York Road
This may be Yorkshire but today the sun is definitely shining. This feels especially delightful when we're sat in a double-height dining room with the sunlight streaming in through original Victorian stained-glass windows behind us.
This is what you can expect from a stay in one of Damian Lawrance’s serviced apartments on York Road. Maybe not the constant sunshine, but definitely kitchens kitted out in style, luxurious lounges with hi-tech entertainment and beds that you’ll never want to get out of.
Just a few minutes out of the town centre, you could be mistaken for thinking you’re out in the country somewhere. The road is regal and wide with quiet kerbs and real, actual wildlife foraging in the foliage. If peace and quiet is what you’re after, this could be your perfect match.
It’s not far to the Royal Pump Rooms. Here, we're presented with some sulphurous water by a young boy who enjoys eagerly offering up thimbles of this foul-smelling stuff to unsuspecting tourists. The Victorians apparently came to Harrogate to drink pint-loads of this woeful water as a way of fighting off ill-health. The only thing I leave fighting off is a mild urge to force-feed the boy the full contents of his vile jug. But that would be a little mean. Even Harrogate natives will tell you never to drink more than a sip.
With an unsettled and eggy tummy, we seek refuge back in the comforting surroundings of York Road. The pocket-sprung bed and its excess of Egyptian cotton is calling. But not before a quick wander around the boutique-lined streets of the cobbled Montpellier quarter. A few vintage purchases later and our unfortunate earlier encounter with sulphur is just about forgotten.
Harrogate is still a place for remedies. Shop in the antique boutiques, unwind in the Turkish Baths and be pampered in one of the spas. Just thank goodness we have a different idea when it comes to therapy than the Victorians. And keep away from that water.
Reviewed by Caroline Lewis
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Smith extra at York Road
A Jakes Patisserie breakfast hamper
