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.  

I collect cosy crime and especially winter themed mysteries so this of course caught my eye. The book is available in Paperback, Electronic and Audio. So our main character is Daphne King who is a reporter for a London Newspaper. She has recently cracked a crime ring and has previously done other risky undercover work so is wanting to take a break and be out of the lime light for a while. Her Girlfriend/Partner is Veronica who is a top theatre director. Our story starts with our reporter Daphne attending a School reunion and staying with an old friend who lives in the village & who also works at the school. I will be 100% honest and say this story is quite slow to start with a lot of setting the back ground and basic foundation of the characters - I think the murder doesn't actually happen till about chapter 26 - however once it does the action is swift and well written. Part of the twists and turns of the plot is, is it some of the crime gangs she has busted? is it something new related to the school? or is it her mind playing tricks on her? This is a cosy christmas read with a few flash  backs to Daphne 's time at the school which in turn is related to the murder. All in all a short enjoyable winter read and the audio book is well done. I would say its very light on the crime details which is fine so would be suitable for a younger reader as it is not graphic.

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 Guest Houses and Cottages, located in the heart of the town, provide 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.  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.   
 
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. 
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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.   
 
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 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 is the ideal time to visit.  You can find out about the current exhibits 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.  
 
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. 
 
Royal Horticultural Society Harlow Carr
RHS Harlow Carr has several events and activities available during winter of 2026.  Both gardening and Craft Workshops are run throughout the winter and you are sure to find something you enjoy. Indoor Gardening Workshops are also available.  
Check out their website to find your ideal workshop or to book a ticket to visit this fabulous garden, here. 

 
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.

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Harrogate is the perfect destination for an entertaining getaway with a calendar packed with events and entertainment, whatever your preferences are.  And, of course, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages provide the perfect base for your short break or holiday in the area.   Just minutes from the town centre, you will be just a short walk away from your chosen entertainment when you stay with us. 

Check out some of the great events that are taking place this winter.

Catch the Pantomime before it ends on 18 January.  This year’s panto is Jack and the Beanstalk and it’s bound to be a fun evening whichever date you choose. 

For those who prefer comedy, we have the regular Hyena Lounge taking place on 24 January and 7 March,   Anna Soden appears at the Studio Theatre on 7 February,  whilst Sara Pascoe and Dave Spikey appear at the main theatre on 6 and 27 February respectively.

Music lovers will be spoilt for choice with shows as diverse as The Drifters, who are at the Royal Hall on 25 January, Mozart and Strauss at Holy Trinity Church, Ripon,  a tribute to Robbie Williams on 7 February and the hugely popular Classic Rock Show at the Royal Hall on 12 February.  This one tends to sell out quickly so don’t delay if you want tickets.  Then, looking forward to April, the fabulous Fairport Convention will play at Harrogate Theatre. 

Banff Mountain Film Festival tour lands in Harrogate on 18 February if you are a film lover, and for fans of dance, we have Tap Factory on 19 February at the Royal Hall.  You can find out more about all of these events, and so many more, as well as book your tickets, here.  

A little further afield, in Leeds, just a 30-minute drive away, is the First Direct Arena.  There is really convenient parking very close by and some great shows are coming to the arena this winter.  For fans of Strictly, you won’t want to miss the Strictly Live Tour.  This runs over two nights, 29 and 30 January. 

For comedy fans, why not book tickets to see Greg Davies on 22 March?  Looking forward into April, the 17th sees the incredibly talented Yungblud take to the stage on the very first date in his Idols tour.  To book tickets for these, or any of the other fabulous acts playing at the arena, click here.

Winter also sees some great events hosted by RHS Harlow Carr, including a workshop on plant grafting, which will take place on 29 January, promising to be both hands-on and instructive. Also available at RHS Harlow Carr is a Terrarium workshop on 12 February and on 20 February there are two workshops where you can create items for the garden from willow.  For those new to gardening, or those with a new garden to plan, a workshop on garden planning is being held on 28 February.   To book places on these, and other events held at the garden, or to book tickets to visit this stunning garden during the winter, click here.

A Rock, Gem and Bead fair is taking place at Pavilions Harrogate, which is a short distance from the centre of town by car, with plenty of parking available.  You can find out more here.  

Once you have visited the fair, we highly recommend lunch at the nearby Fodder restaurant and a wander through their beautifully stocked farm shop which sells a wide range of locally produced items ranging from meat to mugs.   We highly recommend the fruit scones or the delicious cakes, if you do decide to stop at Fodder for lunch.  Check them out here.  

With so much to do, Harrogate is the perfect destination for a winter getaway. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, comedy, or learn a new skill in the garden, there’s something here to suit every taste.  Alternatively, if you are just looking for a quiet getaway after the hustle and bustle of Christmas, we've got your back.  With our comfortable rooms, delicious breakfasts and a range of walks, shopping options and delightful eating establishments, all within easy walking distance of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, we are the perfect place to hunker down, get cosy, relax and unwind. 

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!

Yorkshire has a proud industrial heritage which was supported and enabled by the rise of the railway.  We have a range of steam railways in the county,  and a pleasant drive of just under two hours from Harrogate through gorgeous scenery brings you to Grosmont.  A beautiful village with a steam railway station.  You could be forgiven for thinking that you have been here before, though, particularly if you are a keen movie buff.  The steam trains and station at Grosmont have featured in several films over the years.  

The village itself was a thriving centre of industry in the 19th century.  It was built around the discovery of ironstone.  Once a bustling industrial village on the route of George Stephenson’s pioneering railway between Whitby and Pickering, it is now a tranquil location and has stunning views.  the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) keeps that proud industrial heritage alive. You can watch the plumes of steam rise as heritage locomotives pull into the station and can take a scenic journey through some of the most beautiful countryside in England.  Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply love a nostalgic adventure, it’s an experience not to be missed.

The beauty of the village and surrounding hills has not gone unnoticed by Hollywood either.   In 2021, film crews and Hollywood legend Harrison Ford arrived to shoot scenes for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. The village’s famous station, with its authentic period feel, was transformed into a 1940s setting.  Harry Potter fans may recognise Grosmont as Hogsmeade Station.  It featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.  The North York Moors Railway has also featured in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, starring Tom Cruise, who filmed some very dramatic train scenes on the railway. 

Grosmont is a thriving rural community with plenty to explore. Home to Britain’s oldest independent Co-operative store, established in 1867, the store continues to serve locals and visitors.  It’s a great place to pick up picnic essentials before heading out for a walk in the area.   There are also some very inviting places to grab a coffee and cake. The Old School Coffee Shop and Grosmont Station Tea Room are both local favourites, and well worth a visit. 

The village is just a short drive from Whitby, making it a great place to visit on your way to see Whitby Abbey, which provided inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula. In the novel, he describes the graveyard and the famous 199 steps leading up to the church.   However, the rumour that Dracula is actually buried there is false. 

It is definitely worth planning a detour to Whitby for some super-fresh fish and chips for your teatime treat.  We highly recommend the Fish and Chip shop next to the slipway.  A warning if you plan to sit on the nearby seats overlooking the harbour though, particularly if you aren’t super fond of birds getting too close to you.  The gulls have become used to being fed there, and they may land quite close to you and demand chips. 

If the tide is favourable, you can walk down the slipway for a short stroll on the beach (with or without your fish and chips). 

Whitby also boasts some delightful independent shops in the centre of the town and for those who love jewellery, don’t miss the Whitby Jet shops.   You can seek out raw jet on the beach too.  It’s not easy to find, but it’s not impossible either, so it’s well worth keeping an eye out for that, and for stones that include fossils too.  Whitby is a fossil hunter’s paradise so it’s well worth a stroll on the beach if geology is your thing.  You may wish to bring your hammer with you so you can split the likely looking rocks in search of ammonites and belemnites, both of which are regularly found in Whitby. 

Harrogate makes the perfect base for exploring both of these beautiful locations.  When you stay at The Camberley, The Lodge, or Camberley Cottages, you are assured of a warm welcome, a great breakfast and comfortable rooms, all en-suite, with one boasting a fabulous copper slipper bath.  Perfect for retaining that feeling of days gone by before heading out to one of the delightful restaurants and bars nearby.     Don’t  forget that you get the best deals when booking direct and can choose your perfect room too.  Just click here to book your stay with us.  

Vision & Labour the art of making comics - Mercer Art Gallery - till April 2026
Nov 20th 7.30pm Berwins Salon North sees Jenny Draper, Adam Farrer & Dr Alex Box at the Crown Hotel
Nov 20th Blues Bar - Bang, Bang, Bang
Nov 21st Author Fintan Drury talks about his book Catastrope in conversation with Dr  Suesanne Samara at the Friends Meeting House
22nd Nov- 20th Dec - Exhibition of the life & work of artist Joash Woodrow 108 Fine art gallery Cold bath road
Nov 22nd - Tom Jones tribute - Frazer Theatre Knaresborough
Nov 22nd - Ripley Live presents Gary Stewart's Weetwood Mac at Ripley town hall
Nov 24th -6.45pm Henshaws Charity Festive Showcase at Ripon Cathedral 
Nov26th to Jan 18th - Jack and the Beanstalk Panto Harrogate Theatre
27th Nov 7.30pm - Comedy with Paul Pirie, Meryl O'Rourke, Ian Visible and Saul Henry at the Square and Compass North Rigton
27th Nov 7.30pm The Wittering Whitehalls Barely Alive at the Royal Hall Harrogate
28th Nov 7pm - Reverand & The Makers at The Bilton Club Skipton Road
28th Nov 7.30pm The Stylistics greatest hits & more Harrogate Convention Centre
29th Nov 7.30pm Knaresborough Choral Society King James School
30th Nov Henning Wehn Acid Wehn the Royal Hall Harrogate
1st Dec 7.30pm Christmas with Anton Du Beke & Friends at the Royal Hall
4th Dec 7.30pm Violinist Nicola Benedetti plays the Royal Hall Harrogate
5th Dec 7.30pm Swing into Christmas - Royal Hall Harrogate
5th Dec 8pm the Scrooge Diaries performed ny Peter Macqueen at Grewelthorpe Village Hall
6th Dec Harrogate Symphony Orchestra - Royal Hall Harrogate
6th Dec 7pm Live music with Bilko Kettlesing Village Hall
6th Dec 7pm Sounds of the Sixties tributes to Elvis, The Beatles, Chuch Berry at Wetherby Town Hall
6th Dec Gaelforce live at Frazer Theatre Knaresborough
7th Dec 4pm On Christmas Night St Wilfred's Church Harrogate
7th Dec 7pm Hyena Lounge presents at the Manhattan Club
`11th Dec The UK Pink Floyd experience Royal Hall Harrogate
11-13th Dec 7.30pm Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton at the Harrogate Studio Theatre
12th Dec 7.30pm Vinyl Sessions presents classics at Starling Independant Cafe Harrogate
13th Dec - Hyena Lounge Christmas Baubles Manhattan Club Harrogate
13th Dec Harrogate Choral Society presents the Messiah at St Wilfred's Church
17th Dec History Wardrobe presents a Very Victorian Christmas at Frazer Theatre Knaresborough
20th Dec 6pm Fanfare for Christmas with the Brighouse & Rastrick Band & Harrogate Gilbert & Sullivan Society at the Royal Hall
29th Dec Behind the Scenes Pantomime Tour at Harrogate Theatre.

Murder on the Links Agatha Christie
We join Poirot when he is opening his post and has received a letter entreating him to go straight to France on an urgent mission. In parallel Hastings meets a beautiful girl  (we all know how susceptible he was) on the train – she is a circus double act with her sister and they are acrobats.
Poirot’s letter is from a businessman called Paul Renauld but when Poirot arrives at his house he finds him already dead. Renauld was abducted from his bed in the night by masked invaders but his body is found stabbed on the local golf course in a shallow grave.
However the housemaid remembers a mysterious visit from the neighbour Mrs Duveen and a fragment of a cheque is found. The murdered man’s son Jack quarrelled with him right before about his inheritance and choice of fiancé – was it him? The murder weapon seems to have been a custom item made from a piece of aeroplane but was it the only one? And if so who had the other?
Why was there a body of a tramp found just after the murder? And what was the conversation in the rose garden about? Last but not least why does the situation ring bells with Poirot of a similar case years ago as well as the appearance of Mrs Duveen?

Why Didn’t they ask Evans? Agatha Christie
So we meet our primary character Bobby Jones playing golf with local Dr Thomas – together they find the body of a man very near to death. Bobby stays with the man while the Dr goes for help and hears the dying man’s final words, “ Why didn’t they ask Evans?”. Bobby presumes this to be of no importance but does see a photograph fall from the man’s pocket of a beautiful girl – but he puts it back to keep with the body.
Shortly after a Mr Roger Bassington-French appears and takes over supervising the body as Bobby has to get back for Organ Practice – but why is he even there? He said he was there viewing houses, but was he?
 
However at the inquest they state that the body was identified from a picture of his sister that was found with the body – however the lady that comes to the inquest purporting to be the sister looks nothing like the photo.
 
From this point Bobby’s curiosity is stirred and with the help of local Earls daughter Frankie Derwent they decide to investigate further. Shortly after Bobby while napping is poisoned and that seals it for them that this was not a simple accident.

There’s no better place to soak up the festive spirit than Harrogate during the winter months. With twinkling lights strung across the town and the Stray glowing with illuminated trees, Harrogate transforms into a true winter wonderland. Whether you’re coming to browse the Christmas markets, enjoy the theatre and pantomimes, or simply relax in a cosy retreat, The Camberley, The Lodge, and Camberley Cottages offer the perfect base for your festive getaway.

From mid-November onwards, Harrogate comes alive with seasonal charm. The town’s Christmas Fayre and Market, just a short stroll from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, runs from 5 to 24 December. Expect beautifully decorated chalet stalls, traditional fairground rides, and a spectacular Ferris Wheel, all set beneath a canopy of sparkling lights.

Browse for unique gifts, festive decorations, and tempting street food while enjoying the joyful atmosphere. Don’t miss the Candy Cane Express – a free-to-ride road train that takes you through the heart of Harrogate, passing by key festive spots such as Cambridge Street, Market Place, Station Square and Cambridge Crescent. The Fayre’s central location makes it easy to combine your visit with a spot of Christmas shopping in Harrogate’s high street favourites and charming independent boutiques.
 Find out more here.  

Explore the Region’s Christmas Markets
If you’re keen to venture further afield, the surrounding towns also host wonderful festive markets that are well worth the trip.

Knaresborough, just a short drive from Harrogate, holds its Christmas Market on 6 and 7 December in the historic Market Place. With over 60 stalls offering handmade gifts, festive treats, and live entertainment, it’s a delightful day out. Warm up with a mulled wine before enjoying the spectacular firework finale on Sunday at around 4:30 pm.  Find out more here.

A little further afield, the Skipton Christmas Market takes place on Sunday 7 and Sunday 14 December along Skipton High Street. You’ll find over 100 stalls selling artisan crafts, local produce, and festive food and drink, accompanied by entertainment throughout the day. Skipton often hosts a Makers Fair alongside the market – typically held on the first day – inside the beautiful Skipton Town Hall (date to be confirmed). It’s the perfect opportunity to discover locally made treasures and soak up the seasonal cheer.  

Finally, for a truly historic setting, head to York’s Christmas Market, which runs from 13 November to 21 December 2025. Centred around Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, the market features traders from across Yorkshire offering regional crafts and gifts.  Find out more here.  To make your visit easier, we recommend using York’s Park and Ride facilities – Rawcliffe Bar or Poppleton are both excellent options. Spend the day exploring York’s many attractions such as the York Dungeon, Jorvik Viking Centre, or Castle Museum, before relaxing in one of the city’s cosy cafés or traditional pubs.

Stay in the Heart of the Festivities
After a day spent exploring the markets and soaking up the festive atmosphere, return to the warmth and comfort of The Camberley, The Lodge, or Camberley Cottages. With their welcoming rooms, convenient locations, and home-from-home feel, they’re the perfect places to unwind during your Christmas visit to Harrogate.  Check out the rooms here, and don’t forget, it’s easier to book direct with us to ensure you get the room you really want, whether you want a room with a huge shower, or one with a slipper bath. All our rooms are en-suite, and there’s one to suit everyone.  Alternatively, why not book one of our cosy cottages?  They make a delightful base from which to explore all that the town and wider area has to offer. 

Book your winter stay today and make this year’s festive season one to remember – surrounded by lights, laughter, and the unmistakable charm of Harrogate at Christmas.