7 Tips for Living in Harrogate
Summary: Advice for people moving to Harrogate or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Harrogate or thinking about moving there.
Harrogate, a charming spa town in North Yorkshire, UK, is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. With its beautiful parks, historic buildings, and vibrant food scene, it offers a unique blend of tranquility and excitement. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in Harrogate.
1. Explore the Neighborhoods
Harrogate is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. The town centre is bustling with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Montpellier Quarter is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and the famous Bettys Tea Rooms. For a quieter, more residential feel, head to the leafy streets of Duchy estate. Each neighborhood offers a different slice of Harrogate life, so take the time to explore and find your favorite.
2. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Harrogate boasts a vibrant food scene, with a wide range of restaurants catering to all tastes. For a taste of local Yorkshire cuisine, head to The Fat Badger, a traditional pub serving hearty British fare. If you're in the mood for something more exotic, Sukhothai offers delicious Thai food in a stylish setting. And don't forget to visit Bettys Tea Rooms for their world-famous afternoon tea. With so many options, you'll never run out of new places to try.
3. Take Advantage of the Great Outdoors
Harrogate is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great base for outdoor activities. The Stray, a 200-acre park in the heart of the town, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. For a more challenging hike, head to the nearby Yorkshire Dales National Park. And don't miss the chance to visit Harlow Carr, a stunning RHS garden with a variety of plant species and beautiful landscapes.
4. Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture
Harrogate has a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Royal Pump Room Museum to learn about the town's spa history, or catch a play at the Harrogate Theatre. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, from the Harrogate Film Festival to the Harrogate International Festivals, offering a range of music, literature, and arts events.
5. Make Use of Co-Working Spaces
As a digital nomad, finding a good place to work is essential. Harrogate has several co-working spaces that offer a comfortable environment and all the amenities you need. Spaces such as Harrogate Lifestyle & Business Centre and Indieworx Collective offer flexible memberships, high-speed internet, and plenty of networking opportunities.
6. Get Involved in the Community
One of the best ways to feel at home in a new place is to get involved in the community. Harrogate has a friendly and welcoming community, and there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer, join local clubs, or participate in community events. Do some research to find groups or activities that align with your interests, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
7. Learn the Local Customs
Every place has its own customs and traditions, and Harrogate is no exception. From the proper way to brew a cup of Yorkshire tea to the local dialect, taking the time to learn about these customs can help you feel more at home. It's also a great way to show respect for your new community and make a positive impression.
Living in Harrogate as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By exploring the neighborhoods, enjoying the local cuisine, taking advantage of the great outdoors, immersing yourself in the local culture, making use of co-working spaces, getting involved in the community, and learning the local customs, you can make the most of your time in this charming spa town.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.