – Cancer Research UK
 
Various Dates – Punk Panther Trail Races
Punk Panther races are always great fun and hotly anticipated.  They run them in the most beautiful locations and in 2026 they have several races in the Harrogate area. You can check them all out, and sign up, here:  Races

24 March 2026 – Spring Headtorch Half
A midweek night-time trail race around Swinsty and Fewston Reservoirs - Headtorch essential! A chance to race around the reservoirs in the dark without getting lost!  The reservoirs are lovely even at night, and as it’s not subject to light pollution, you may be lucky, if the weather and the aurora cooperate, and see the Northern Lights.  They’ve been photographed from this location in 2025.
11 April 2026 – Ripon Stinger
Starting and finishing in Studley Roger, close to the historic city of Ripon with its great cathedral, this race mainly follows the Ripon Rowel route, visiting wooded valleys and historic sites such as the spectacular world heritage site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Water gardens. It also takes in the tranquil River Skell's Valley of the Seven Bridges. Other great views are the beautiful St. Margaret’s Church and Hackfall woods.
6 October 2026 – Autumn Headtorch Half
Another headtorch race around Swinsty and Fewston Reservoirs which is bound to be fun. 
24 October 2026 - Nidderdale Way UltraMarathon
Ripley Castle, Brimham Rocks, Scar House Reservoir and How Stean Gorge are just four of the iconic Yorkshire locations on this epic ultramarathon trail run along the Nidderdale Way, a 55-mile route set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Perfect for everyone from those looking to complete a first ultra, to seasoned long-distance running veterans. There is a choice of four different distances, from half marathon to a full loop of the Nidderdale Way.
 
Whichever race you choose, after the finish line is crossed and the medal is earned, having a welcoming place to return to makes all the difference. Staying at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages offers you the chance to truly unwind — whether that’s sinking into a comfortable bed to rest tired legs, enjoying a hot shower, or sitting down to a well-deserved, nourishing breakfast the next morning.
With a convenient central location, easy access to local race venues, and everything you need to prepare properly before and recover comfortably after your run, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages turns race day into a completely stress-free experience. So why not book your race, book your room and plan not only your race but your stay in Harrogate.  With so many things to see and do, as well as places to eat and socialise, you’ll want to book for more than a weekend.  Check out the rooms and book here.  Let the adventure begin.   

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Why not escape city lights this winter and wander into the wonders of the universe? The 2026 Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival runs from 13 February to 1 March 2026.  This annual festival gives you a chance to experience the night sky like never before. Whether you’re a devoted stargazer, a budding astronomy enthusiast, or simply someone wanting to reconnect with nature in a special way — this is an event you won’t want to miss.

When you stay with us at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages, you’ll be just a 30–45 minute drive from many of the designated Dark Sky sites used during the festival. That means you can enjoy incredible stargazing by night, and return to cosy, comfortable accommodation afterwards — the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Dark Sky Festivals celebrate areas with very low light pollution, offering unbeatable views of celestial wonders. Imagine peering up at an inky-black sky filled with innumerable stars, planets, and constellations — a spectacle that’s increasingly rare in our modern, artificially-lit world.

This year’s festival includes a broad lineup of events taking place across the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

There is a free Planet and Constellation Trail in the woodland at Aysgarth Falls honouring the solar system and night sky (13 February – 1 March). Or why not book onto one of the stargazing talks – ideal for learning to navigate the night sky with telescopes and charts.

For the more adventurous amongst us, why not try their exciting night-time guided fell runs, or perhaps a spot of canoeing under the stars. 

And for the keen photographer, there are both astro-photography workshops and night walks — perfect if you want to capture the Milky Way or constellations with your camera.
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Find out more about what’s on offer, and book your places, here. 

Why the Yorkshire Dales?
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is one of the UK’s premier choices for stargazing, thanks to its designation as a Dark Sky Reserve by DarkSky International (formerly the International Dark-Sky Association).  With minimal light pollution, some of the darkest skies in Britain, and wide open horizons, it’s the perfect place to witness the Milky Way, meteor showers, and shimmering constellations in all their glory.

Plan Your 2026 Stay Now
The 2026 Festival runs 13 February–1 March, and demand for accommodation is expected to be high. While our cottages and lodgings might not sit directly inside the Dark Sky Reserve, they offer a cosy, comfortable base — just a short drive from the National Park events. After spending a magical evening gazing at the stars, you can return to warmth and comfort: modern amenities, restful bedrooms, and a friendly local vibe.

During the day, enjoy the beauty and convenience of Harrogate, with its inviting selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops — all just a short stroll from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages. We are always delighted to help with directions and recommendations for daytime adventures and places to eat.  Just ask.  Or, why not check out our various blogs which give an overview of just some of the activities and adventures that await you in Harrogate. 

Whether you’re an astronomy lover, a night-sky photographer, or simply someone looking for a peaceful out-of-the-ordinary getaway, the combination of Harrogate’s charm and the Dales’ celestial spectacle makes for an unbeatable escape. Let the stars guide you to an unforgettable adventure in 2026.  You can book your room direct with us here.