RHS Garden Harlow Carr

The site that became Harlow Carr has a long association with health and horticulture. The area’s mineral springs, part of Harrogate’s wider spa heritage, were once used for bathing and drinking. In the mid-19th century, a small hotel and bath house stood nearby, drawing visitors who believed the waters had medicinal qualities. When interest in spa treatments declined, attention shifted towards horticultural use of the land.

The Northern Horticultural Society acquired the site in 1946, transforming it into a regional centre for gardening education and experimentation. Its purpose was to demonstrate plants suited to the cooler, wetter conditions of northern England. The garden quickly gained importance as a testing ground for hardy species and as a place where amateur gardeners could learn practical techniques.

In 2001, Harlow Carr became part of the Royal Horticultural Society, joining the RHS’s other gardens at Wisley, Rosemoor and Hyde Hall. Since then, the site has expanded with new themed areas, educational facilities and conservation projects. It continues to play a role in promoting sustainable gardening practices and the cultivation of plants suited to northern conditions.

The garden also holds cultural value for the town of Harrogate. It reflects the area’s long-standing reputation for horticulture and wellness, connecting the town’s spa history with its present identity as a centre for gardens and green spaces.

What to see at RHS Garden Harlow Carr

Visitors to RHS Garden Harlow Carr can explore a variety of landscapes arranged across 23.5 hectares (58 acres). The design integrates formal planting schemes with natural areas, taking advantage of the site’s valley setting and changing elevations.

One of the main features is the Main Borders, a broad stretch of mixed planting that demonstrates colour, structure and texture across the seasons. The borders are planned to provide interest throughout the year, with spring bulbs, summer perennials, autumn foliage and winter stems.

The Streamside Garden follows the course of a small beck that runs through the site. This area features damp-loving plants such as primulas, irises and ferns, arranged along winding paths and small bridges. It is one of the longest streamside plantings in Britain and shows how gardens can work with natural watercourses.

Nearby, the Kitchen Garden focuses on fruit, vegetables and herbs, illustrating methods of sustainable food growing. Raised beds, glasshouses and composting areas demonstrate how to grow crops in northern conditions. Seasonal displays show different cultivation techniques, while the adjoining Gardening Advice Centre provides information and examples for visitors interested in home growing.

Winter Walk was developed to highlight colour and structure outside the main growing season. Bark, berries, evergreen foliage and ornamental grasses provide variety when other parts of the garden are dormant. Other notable areas include the Sub-Tropicana Garden, which explores planting suited to warmer microclimates, and the Alpine House, featuring compact plants from mountain regions.

Woodland is a tranquil zone with paths leading to quieter parts of the site, including the Arboretum.

Families often visit for the open space and educational trails. Seasonal events include plant fairs, sculpture exhibitions and workshops. The Bettys Café Tea Rooms, near the entrance, is an outpost of the Harrogate institution, with indoor seating and a shop selling tea and bakery items.

Visiting RHS Garden Harlow Carr

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is on Crag Lane, about 3.2km (2 miles) from Harrogate town centre. It is easily accessible by bus with bus route 6 connecting it with the town centre. You can also walk here from the town centre in around 40 minutes.

The garden is open daily throughout the year except for Christmas Day. The admission charge is fairly steep, although it is slightly cheaper if you book your tickets in advance and RHS members can visit free of charge.

The garden includes a visitor centre with ticketing, shop and café facilities. Toilets and baby-changing areas are available near the entrance and within the garden. The site is largely accessible, with step-free paths and benches at regular intervals, though some areas include slopes or uneven surfaces. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are available for hire, and assistance dogs are welcome throughout.

In addition to the main café, there are seasonal kiosks serving drinks and snacks. The shop sells gardening tools, books, seeds and gifts. Plant sales offer species grown in the garden or selected for northern climates. Educational workshops, talks and family activities are held regularly, often linked to seasonal themes such as spring bulbs or autumn harvests.

If you enjoyed your visit to Harlow Carr, you may also like to visit Valley Gardens, closer to the town centre.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr is quite a large site, so it’s best to allow at least 2–3 hours for your visit.