A charming spa town, less than two hours from Hull, has been recognised for its warm charm, hospitality, independent shops, Victorian architecture and famous tea heritage
This pretty UK town has been named as the ‘most welcoming’(Image: Getty Images)
Across the UK, there are many picturesque towns perfect for a day trip, whether you fancy wandering beside winding rivers or discovering cobbled lanes flanked by medieval buildings. However, one destination, less than two hours from Hull, has been crowned the ‘most welcoming town’ in the country, boasting a warmth and charm that’s hard to match elsewhere.
Harrogate, situated in North Yorkshire, is a Victorian spa town renowned for its mineral springs, The Stray park’s 200 acres of green space, intimate tearooms, independent shops, and, notably, being the birthplace of Yorkshire Tea. Frequently praised as one of the happiest places to reside, it has once more claimed the title of Britain’s most welcoming town.
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Due to its inviting and genial ambience, excellent hospitality, and high number of returning guests, Harrogate earned the distinction of the UK’s most welcoming location in Booking.com’s 2026 Traveller Review Awards. Its tea-making tradition and delightful tearooms are believed to have contributed to this accolade, with a quarter of Brits linking a trip to the Yorkshire town with a comforting cup of tea.
From a soothing brew in one of the town’s tearooms, cafés, hotels, or even public houses, Harrogate’s heritage cannot be overlooked, as it’s where the black tea blend of Yorkshire Tea has been manufactured by the Bettys and Taylors Group since 1977. The town is also home to the wonderful Bettys Café Tea Room, serving afternoon tea in the imperial room with freshly baked scones and, naturally, their signature tea.
But that’s not the only tearoom in this town. There’s also Jenny’s Tea Shop, Mama Doreen’s Emporium, and another Bettys Café Tea Room, just on the outskirts of the town, reports the Mirror.
Yet, beyond its brews, the streets are filled with boutiques, with Montpellier Quarter home to more than 50 independent shops, bars, restaurants, antique shops, and art galleries. There’s also Cold Bath Road, which features additional eateries and shops, all whilst celebrating the town’s spa heritage.
Harrogate is recognised as the ‘English Spa’ due to its mineral springs, which were discovered in the 16th century. It rapidly became renowned as a wellness destination, thanks to its open green spaces, spa treatments, fresh air, and celebrated waters.
Today, there are original Turkish Baths for a soothing treatment and the Royal Pump Room Museum for a deeper insight into the town’s spa heritage. Harrogate has maintained its reputation as a spa town and continues to draw visitors looking to escape the pressures of everyday life.
The town is distinguished by Victorian and Georgian buildings, some of which form its array of hotels, and there are numerous B&Bs available in the area. That’s when you can pull yourself away from the abundant green spaces, with its location on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a paradise for keen walkers.
Boasting vast expanses of unspoilt countryside, Harrogate is renowned for its stunning parks and peaceful gardens, offering picturesque walks throughout the summer season. Among its most frequented attractions, drawing approximately three million visitors annually, is the Grade II-listed Valley Gardens, which features numerous areas to explore.
Whether you’re seeking a break from urban life or a short getaway, Harrogate might prove to be the perfect destination. Additionally, it’s situated just over 20 minutes by train from Leeds and 30 minutes from York, adding to its accessibility.
Ryan Pearson, regional manager for the UK and Ireland at Booking.com, said: “Booking.com’s Traveller Review Awards celebrate destinations that consistently deliver exceptional hospitality, and Harrogate has earned recognition as one of the UK’s most welcoming towns for this specific reason.
“Guests frequently praise the town’s friendly, attentive hosts and genuinely warm atmosphere, which makes visitors feel instantly at home. While Harrogate charms with its historic spa buildings, elegant streets, and beautiful surrounding countryside, it’s the town’s authentic, personable hospitality that inspires repeat visits and rave recommendations from travellers.”
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