When people think of Harrogate, they picture elegant architecture, soothing spa waters, and genteel afternoon teas. But did you know this lovely town also has a few secrets up its sleeve?

Discover the Curious Side of Harrogate.  Our town has an intriguing history.  Here at The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, we love sharing the hidden stories of Harrogate with our guests. Whether you're a history buff, a trivia lover, or just enjoy a good tale, these fascinating local facts add a fun twist to your stay.

So, pop the kettle on and settle in—we're taking you on a tour of Harrogate’s quirky side.
 
A Hidden Railway Tunnel Beneath Your Feet
Beneath Langcliffe Avenue, a little-known piece of Harrogate’s railway past lies dormant: the Brunswick Tunnel. This hidden, curved railway tunnel once ran to a former terminus station, predating the construction of the Knaresborough Viaduct and running underneath Trinity Church.

During the Second World War, the tunnel found a new lease of life—repurposed as a bomb shelter to protect locals during air raids. Today, it’s sealed and silent, but its story lingers just beneath the surface.  You won’t see it on a typical tourist map, but knowing it’s there adds an extra layer of intrigue to your walk through the area.
 
Harrogate and the Mystery of Agatha Christie
In 1926, the “Queen of Crime” Agatha Christie vanished for 11 days, sparking a nationwide manhunt. Where did she turn up? Harrogate. She was discovered staying under an assumed name at the Swan Hotel (now The Old Swan), reportedly reading newspapers about her own disappearance. The mystery of her temporary amnesia remains unsolved, but it adds an irresistible layer of intrigue to the town.
 
The Explosive Origins of Harrogate Toffee
Harrogate’s famous spring waters were once prescribed for digestive health, though many visitors found their sulphurous taste... challenging. Enter Harrogate toffee, rumoured to have been invented to mask the pungent flavour. These boiled sweets offered relief to the palate and, some say, the consequences of drinking the water—which could be rather “explosive” in their own right.
 
Harrogate’s Volcanic Past and the Birth of Spa Culture
The reason Harrogate has spa waters is simple but explosive:  Harrogate sits on top of an ancient volcanic fault line.  Our geological past created the geothermal quirks that lie beneath Bogs Field and fed the town’s mineral-rich springs upon which its spa heritage is based.  During the 18th and 19th centuries, it was one of the places to be and be seen for aristocrats and socialites, and the grand architecture that resulted still enthrals visitors to this day. 

The sulphur well, which you used to be able to smell long before you saw it, is no longer operational, but you can find out more about our spa heritage at The Royal Pump Rooms museum, just a short walk from The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages. 

The Royal Pump Room was built by Isaac Shutt in 1842 to provide shelter for the town’s affluent visitors as they took the famous waters.   At its peak, each summer the Pump Room attracted 15,000 people and in 1911, Tsarina Alexandra of Russia was one of its most notable visitor.
 
Starbuck, Starbeck, and the High Seas
Here’s one for coffee lovers: the Starbucks chain is alleged by some to take its name from a character in Moby-Dick, but there's a curious Yorkshire connection. Some sources suggest that the name Starbuck may be linked to Starbeck, a suburb of Harrogate, named after a person who emigrated from the area to the American whaling town of Nantucket. While this link is anecdotal and not confirmed by Starbucks themselves, it adds a flavour of maritime mystery to your morning latte.
 
WWII Bombing – A Lesser-Known Chapter
Despite being located reasonably close to Leeds and York, both of which were targeted by German Bombers in World War Two, Harrogate escaped relatively unscathed.  Just three bombs were reported to have fallen on Harrogate, all of them fell in the grounds of The Majestic Hotel and it is thought that these may have been offloaded by German pilots returning from raids on Leeds and York.   Many Harrogate families also housed evacuees from the larger conurbations in order to keep the children from those cities safe. 
 
US Military Hospitals
During World War II, Harrogate hosted two US General Hospitals: the 115th at Hildebrand Barracks and the 116th at Uniacke Barracks, both located on Penny Pot Lane. These hospitals utilised British Army barracks built in 1939. The barracks are now the site of an Army Training College for young UK soldiers joining a range of regiments. 

Harrogate continues to have a close relationship with the United States via the American base at Menwith Hill.
 
Ear, Ear
The Montpellier Quarter once had a Turkish Baths attendant known for lifting gentlemen by their ears as part of a “traditional” welcome.
 
Bettys Café Tea Rooms
Bettys Café Tea Rooms was inspired by a Swiss chocolatier stranded in Yorkshire by mistake—proof that the best detours sometimes become legacies.
 
Pop Trivia
Harrogate hosted the first Eurovision Song Contest to be held in the UK, in 1982. 

The fabulously talented Saxophonist, Snake Davis, was brought up in Harrogate.  Originally a member of the local band Zoot and the Roots, he went on to play with the likes of George Michael and Paul McCartney.

The sole original band member in the acclaimed folk-tinged progressive rock group, Magna Carta, was born in Harrogate.  Chris Simpson is a hugely talented songwriter for the band, which sold nine million albums and played in 60 different countries over their fifty-year career. 

So there you have it.  Harrogate is more than just a pretty place—it's full of stories, secrets, and surprises. At The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, we love helping our guests experience the real Harrogate—its beauty, charm, and oddball stories that make it truly one of a kind. After a day of exploring, come back to the comfort of your room, relax with a cup of Yorkshire tea, and smile at the things you never knew about this extraordinary town.

Ready to plan your stay? Get in touch and book your Harrogate escape today. You never know what you’ll uncover.

Harrogate is best known for its spa heritage, elegant architecture, and verdant gardens. But beyond its charming streets and boutique shops lies a wealth of National Trust properties that offer culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Staying at The Camberley, The Lodge or Camberley Cottages provides the perfect base from which to explore these local gems, whilst providing a tranquil base, close to fabulous local eateries, bars and stunning walks, providing you with a truly relaxing break. 
 
Our Yorkshire hospitality is second to none and after a day of exploring, you’ll appreciate returning to the calm of your comfortable room.  All our rooms are individually decorated and offer a range of different features. Check them out here and don’t forget, if you book direct with us, you can choose your room, subject to availability. 

Whether you are a National Trust member or not, Harrogate is well located to allow you to explore several National Trust properties, each with its own character and appeal.
 
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
Approximately 30 minutes by car

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this awe-inspiring estate combines the dramatic ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey with the elegant beauty of an 18th-century landscaped water garden. Wander through sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes, and classical follies. It’s a dream for photographers, walkers, and lovers of history alike. Look out for the resident deer and the gothic St Mary’s Church—a jewel in the landscape.  The café in the courtyard serves delicious coffee and cakes and there is ice cream on offer as well as a shop.  There are plenty of large car parks and for those of you who love to run, Fountains Abbey hosts Park Run every Saturday.  The course is stunning and if you are going for your alphabet and need an F, it’s the perfect option.   Find out more about the site here.
 
Brimham Rocks
 Approximately 25 minutes by car

This dramatic moorland site is home to a collection of bizarre and fascinating rock formations, sculpted over millennia by nature. Ideal for a refreshing outdoor adventure, Brimham Rocks is excellent for walkers, photographers, and anyone wanting to reconnect with the wild beauty of Yorkshire’s countryside. There’s a café for light bites and stunning views that make for a perfect day out. 

When they are in season, you can sometimes find wild bilberries (a relative of blueberries) on the moors around the rocks.  These native berries are smaller than blueberries and have red flesh, but are actually higher in antioxidants than the better-known blueberry.  They make a fabulous pie, either alone or with apples. 

You may also spot a Red Kite wheeling overhead.  There are quite a few of these majestic birds in the area.   Find out more here.  
 
Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens
Approximately. 40 minutes by car

This handsome baroque mansion near York boasts beautifully curated art collections (including works on loan from the National Portrait Gallery) and spectacular formal gardens. Wander through the orchard, explore the walled garden, or enjoy a refined lunch in the café. The hall regularly hosts exhibitions and events, making each visit unique.  Check out their website to find out what’s on when you are planning to visit. 
 
Nunnington Hall
Approximately 50 minutes by car

A picturesque manor house on the banks of the River Rye, Nunnington Hall is full of character, from its antique-filled rooms to the organic garden teeming with wildlife. Step into the quiet charm of a bygone era, and don’t miss the attic gallery, which often features local art exhibitions. It’s a peaceful, less-discovered treasure that’s well worth the visit. Find out what will be on when you are planning to visit… or plan your stay with us so you can take in your chosen exhibition.  Find out more about Nunnington Hall.
 
Savings and Perks with National Trust Membership
If you’re planning to visit two or more properties during your stay, National Trust membership quickly becomes excellent value. With free entry and parking at all National Trust sites, you could save upwards of £40 per couple on a short break alone—more if you include other attractions or plan additional trips throughout the year. Members also receive a beautifully illustrated handbook, seasonal magazine, and access to over 500 locations nationwide.
 
A holiday in Harrogate offers more than just sightseeing—it’s about unwinding in style. Picture mornings spent strolling through Harrogate’s Valley Gardens or soaking in the famous Turkish Baths, followed by afternoons exploring some of the finest heritage sites in Yorkshire. Whether you're admiring the romantic ruins of Fountains Abbey or enjoying afternoon tea back in town, every moment is steeped in charm and quiet pleasure.  The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages are all centrally located, allowing you to stroll out of the door and find everything you need within a short walk. 
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Book Your Stay Today
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply in need of a peaceful escape, Harrogate and its surrounding National Trust properties make for an unforgettable break. So book your room, pack your walking boots, and prepare to be captivated by Yorkshire’s timeless beauty and warm hospitality.  

In July, Harrogate will host one of the most prestigious events on the crime fiction calendar: the 2025 Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival.  Taking place between 17 and 20 July, the festival offers the opportunity for fans of crime fiction to engage with the authors they love, discover new authors and even try their hand at writing themselves.  

This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of guests.  Irvine Welsh will be making his festival debut, delving into Resolution, the final instalment of his 'Crime' trilogy, now adapted into a hit TV series starring Dougray Scott. 

Lee and Andrew Child, authors of the acclaimed Jack Reacher series will discuss their latest thriller, In Too Deep, and provide an exclusive preview of Exit Strategy, the 30th Reacher novel set for publication in November. 

Attica Locke will showcase her hard-hitting novel, Guide Me Home, offering a nuanced exploration of contemporary societal themes.  And Festival regular Val McDermid will be teaming up with TV presenter Steph McGovern, who will launch her debut novel, Deadline, at the event. 

Kate Atkinson fans will be thrilled to learn that she will be discussing her latest Jackson Brodie novel, At the Sign of the Rook, with Lee Child.  

Mark Billingham, Kate Mosse, and Paula Hawkins will also return to the festival, showcasing their latest bestsellers.   

In addition to talks, the festival also offers a wide range of other literary events, including Creative Thursday, during which aspiring writers can participate in a full day of creative writing workshops led by industry professionals, providing invaluable insights into the craft of crime writing. 

There will also be Panel Discussions in which contemporary issues in crime fiction are discussed. For those who love both reading and fine dining, the festival includes a number of Author Dinners, where your favourite authors discuss their work over dinner.  

Tickets for the various events do tend to sell out very quickly, so it is well worth booking early to avoid disappointment.  You can check out all the events, and book your tickets, here.

The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages are often busy during the Crime Writing Festival, which always attracts a lot of visitors to the town, so it’s definitely worthwhile booking your room with us as soon as you have purchased your tickets for the Festival events.   Booking direct with us will allow you to choose the room you prefer.  Whether you prefer the convenience of Bed and Breakfast or the flexibility of self-catering, here at The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, we have something for everyone.  

Attending the festival also presents the perfect opportunity to explore Harrogate, a town renowned for its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and rich history.  The festival venue, The Old Swan Hotel, is famously associated with Agatha Christie's mysterious disappearance in 1926 and is just a short walk from The Camberley.  

Following your Festival visit, why not stretch your legs in the nearby Valley Gardens, relax and unwind in the renowned Turkish Baths, or book afternoon tea at the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms, renowned for its delicious cakes and elegant setting?

Whatever you choose to do, The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages provide a comfortable base from which to explore.  Situated close to a range of restaurants and café-bars, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out, before returning to your comfortable room and a well-deserved rest after the excitement of the day.

Whether you're a devoted crime fiction aficionado or simply seeking a unique summer experience, staying at The Camberley,  The Lodge or Camberley Cottages in July offers the perfect setting for a relaxing break.  

Harrogate is a haven for garden lovers, offering a spectacular array of flower shows and open garden events throughout the year. In addition, Harrogate is a floral town.  The town centre boasts the 200-acre green space that is The Stray.  Spring sees stunning drifts of crocus and daffodils on the edges of the Stray, as well as the delightful Cherry Tree Walk which attracts visitors from all over the country.  Other highlights in the town include the Valley Gardens and the RHS Harlow Carr Gardens.  All of these treats are within walking distance of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages, making us the ideal place to stay when visiting the floral delights of Harrogate. 

Check out some of the highlights of the 2025 season and plan your trip to Harrogate today.
 
Harrogate Spring Flower Show 2025
The gardening season kicks off with the prestigious Harrogate Spring Flower Show, taking place from 24-27 April 2025 at the Great Yorkshire Showground. This event is a must-visit for both novice and experienced gardeners, and features stunning show gardens, alongside live talks and demonstrations.  And, of course, a great range of shopping opportunities too.  The show also includes the country’s largest exhibition of florists and flower arrangers.

Early bird tickets are available until 8 April 2025 at £23 per adult. From 9 April, tickets will be £28 per adult. Children under 16 enter free with a paying adult.
For tickets and more information, visit www.flowershow.org.uk  or call 01423 648212.

Handy Tip:  Use the shuttle bus service from Harrogate town centre to the Spring Flower Show to enjoy scenic views of The Stray.
 
Harrogate Autumn Flower Show 2025
As summer fades, the horticultural calendar blooms again with the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show. Set in the picturesque grounds of Newby Hall near Ripon, just a short drive from Harrogate, this show runs from 19-21 September 2025, showcasing the very best of horticulture with some of the UK’s leading plant nurseries in attendance as well as impressive displays of fruit and vegetables.  Of course, plenty of advice will be available so whether you are a novice gardener or experienced, there will be something for everyone. 

Adult tickets are available at a £5 discount when purchased in advance. Newby Hall season ticket holders can enjoy special admission rates of £14 for adults, with children under 16 entering free with a paying adult.

For tickets and further details, visit the Harrogate Flower Show website.  www.flowershow.org.uk

And of course, Harrogate's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other Yorkshire gardens and attractions including the stunning Thorp Perrow Arboretum. 
 
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Home of one of the UK’s finest collections of trees, including five National Plant Collections, and a leading centre for raptor conservation, Thorp Perrow is beautiful at any time of year but is particularly stunning in Autumn when the trees are changing colour. 

Also home to a Mammal Centre where you can hand feed the wallabies, and a Bird of Prey centre.  The tea rooms are lovely and for those of you who like to stay active, there is a Park Run at Thorp Perrow on Saturdays.  Although beautiful, this course is very muddy during the winter and you need to tie your running shoes very securely if you’d like to keep them on your feet.    It is a single loop run and although  it does not pass through the arboretum itself, it is an attractive run. The tea rooms open to allow runners to refuel after their exertions too.

Find out more about the Arboretum and the range of events and activities here:  https://www.thorpperrow.com/
 
After a day spent outdoors admiring nature, you can return to our comfortable rooms to relax before heading out to one of the many restaurants in Harrogate.  Most are within walking distance of The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages and offer the option of most types of cuisine.  To plan your dining experience, check out our blogs on the subject here and here, or ask us for a recommendation.  We are always happy to advise you, whether you are looking for a small and intimate establishment for a romantic evening together, or a more lively environment for a relaxed meal with friends, Harrogate has it all. 

Plan your stay around these horticultural events and discover why Harrogate is a true paradise for garden lovers. With its rich gardening heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm Yorkshire hospitality, Harrogate is the perfect destination for your next blooming adventure and The Camberley, The Lodge and Camberley Cottages are the perfect base from which to explore everything that Harrogate has to offer. 

Don’t forget, if you book direct, you can choose your room, subject to availability.  With all the rooms individually decorated, you are sure to find one you love.