Harrogate's first walking tour is a hit!

Since the smartly-dressed Harry launched what he calls his Free Walking Tour off his own back a few months ago, visitors from round the country and abroad have not only praised his local knowledge and personal charm, so have many Harrogate residents and businesses.

So much so, in fact, some local shops are now demanding to be added to the route of his tour which begins at the war memorial outside Bettys Tearooms and last and hour and 20 minutes each time - approximately.

One business owner, Tony Wilkinson of the Harrogate Tea Rooms, which is located in Westminster Arcade, said: "“I’m hoping to get the young man who has started leading tours of Harrogate by foot to include Westminster Arcade on the route. I’ve heard great reports about him.”

The tour, which is free and takes place four times a day from Thursday to Sunday (plus bank holidays), is subtitled "discover Harrogate through her historical landmarks and features."

The hospitable young guide in the dapper waistcoat takes people by foot to most of the classic landmarks, as well as sometimes stopping off for refreshments in various local cafes and bars.

The Free Walking Tour's stop-off points include: the Royal Pump Rooms, Bettys Tearooms, the Royal Baths, Harrogate’s Oldest Pub, the Winter Gardens, Tthe Royal Hall, Mercer Gallery, the Valley Gardens, the Turkish Baths and more.

This enterprising young entrepreneur says he was inspired by "Harrogate’s rich history and stunning architecture made me want to find out more about this beautiful town."This prompted him to rummage through dusty old books during weeks of research.

But Harrogate's perfect host has a secret, one he is, fortunately, happy to reveal. Harry Daniel Satloka, to give his full name, is not actually from Yorkshire and has only lived in Harrogate for a year.

One final thought, with tourism and visitor numbers so vital for Harrogate's future prosperity, why isn't anyone paying this go-ahead young man to do this vital work for the town?

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