The Balmoral Hotel
Harrogate, United Kingdom[view map]
Comments from members who've stayed at The Balmoral Hotel
The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth: the only people who can contribute to a hotel Guestbook are Smith members who have just stayed there, so everything you read below is honest-to-goodness fact. We even credit members’ Vault accounts with cash for each comment we publish. To learn more about membership, click here.
Whilst the hotel was absolutely lovely, there was plenty to do out and about in the town so we took advantage! Everyone you speak to will tell you to go to Betty's Tea Rooms at 1 Parliament Street (+44 (0)1423 502746) take their advice, its huge and beautiful inside and a great pitstop. Another must is the Victoria Gardens in the centre of town, these were gorgeous and the size of some of the plants had to be seen to be believed!! Lunchtime advice would be that quite a few of the lovely little restaurants tend to stop serving at 2/2.30 so late lunch isn't an option! Final tip, as we'd driven we thought we'd make use of the car boot and purchase a few things for the flat - can't rave enough about the most beautiful interior design shop in the town centre called Caroline Gardner at 8 Montpellier Parade (+44 (0)1423 568034). Enjoy!
Indulge in some delicious but pricey tea and sweet nibbles in the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms. A little further afield from Harrogate take a drive to Knaresborough, a pretty little village with lots to see and do, from learning all about England's first prophetess, to soaking up the amazing views from the Castle ruins, sampling all the delicious ice cream parlours and tea rooms, then burning all the calories off with a trip along the river in a rowing boat. A great way to spend an afternoon.
The Balmoral Hotel was lovely, niche and personal. Decor very contempoary and the room was fab, particularly the four-poster bed and the roll-top bath. The service was excellent – especially Louise on reception who could not do enough for us. Food was very enjoyable – a great stay and I will return for more!
For delicious food presented in stylish but relaxed surroundings, try Quantro on Royal Parade. Quantro provides a great menu that changes regularly and the fantastic 'menu Qu' is great value with three courses for less than £15. We have eaten there on many occasions and have yet to be less than delighted with the food and service.
We ate at Est Est Est, a minute's walk from the lovely Balmoral Hotel. Great atmosphere, attentive service and the food was delicious....but VERY small portions! Pasta with prawns was starter-sized so I had to share my main, a pity because everything else was perfect.
As a previous resident of Harrogate we already knew of the wonderful Rajput restaurant (7–11 Cheltenham Parade) and as always enjoyed a fabulous meal there. The food is second to none and the lively yet not intrusive atmosphere complements the food perfectly. Arrive before 9.30pm if you don't want to wait for a table.
