Visit Harrogate column: Signs of spring are beginning to show

They are a welcome sight after the dark, cold days of winter.

Snowdrops and crocuses are trying to wake up despite their snow covering and finally the days are getting longer and they are getting brighter.

The sights, the sounds and the smells of spring are the signs of new life and of new optimism.

Further talk of spring and optimism comes from the chief economist at the Bank of England, Andy Haldane, who has stated that the UK is ‘poised like a coiled spring’ to bounce back, as people look to spend their savings after the lockdown ends.

Andy Haldane strongly believes that people are desperate to get their lives back, ‘when given the opportunity to do so safely, they will seize it’.

So it is with all these positive signs that we move forward and we also look ahead to opportunities to travel once again while at the same time we prepare to welcome visitors back to the Harrogate District.

For those who are planning a staycation or weekend away, we want to inspire them to make sure that the Harrogate District it is at the top of their list of places to visit and to explore – we want to be a ‘must visit’ destination when the time is right.

Life in lockdown has been a massive shift for all of us and it’s forced us to focus more on what’s on our doorstep. That said, if you are lucky enough to live close to one of our glorious National Trust gardens at Fountains Abbey or Beningbrough Hall they are open for local visitors to enjoy the fresh air and a wander round - just book before you go.

Also the RHS Garden at Harlow Carr remains open for daily exercise for visitors who live close by. Once again mandatory pre-booking remains in place.

Another activity you can get involved in from your doorstep is stargazing.

The Virtual Dark Skies Festival for the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales runs until February 28. Although you will not be able to venture into the wildernesses in person, it’s a chance to open your eyes and look up towards the night sky while you are at home.

The astronomy programme organised alongside ‘Go Stargazing’ includes a stellar line-up of top astronomers and scientists.

Watch presentations, or why not join interactive tours and check out live views of the moon?

There’s many other ways to get involved too, from activities and quizzes to crafts and baking.

There’s also access to live wildlife cameras throughout the festival giving you an insight into nocturnal activity of some incredible species.

And it is hoped that all this will capture your imagination and inspire a visit from you in the future.

Visit Harrogate will continue to bring you up to date information, provide travel inspiration and share the interesting stories which make the Harrogate District a ‘must visit’ destination for a staycation or weekend away.

So you can keep up to date with what’s on by following us through our social channels on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and also by visiting our www.visitharrogate.co.uk website.