RHS Harlow Carr is the perfect spot for a day out, and there’s always something for the whole family to enjoy. Its one place where I can take Izzy and my grandparents and know that everyone will be happy!
It’s not the cheapest place to get into but it is definitely a good, wholesome family day out in Harrogate. For a lot of years I have bought the membership as this is the best value way to enjoy the gardens all year round.
There are 4 play areas dotted around the gardens and most are in the wooded areas so it provides shade during the warmer months but its somewhere to visit any time of year, just make sure you pack some wellies if its been raining. There are toilets at the entrance and near the ‘Little Betty’s’ coffee shop and most of the grounds are pushchair friendly although it can get a little bumpy on some of the paths.
There is Betty’s on site which has a cafe and a shop that does take-away drinks, savouries and sweet treats, plus there is a smaller Betty’s in the gardens itself with plenty of outdoor seating, serving a smaller menu and ice creams. Top tip: Don’t discount the brown bread ice cream….try it!
During school holidays there are always activities on for the kids, most recently; ‘Under your feet’ learning about soil and the creepy crawlies that call it home, at Easter there is always an Easter egg hunt with a trail of things to spot around the garden and this May half term there is ‘The power of superbees’ which takes a look into the secret life of bees and why they are so special. Keep an eye out around Christmas time too as there is always a ‘sell out’ Santa experience which is not to be missed.
Postcode: Crag Lane, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate, HG3 1QB
Parking: Plenty of free onsite parking with disabled and parent and child bays.
Prices: Adults £14.25, Children (5-16) £7.25, Family £35.25 but if you are planning to visit more than once I would recommend looking into the cost of membership.
Claire x
