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Harrogate and York

Welcome to God's country. This is a holiday defined by four fine and contrasting buildings. Harrogate Pump Room, Harrogate Turkish Baths, York Minster and Fountains Abbey. Throw in some fine walking and two guided tours and we have a great recipe for a short break. Enjoy!

  • Yorkshire

  • 4 nights
  • Half Board
  • City Breaks

    Culture

  • Apr

    May

    Jun

    Dec

Leisurely

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Walking grade

Grade 3

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Enjoy a Blue Badge guided tour of York and Harrogate.
  • Explore the beautiful York Minster.
  • Embrace Harrogate’s spa history, including entry to the Royal Pump Rooms.
  • Uncover Ripon with a walk from the striking Fountains Abbey.
  • The December tour visits York during the Christmas Market season.
  • A rare chance to visit the Harrogate Turkish baths.

Everyone from Yorkshire will be well aware that their county is known as God’s own country. Yet, those of us born elsewhere will perhaps be unfamiliar with everything Yorkshire has to offer. This city break showcases the best of Harrogate and York. Harrogate is a city of genteel elegance; a spa town with a fascinating history, while York is one of the country’s most attractive cities.

Harrogate town centre also benefits from great accessible walking routes. You’ll get out into the local countryside and stop at the majestic ruins of Fountains Abbey and take a trip to Ripon which will put the cherry on top of a fantastic holiday.

You’ll stay in the centrally-located Crown Hotel in Harrogate, just steps away from the picturesque town centre. You will embark on Blue Badge half-day guided tours of Harrogate and York, while your leader will lead walks out into the lovely surrounding countryside.

In York, you will have some free time to discover the many attractions of this beautiful city. The Shambles shopping area is an obvious example of the many places of interest you can choose from. Those who book for December will also get to enjoy the festivities of the York Christmas Market. 

On your final day, you will travel north to the historical city of Ripon. This alluring location is surrounded by the Yorkshire Dales and boasts an astounding cathedral. There will be time to explore Fountains Abbey. Here, you can truly soak up the culture with a good look around the impressive ruins, before walking back into Ripon.

All public bus fares are included in the price of the holiday. However, if you have a bus pass you may choose to bring it with you for convenience. The bus pass would be useful should decide to head out to explore on your own.

The photos in our gallery of York have been provided by our friends at Yorkshire Tourism.

  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • Entrances to York Minster, Harrogate Turkish Baths and Harrogate Royal Pump Rooms
  • Blue badge guided tours of York and Harrogate
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by public bus and train
  • Services of a Discover Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance to Fountains Abbey. This is free with National Trust or English Heritage membership. Please remember to bring your membership cards with you if you have one.
  • Lunches

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

77504

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent arrival at The Crown Hotel Harrogate. Check in is from 3pm. Dinner each evening is in the hotel restaurant.  

Day 2

York

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

After breakfast you will walk down to the train station and take the direct train to York which will take just over 30 minutes. At York train station you will meet our Blue Badge Guide for a morning's guided walk around the city. York must be one of the most engaging of England’s cities. There is much to see and included is a visit to the minster. On the guided walk you will get to know where everything is. 

After lunch, your holiday includes entrance to the Minster (without our Blue Badge Guide). After this visit you have a limited amount of time to explore more of York under your own steam. You can return to Harrogate together with the group or individually on the train later in the afternoon.

Day 3

Harrogate

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

After breakfast you will have an early start to get to the Turkish Baths for your 08.30 guided tour. These tours only run on Wednesdays at this time. It is a short walk from the hotel to the baths. Your Blue Badge Guide will meet outside the baths and take you for a morning’s guided walk around this attractive spa town. In the afternoon your leader will take a local walk out through Valley Gardens, a lovely place to stroll regardless of the season. Those who prefer can stay and enjoy more of the town. A well known landmark is Betty’s Tea Rooms. For those not walking, an afternoon tea makes for an excellent holiday treat. Betty's is a short walk from the hotel.

  • Time

    2 hours

  • Distance

    2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    50m

Day 4

Ripon and Fountains Abbey

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

You head north today taking the public bus to Ripon. This attractive town deserves a moment of your time, particularly its cathedral. You will take taxis out to Fountains Abbey, one of the finest abbey ruins in the country. The abbey dates back to 1132 and lasted until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539. The abbey grounds and attached Studley Royal Water Gardens make an ideal place to stroll around. Those who prefer can taxi back to Ripon but the leader will lead a walk back. There are regular buses back to Harrogate. Please note entrance to Fountains Abbey is not included in the holiday price. Entrance is free to National Trust and English Heritage members, so don't forget your membership card if you have one. 

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    3.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    100m

Day 5

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Independent departure after breakfast. Check out is by 11am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and we look forward to welcoming you on another soon. 

Departure dates for your selected tour

13th May 2024 - 17th May 2024 (4 Nights)

17th Jun 2024 - 21st Jun 2024 (4 Nights)

9th Dec 2024 - 13th Dec 2024 (4 Nights)

7th Apr 2025 - 11th Apr 2025 (4 Nights)

5th May 2025 - 9th May 2025 (4 Nights)

16th Jun 2025 - 20th Jun 2025 (4 Nights)

8th Dec 2025 - 12th Dec 2025 (4 Nights)

Travel Details

To reach the hotel ...

by car: A1(M) from the north or south.

Exit Junction 47 and take A59 signposted towards Knaresborough and Harrogate. Please note,  if you choose to drive to the Crown Hotel, car parking is very limited and is on a first come, first served basis. If you are able to park at the hotel, the hotel charges a surcharge of £12 per day. Reception staff can assist with nearby street parking if required, however street parking is likely to be charged on the meter. There are various other chargeable car parks in the town and Park and Ride options which you may wish to use. For more information please see:

www.harrogate.gov.uk/can-i-park/car-parks-harrogate

by rail: Harrogate station is situated on the National Rail Network with direct trains from Leeds and York. The station is situated less than one mile from the hotel.

Taxis from station will cost approximately £4.00.  It is only a five minute taxi ride to the hotel.

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.


Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

The Crown Hotel Harrogate

We stay at the three-star Crown Hotel situated in the heart of the charming old town of Harrogate. Just a few minutes walk from the Turkish Baths, Royal Pump Rooms, Betty's Tea Rooms and Valley Gardens. The hotel was built over 300 years ago as a private house and was renovated in the 19th Century for Victorian visitors to go to the pump room. Due to the age of the building, we ask that you are sympathetic to its style and note that this is not a modern hotel. This comfortable and affordable hotel has been chosen for its excellent location to the town and the public transport links as well as being in a perfect location to complete the holiday itinerary. 

The hotel has 115 individually styled bedrooms, each with simple décor and offering 24-hour room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities. There are no fridges in the rooms. Bedrooms all vary in size and location within the hotel building. Please note that single occupancy bedrooms are small and have a single bed. 

Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the hotel. Meals are served in either the historic Churchill Suite or the Brasserie Restaurant. Breakfasts are buffet style and evening meals will be offered from a set menu with a choice of dishes. 

Like many city centre hotels, car parking is very limited and is on a first come first served basis. Because parking is at premium in Harrogate, the hotel charges £12.00 per night. If you do park at the hotel, you will need to advise the reception team that you have parked onsite and obtain parking permits for your stay. If the car park is full then we recommend the following alternatives: Montpellier Shoppers (Postcode for Satnav HG1 2TF) – 2-minute walk away - £11.00 per 24 hours, Jubilee Car Park (postcode for Satnav HG1 1DJ) – 5-minute walk away - £14.00 per 24 hours. There are also several off-street parking options available close by: Cornwall Road, Harlow Moor Drive and Duchy Road. Please check any parking restrictions before leaving your vehicle.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. 

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel…

by car: From the A1 North – Exit the A1(M) junction 47 to Harrogate. Follow the A661 for Harrogate town centre into West Park one way system. After the second pedestrian crossing turn left down Montpelier Hill. The Crown Hotel is at the bottom.

From the A1 South – Exit at Wetherby onto the A661 following signs for Harrogate town centre. Follow the A661 for Harrogate town centre into West Park one way system. After the second pedestrian crossing, turn left down Montpelier Hill. The Crown Hotel is at the bottom.

by rail: The nearest railway station is Harrogate which is a 10 minute walk to the hotel. There are trains from London Kings Cross amongst other places.

by coach: The nearest bus station is at Harrogate. The coach station is in the town centre just off Station Parade, which is less than 100 metres from the railway station.

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.

Please note, if you choose to drive to the Crown Hotel, car parking is very limited and is on a first come first served basis. If you are able to park at the hotel, the hotel charges a surcharge of £12 per day. Reception staff can assist with nearby street parking if required, however street parking is likely to be charged on the meter. 

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Accommodation is on a half board basis with buffet breakfasts and dinners taken at the hotel. Picnic lunches are not included.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWW15 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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