December 2nd 2020

December 2nd has arrived! The shops are open, so are the bars, restaurants and Escape Rooms.  The Christmas lights have been switched on, they are a wonderful way of lighting up this dark time of the year.  The shops have pulled out all the stops and have been decorating their frontages - there is an annual competition. Who do you judge should be the winner?  Social distancing is no problem in Harrogate - our town was designed for large crowds, so Harrogate has extra wide pavements.  The council has been busy ensuring your safety.  The car parks are functioning and the shop opening hours have been extended to 8am to 10pm across the borough - so no need for queues.

The Stray, as always affords a great space for exercise, whether walking the dog, going for a run or just a stroll on a bright sunny morning.  The Grade 2 Valley Gardens are as resplendent as ever - the coffee shop is open - there is nothing nicer than sitting on one of the benches sipping coffee and admiring the view.  If you are in need of exercise and enjoy gardens you can walk through the Valley Gardens into the Pine Woods and up hill to the RHS Gardens at Harlow Carr.  (You will need to book for the RHS) So no need for a car - everything is accessible from the town centre.

The buses and trains are all running.  Check the timetables for schedules.  There are direct trains from London Kings Cross.

National Trust properties are open, but you need to book.  Harewood House and Ripley Castle are also open and bookable.  They are easily reached via the 36 bus or car,  and in the case of Ripley Castle there is a footpath from the centre of Harrogate.

Should you tire of the gardens, shops, lights and bars, the restaurants are open.  You can also explore further afield but that's for another day....