Harrogate 250 Partnership - Workshop 1

The workshop held at the Bramall Centre, RHS Harlow Carr

There’s a growing conversation in Harrogate—one that’s been a long time coming. Could this town, known for its rich spa heritage, reclaim its identity in a way that feels relevant today? Could it move beyond nostalgia and become a place where water, wellbeing, and nature are once again central to its future?

These were the questions at the heart of “Growing the 21st Century Spa Town,” a recent workshop that brought together over 30 key players—from North Yorkshire Council and the Environment Agency to Yorkshire Water, Leeds University, and local environmental groups.

More than just a discussion, it felt like the start of something bigger.

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A town built on water

Harrogate’s history has always been shaped by its springs. With the highest concentration of mineral wells in such close proximity anywhere in the world, it once ranked among Europe’s great spa destinations. People came not just for the treatments, but for the entire experience—the grand bathhouses, the landscaped promenades, the concerts, and the fresh air.

But somewhere along the way, that identity faded. The mineral wells are still there, but they’ve slipped into the background. The underground rivers still flow, but they’re largely forgotten. And while Harrogate remains a beautiful town, its connection to the waters that made it famous isn’t as visible—or as valued—as it once was.

At the workshop, George Eglese described the town’s springs as “a wonder of the world hidden right beneath our feet”, while Sarah Lonsdale from the Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust spoke about the wider environmental picture:

“Harrogate’s becks, including the hidden underground river network flowing beneath the town, are integral to its future. In good condition, they have amazing potential to support local people and wildlife. Yet unfortunately, Yorkshire has lost over 80% of its wetlands, along with all the ecosystem services they provide.”

This isn’t just about water quality or ecology—it’s about reconnecting the town with its own story.

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The landmark workshop brought together key players from across the district

A new vision for a spa town

Discussions at the workshop revolved around four key themes:

• Protected Water – Bringing Harrogate’s mineral springs, becks, and hidden waterways back into public life.

• Abundant Nature – Restoring lost habitats and rewilding urban green spaces to enhance biodiversity and wellbeing.

• Vibrant Heritage – Using Harrogate’s spa legacy as a platform for the future, not just a relic of the past.

• Thriving Community – Ensuring this is about more than tourism, but something that benefits local people first.

What became clear was that there’s real appetite for this—not just among heritage and environmental groups, but across different sectors. People want Harrogate to have a stronger sense of identity, one that isn’t just about shopping and convention centres, but something deeper, more meaningful.

“Harrogate has the potential to once again be a world-class spa town,” George said. “But this isn’t about looking backwards. It’s about creating a place that truly embraces its natural and cultural assets—where water, wellbeing, and nature are at the heart of everyday life.”

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Arx Celebris Fontibus - 'A citadel famous for its springs'

What happens next?

By the end of the session, a new working group had formed. There was a shared recognition that this is the right time to be having this conversation. With the launch of the Harrogate Neighbourhood Planning Forum, the introduction of the new North Yorkshire Mayor, and the upcoming formation of Harrogate Town Council, the opportunity to influence the town’s future has never been greater.

The group will work to develop the high-level ambitions into achievable initiatives that they can generate further discussion around and seek funding to deliver.

As Sarah put it:

“This is a pivotal moment for Harrogate. We have a golden opportunity to be visionary and rally the community together. It’s time to bring everyone around the table—residents, businesses, and local leaders—to reimagine what our town can be.”

The big question isn’t whether Harrogate could be a 21st Century Spa Town.

It’s whether it’s ready to take the next step.