Introducing Harrogate 250

Harrogate has always been a town with extraordinary potential—shaped by its waters, landscapes, and civic vision. It’s where I grew up, where my family has lived for generations, and where I’ve always felt a deep connection to its past and a strong belief in its future.

But over the years, it’s been clear that we’re not fully realising that potential. Harrogate’s heritage is remarkable, but it’s often overlooked, fragmented, or underused. There’s no single place where all the energy, ideas, and ambition for the town come together—and that’s something we have the opportunity to change.

The year 2028 marks 250 years since the Great Award Act of 1778, a decision that helped define Harrogate’s identity—securing its mineral springs, landscapes, and status as a place of health and wellbeing. It was a moment of vision, setting the course for Harrogate’s future.

Now, coming up to 250 years later, we have the chance to look back at that ambition—to reflect on what made Harrogate special in the first place, recognise the challenges we face today, and use that understanding to shape a meaningful future.

We can create a year that doesn’t just mark history, but brings it to life. Cultural projects, exhibitions, performances, and environmental initiatives can all contribute to a wider movement—not just celebrating Harrogate’s past, but helping to build its next chapter.

This isn’t just about putting on events for a year and moving on. It’s about using 2028 as a launchpad for long-term change. The energy we build, the projects we develop, and the connections we make will lay the foundation for the years beyond. Harrogate 250 isn’t just a date—it’s an opportunity to reignite Harrogate’s sense of purpose.

We’re launching a free membership, inviting residents, businesses, and organisations to get involved—whether that’s through ideas, discussions, projects, or simply showing support. We want to bring together everyone who believes in Harrogate’s potential and create a space for collaboration, ambition, and action.

This is about taking ownership of our town’s future—ensuring that in 2028, we’re not just looking back, but moving forward with purpose.

The opportunity is here. The momentum is growing.

Let’s make it happen.