Harrogate Convention Centre
Harrogate Convention Centre
Click for the Harrogate Theatre
The Centre has been designed with you in mind. We have evolved over almost 200 years, combining our stunning heritage with contemporary, adaptable spaces that transform to suit your needs.
Click Here to See What’s On at Harrogate Convention Centre
Always check and confirm details as they can change – Phone: 01423 500500
Giving Back: How HCC helps Yorkshire Air Ambulance save lives
Discover how HCC supports Yorkshire Air Ambulance via event-based fundraising, showcasing its commitment to ESG and community impact.
Surge in medical conferences highlights Harrogate’s growing appeal as unique conference destination
Medical conferences held at Harrogate Convention Centre in 2024/25 topped the past decade and more than doubled that of the previous year.
MARTYN’S LAW: Essential Resources for Venues and Event Organisers
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, aka Martyn’s Law, is now written into law. Are you ready to keep your events safe?
MEET THE TEAM: Darren Peters, Sales Account Manager
Get to know Darren Peters, Sales Account Manager who looks after the public sector at HCC.
Exciting plans for a transformative £7 million investment in the Harrogate Convention Centre have been unveiled, signaling a major boost for one of North Yorkshire’s premier event venues. North Yorkshire Council’s ambitious proposals aim to modernize the facility, enhance its appeal, and secure its position as a vital economic driver for the region.
Central to the plans is the creation of larger breakout rooms in Studio Two, which would enable the venue to host up to 1,300 delegates for breakout conferencing. This upgrade is projected to generate an additional £1.5 million in annual revenue, enhancing the centre’s capacity to attract high-profile events.
The proposals are part of a broader strategy to refine the centre’s offerings, develop a robust business plan, and explore new funding opportunities. Built in 1982, the Harrogate Convention Centre already boasts one of the UK’s largest purpose-built auditoriums, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier event destination.
Strategic Vision for Harrogate
Cllr Gareth Dadd, Deputy Leader of North Yorkshire Council and finance portfolio holder, highlighted the dual importance of preserving the centre’s economic contributions while optimizing financial efficiency:
“The Harrogate Convention Centre showcases the town and Yorkshire on a national stage, attracting visitors from across the country. It is essential that we preserve the centre’s economic benefits while identifying ways to reduce our subsidy, enhance its facilities, and align the centre with Harrogate’s long-term vision. These proposals will be carefully considered during the executive’s meeting to ensure we strike a balance between protecting taxpayers’ money and promoting the local economy.”
The council has already made strides to improve the centre’s financial performance, reducing the annual subsidy from £2.6 million to £1.9 million through measures such as in-house catering and increased venue lettings.
A New Era for the Centre
Paula Lorimer, Director of the Harrogate Convention Centre, praised the proposed upgrades, particularly the focus on enhancing Studio Two:
“The proposed enhancements to Stu Centre.”
The plans underline Harrogate’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge as an event destination while supporting the local economy. The convention centre plays a pivotal role in driving footfall to the town, benefiting businesses across the hospitality and retail sectors.
With these upgrades, the Centre is poised to strengthen its legacy as a cornerstone of North Yorkshire’s economic and cultural landscape.
………………………………………………………………..
