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Harrogate Bid

Harrogate Bid

Harrogate Bid

Harrogate BID Appoints Praul Evans as Business Crime Officer

Harrogate BID has strengthened its commitment to supporting town centre businesses with the appointment of Paul Evans as its new Business Crime Officer.

Paul joins the BID team following a distinguished 30-year career with North Yorkshire Police, bringing a wealth of experience in community safety, crime prevention and partnership working.

In his new role, he will work closely with BID members, North Yorkshire Police and local partners to help tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and other issues affecting businesses across Harrogate town centre.

Paul Evans, Business Crime Officer at Harrogate BID, said:’m delighted to be joining Harrogate BID and I’m looking forward to working closely with businesses across the town centre.

“Having spent 30 years with North Yorkshire Police, I understand the importance of strong relationships between businesses, local organisations and policing teams. Working together and sharing information is key to preventing crime and tackling the issues that matter most to our community.

“Harrogate is a fantastic town with an incredible business community, and I’m excited to use my experience to support BID members, listen to their concerns and help ensure the town centre remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”

Jason Maxwell, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, welcomed the appointment, highlighting the valuable expertise Paul brings to the organisation.

He said:We’re delighted to welcome Paul to the Harrogate BID team.

“With 30 years of experience in North Yorkshire Police, Paul brings a huge amount of knowledge and expertise that will directly benefit our members.

“Supporting businesses and helping create a safe and welcoming town centre is a key priority for the BID, and Paul’s appointment will allow us to further strengthen the work we do alongside our partners.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact he will have across Harrogate.”

Paul’s appointment builds on the ongoing partnership work between Harrogate BID, North Yorkshire Police and local organisations aimed at better understanding and addressing the challenges facing businesses.

Businesses are encouraged to contact Harrogate BID to discuss concerns, report issues and learn more about the support and initiatives available to help keep Harrogate town centre safe, welcoming and thriving.

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Great Yorkshire ShowHarrogate BID To Bring A Taste Of The Town Centre To The Great Yorkshire Show

Harrogate BID is set to showcase the very best of the town centre at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show, creating a mini version of Harrogate’s high street at one of Yorkshire’s biggest events.

The Business Improvement District (BID) will once again attend the show, delivering a dedicated Harrogate-themed area designed to highlight the town’s outstanding retail, hospitality, leisure, education and visitor attractions.

Taking place at the Great Yorkshire Showground from Tuesday 14 to Friday 17 July, the event attracts around 140,000 visitors each year from across the UK, providing a major platform to promote Harrogate as a leading destination.

This year’s concept will bring together a diverse mix of businesses and organisations, offering visitors a snapshot of the town centre experience and showcasing the breadth of what Harrogate has to offer.

Among those taking part are Starling, Your Harrogate, Yorkshire Cancer Research, Duchy College, Slingsby Gin, Stump Cross Caverns, Ake & Humphris, Mama Doreen’s, Harrogate College, Verity Frearson, The Majestic Hotel, Skipton Building Society, Hempwell, the Turkish Baths and The Crown Hotel.

From independent retailers and visitor attractions to hospitality venues, educational institutions and heritage organisations, the showcase will reflect the quality, character and diversity that make Harrogate one of Yorkshire’s most popular destinations.

Jason Maxwell, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, said:

The Great Yorkshire Show provides an incredible opportunity to put Harrogate in front of a huge audience and showcase everything that makes our town special. This year, we’re delighted to be working closely with the Great Yorkshire Show to create a mini Harrogate high street, bringing together some of the fantastic businesses and organisations that help shape the town’s identity. We want to encourage visitors to experience Harrogate beyond the Showground — whether that’s enjoying food and drink in the town centre after the show, planning a future visit, discovering our independent businesses or exploring our many attractions.

Increasing footfall, supporting local businesses and promoting Harrogate as a leading destination are central to the BID’s objectives, and this is a fantastic opportunity to champion the town on a major stage.”

Rachel Coates, Show Director of the Great Yorkshire Show, added The Great Yorkshire Show has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors to Harrogate since moving to its permanent home at the Great Yorkshire Showground in 1951. We are delighted to welcome Harrogate BID back to the show in a bigger and better way than ever before, helping to showcase the outstanding retail, leisure and hospitality offer that makes Harrogate such a vibrant place to visit.”

Businesses and events held at the Great Yorkshire Showground contribute an estimated £73.7 million to the local economy each year.

Harrogate BID’s presence at the event supports its A Vibrant Town objective, outlined in its Business Plan, which focuses on delivering campaigns, events and initiatives that attract visitors and support economic growth across the town centre.

Further details about Harrogate BID’s activities at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show will be announced in the coming weeks.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Great Yorkshire Show are available to purchase in advance only, with prices frozen at last year’s rates:

  • Adults: £36.50
  • Children: £13
  • Family Ticket: £89

Farmer tickets are also available, offering additional flexibility for those working in agriculture. These tickets can be used on any day of the show and are available exclusively to members of the farming community, with prices also frozen from last year.

Free shuttle buses operated by The Harrogate Bus Company will run throughout the event, departing every 10 minutes from Harrogate Bus Station, adjacent to the railway station, to the Showground’s White Gate. Services begin at 7.20am, with the final return bus leaving the showground at 7pm.

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BLOOM

Harrogate set to bloom as popular floral trail returns this summer

Colourful floral displays, hidden surprises and stunning photo opportunities will soon be popping up across Harrogate town centre as a much-loved summer attraction makes its return.

Harrogate BID has confirmed that its popular Floral Summer of Celebration will be back from 3 July, transforming the town centre with eye-catching installations for three weeks.

This year’s trail is particularly special as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of Harrogate International Festivals, combining the town’s famous floral heritage with six decades of arts, culture and entertainment.

A trail designed to be explored

Residents and visitors will be encouraged to wander through Harrogate’s streets, discover unique floral displays and explore the town’s independent shops, cafés, restaurants and businesses along the way.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect summer photo, a family day out or simply an excuse to spend time in one of Yorkshire’s most attractive towns, the Floral Summer of Celebration promises plenty to discover around every corner.

Full details of this year’s theme and display locations are still under wraps, but organisers say visitors can expect a colourful celebration that showcases everything Harrogate is known for.

Building on award-winning success

The floral trail has become one of the highlights of Harrogate’s summer calendar.

Not only does it bring colour and life to the town centre, it also helps attract visitors and support local businesses during one of the busiest times of the year.

The displays have earned widespread recognition through the Yorkshire in Bloom Awards, where Harrogate BID has previously secured Gold awards and praise for creating a welcoming and distinctive experience in the heart of the town.

Once again, the team will be aiming for top honours in 2026.

Celebrating everything that makes Harrogate special

Jason Maxwell, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, said:

“We’re delighted to bring back the Floral Summer of Celebration for another year and to be working in partnership with Harrogate International Festivals as they celebrate their 60th anniversary.

“Harrogate has a fantastic floral heritage, and this event is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the town, attract visitors and create something memorable for everyone to enjoy.”

Bethany Allen, Operations Manager at Harrogate BID, said the event continues to receive a fantastic response from businesses, residents and visitors alike.

She added:

“We are proud of the success the trail has achieved in Yorkshire in Bloom over recent years, and we’re excited to build on that as we aim for Gold once again in 2026.

“The collaboration between businesses, organisations and floral partners across Harrogate is what makes initiatives like this possible, and we can’t wait to reveal what’s planned for this year’s displays.”

Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce is once again sponsoring the initiative.

Chief Executive Martin Mann said the floral trail provides a valuable boost to the town centre while helping showcase Harrogate at its very best during the summer months.

Meanwhile, Harrogate International Festivals Chief Executive Sharon Canavar said the partnership is a fitting way to celebrate the organisation’s milestone 60th anniversary.

“The town’s floral heritage is recognised far and wide, and combining that with a programme of arts and entertainment will create a vibrant atmosphere for residents, businesses and visitors alike,” she said.

What happens next?

Harrogate BID will reveal this year’s theme, display locations and special installations over the coming weeks.

Until then, visitors can look forward to seeing the town centre bloom once again when the Floral Summer of Celebration returns on 3 July.

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DOG SHOWHarrogate Dog Show returns next month with cutest pups, fun classes and dog market

The much-loved Harrogate Dog Show is set to return next month, bringing adorable pups, proud pooches and a packed programme of family-friendly fun to the town centre.

Organised by Harrogate BID in association with Your Harrogate Radio and the Victoria Shopping Centre, the popular event will take place on Saturday, April 11 in the centre’s piazza.

Now in its sixth year, the dog show has become a firm favourite in Harrogate’s events calendar, attracting dog owners, families and visitors for a day celebrating the town’s four-legged companions.

Seven fun categories will be featured this year, giving dogs of all shapes and sizes a chance to shine. Popular classes include Cutest Puppy, Handsomest Dog, Best Purebred, Best Crossbreed, Fanciest Female, and the crowd-pleasing Dog the Judge Would Most Like to Take Home.

Registration for the competition opens at 10am, with judging beginning at 11am. Entries will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited places available in each category.

Alongside the show, visitors can explore a dog-themed market on Cambridge Street, organised by Real Markets. Stalls will offer a range of treats, accessories and gifts for dogs and their owners.

Bethany Allen, Operations Manager at Harrogate BID, said the team is looking forward to welcoming the event back to the town centre.

She said the show has become “a firm favourite in Harrogate’s events calendar” and offers a fantastic day out for families, dog owners and visitors alike.

With plenty of wagging tails, adorable pups and friendly competition expected, the Harrogate Dog Show promises another lively celebration for dog lovers across the region.

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RESTAURANT WEEKHarrogate Restaurant Week Returns in February 2026

Harrogate Restaurant Week is set to return from Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd February 2026, with the full support of Harrogate BID.

The popular food and drink event will see restaurants, cafés, pubs and bars across Harrogate and the surrounding area offering set-price menus at £10, £15, £20, £25 and £30. The week gives both residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy great-value dining while discovering the town’s diverse hospitality scene.

Celebrating Harrogate’s Food and Drink Scene

Harrogate Restaurant Week is designed to showcase the quality, variety and creativity of local hospitality businesses. The campaign helps venues attract new customers, increase footfall and encourage repeat visits during a traditionally quieter trading period.

Diners will be able to:

  • Browse participating venues and offers online

  • Contact restaurants directly to book

  • Quote “Restaurant Week” when making a reservation

Support from Harrogate BID

Bethany Allen, Operations and Projects Executive at Harrogate BID, said:

*“We are delighted to be partnering with Your Harrogate for this year’s Harrogate Restaurant Week.

This fantastic campaign shines a spotlight on our brilliant hospitality sector, while also driving footfall and spend in the town at a time when businesses continue to face challenging trading conditions.

We would encourage all BID members to get involved and sign up.”*

Flexible Offers for Participating Venues

Participating businesses can select from a range of price points and tailor their offers to suit their operation. Options may include set lunch menus, evening dining deals or special tasting experiences, giving venues full flexibility while remaining part of the wider campaign.

How Businesses Can Take Part

Hospitality businesses wishing to participate can register via the online sign-up form hosted by Your Harrogate. Registrations are open until Friday 13th February 2026.

Offers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to individual venue terms and availability. Diners are advised to review offer details carefully before booking.

Further updates, participating venue announcements and booking information will be shared across Harrogate BID’s social media channels in the lead-up to the event.

For the latest news and information, follow Harrogate BID on Facebook.

 

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SELF CARE WEEKDiscover What’s Right for You at Harrogate Self Care Week 2026

Whether you’re looking to slow down, recharge, or try something completely new, Harrogate Self Care Week 2026 has been designed so you can dip in, explore, and create your own wellbeing journey.

Delivered by Harrogate BID, the third annual Self Care Week runs from Monday 2 – Sunday 8 February 2026, bringing together trusted local experts, iconic venues and welcoming sessions for all ages and abilities.

Choose Your Wellbeing Style

✨ Curious & Calm

Perfect if you want gentle introductions and relaxing experiences

  • Acupuncture talk

  • Guided breathwork

  • Yin yoga

  • Reiki

  • Forest bathing talk

Uplifting & Energising

Ideal for boosting mood and movement

  • Dancing for Well-Being

  • Pilates

  • Qi Gong

  • Hot yoga at the Turkish Baths

Family-Friendly

Accessible sessions to enjoy together

  • Children’s Yoga & Sound Bath (two dates)

Skincare & Self-Development

Learn something new and take it home with you

  • Lush Skintroduction workshops

  • Skin Microbiome workshops

  • Gua Sha & self-development session

Iconic Harrogate Venues

For the first time, West Park Hotel will act as the main hub for the week, hosting a wide range of sessions in a relaxed, central setting.

Other venues include:

  • Turkish Baths – introducing hot yoga and a hot sound bath

  • Lush – interactive skincare workshops

  • Go Yoga – Sunday wind-down session

Highlights by Day

Monday – Set the tone
Acupuncture talk • Skintroduction • Hot yoga & hot sound bath

Tuesday – Breathe, move, smile
Breathwork • Children’s Yoga & Sound Bath • Dancing for Well-Being

Wednesday – Restore & reflect
Yin yoga • Gua Sha workshop • Forest bathing talk

Thursday – Reset
Reiki • Skin Microbiome workshop

Friday – Strength & flow
Pilates • Qi Gong • Final Skintroduction

Saturday – Family wellbeing
Children’s Yoga & Sound Bath

Sunday – Gentle finish
Stretch & Soothe with Harrogate Bee Social

Why Take Part?

Bethany Allen, Operations Manager at Harrogate BID, explainsSelf Care Week is about celebrating what Harrogate does best, while encouraging people to try something new. With new experiences like hot yoga and sound bathing, this year’s programme offers something truly special.”

How to Get Involved

  • All sessions are free

  • Advance booking required (places are limited)

  • Full programme and booking links will be shared via Harrogate BID’s website and social channels

📧 Interested in future events or collaborations?
Contact Harrogate BID at info@harrogatebid.co.uk

Dip into one session or explore the full week — Harrogate Self Care Week 2026 is designed around you.

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Harrogate Bid Who are we?

Since the legislation was introduced in the UK in 2004, more than 300 Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have been developed in towns, cities and business parks across the UK with a total investment exceeding £100m annually

Harrogate Business Improvement District was formed on 1st January 2019. Harrogate BID are have had a successful ballot result and the second term  the BID will run from 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2028.

Harrogate has fantastic assets, but it not immune to the general challenges high streets across the UK face, whether it is a pandemic or a cost-of-living crisis. The work of the BID aims to support, safeguard and improve Harrogate for businesses, visitors and residents alike, to make the town the best it can be.

Harrogate BID’s Vision is:

To maximise Harrogate as a destination and empower local businesses to tackle local issues. Through three main aims:

  • Maintaining and developing a diverse and interesting offer whilst providing a quality environment, where people can access the town centre easily and efficiently.
  • Increasing footfall, spend and dwell time in the town centre by enhancing Harrogate’s profile as a destination both for people to use and others to visit as well as businesses to work and invest in.
  • Embracing its invaluable heritage and position, and combining it with technological innovations to remain ahead of competition in user choice, experience and offer.