Autumn Colours

​Harrogate in autumn makes a great central base from which to explore the beauty of the autumn landscapes, whether you stay close to the guest house and take in the beauty of the Valley Gardens and the bustling town as it gears up for winter, or you choose to take a drive through the Dales, to soak up the beauty of the hills and valleys, perhaps stopping for coffee in one of the villages. 

One sight you won’t want to miss in the autumn is the stunning Thorp Perrow Arboretum.  Nestled near Bedale in North Yorkshire, this 100-acre arboretum is home to a nationally significant collection of trees and champion specimens, all beautifully framed by autumn’s rich colours.  Thorp Perrow makes an ideal day-trip.  There are stunning nature walks and a number of workshops and information walks are available – Dates and events vary so do check them out before you book your stay with us.  You can find out more about the Arboretum, and its events, here.  
 
The Arboretum is also home to a Bird of Prey and Mammal Centre with Bird of Prey flying displays arranged regularly.  It's definitely worth timing your visit to coincide with one of these displays, as the sight of these majestic birds in flight is truly awe-inspiring. 

You may also enjoy one of the guided walks, which range from Fungus Forays to winter walks where snow or frost allow the structure and bark of the trees to be showcased in ways that delight and inspire. 

There is a lovely café at the entrance to the Arboretum which serves excellent coffee and snacks.  The outdoor seating overlooks the Arboretum, and birds often come down onto the tables and walls in search of crumbs. 

 For those who love to run, Thorp Perrow Parkrun is held just outside the Arboretum, every Saturday.  It’s a stunning one-lap course, though it can get very muddy so we recommend tying your shoelaces very tightly before setting off.   Parking is at the Arboretum and the run is very well signposted from there.  The course runs across agricultural land and the run director will recommend that you avoid the Killer Sheep en-route.  They are less dangerous for their teeth, and more for their alarming tendency to rush across in front of you if startled. 

Harrogate is about a 40 – 60 minute drive from Thorp Perrow. It offers a splendid base for visitors wanting both comfort and culture as well as easy access to a wide range of eating establishments within an easy walk of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages.  After a day in the Arboretum—walking, attending workshops or trails—having somewhere comfortable to return to makes the trip more relaxing.

For those who love to visit gardens, you are spoilt for choice in the Harrogate area.  Just a few minutes walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, lies the Valley Gardens.  Well worth a walk through the formal gardens and up into the pine woods (up a very steep hill it has to be said). 

Harrogate is also home to RHS Harlow Carr Gardens which is within walking distance of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, for those who are keen walkers.  If you prefer a more leisurely approach to the RHS gardens, a short drive out of Harrogate on the Otley Road will bring you to the gardens.  There is plenty of car parking available and a branch of Bettys Tea Rooms is on site too. 

If you are planning to visit Harrogate in November or December, you should definitely plan to visit Glow at RHS Harlow Carr.  This event is always extremely popular.  It takes place as darkness falls on the gardens and the plants and trees are lit up with coloured lights, there are fields of lights, and last year there were bubbles too.  Every year, it is different, and it’s well worth the entry fee.  Bettys have a pop-up tea room in the gardens where you can get hot chocolate, cakes and mince pies to warm up midway around your tour of the gardens.  Highly popular with local residents, you can book your ticket here, and it runs from 19 November to 23 December 2025. 

Staying at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages enhances your stay.  Expect comfort, luxurious rooms, an excellent Breakfast (if staying at The Camberley) and access to a wide range of cultural and dining experiences.  Why not check out some of our other blogs to get ideas for what to do and where to eat. 

Once you’ve chosen your outings, and booked any workshops or events, pop back and book your room.  If you book direct, you can be sure of the best prices and your choice of room (subject to availability).  You can view all the rooms here and book your stay here.