Member Details

Harrogate in North Yorkshire is one of England's most famous Spa towns.

Since the discovery of the first medicinal spring in 1571, the small village with the curious sulphur spring evolved into one of the most fashionable Spas in Europe, and a major health resort for the rich and famous.

It was during the latter part of the 18th century that the town started to become a fashionable retreat, as a new social set began to populate the rapidly developing town. Patients were recommended to drink up to two pints of sulphur water a day by their doctors, and bathing was a popular pass-time.

Harrogate was incorporated as a municipal borough in 1884 and took as its motto 'Arx Celebris Fontibus', meaning a citadel famous for its springs. The Royal Baths opened in 1897 were lavishly equipped, much research having been emulated from Spas in Europe.

Today the Royal Baths are undergoing major re-development involving the expansion of facilities in the Turkish Baths. Phase 1 has already been completed with the creation of eight new treatment rooms offering a range of traditional and contemporary treatments including: reflexology; reiki; body wraps; a range of beauty treatments; Indian head massage; dry floatation bed; spa synergy beauty packages and a spa pool.

One of only 3 of its kind in the country the Turkish Baths provide a refreshing and reviving experience with their invigorating steam room, hot rooms and plunge pool. Phase II of the development is dependent on the outcome of a lottery bid and if successful the Victorian Turkish Baths suite will undergo major restoration.

New life has been given to the building with the creation of new bars/restaurants in the complex combined with the excellent health and relaxation facilities at the improved Harrogate Turkish Baths and Health Spa.

For more information look at

www.harrogate.gov.uk/sportandleisure

The famous strong sulphur water can still be sampled in the Royal Pump Room Museum where displays tell the history of the town.

For more information look at

www.harrogate.gov.uk/museums

The launch of Harrogate Spa Water complements Harrogate's reputation as a spa town and hopes to re-establish the association of the name Harrogate with the best in drinking water. Available in sparkling and still, the water is drawn from unique water bearing rock formation.

For more information look at

www.harrogatespawater.co.uk

Harrogate Sulphur Soap's popularity continues to grow. The skin healing properties of sulphur has been known to treat conditions such as eczema and is a natural antiseptic. Each bar contains water from the sulphur springs, but don't worry about the sulphur smell, as the soap is available in four different fragrances.

For more information look at

www.harrogate-sulphur-soap.com

For more information on Harrogate and the surrounding District loot at

www.harrogate.gov.uk/tourism

Related sites

www.gilesrocholl.co.uk

This site features the legacy of Harrogate's spa architecture, with its unique railings and ironworks.