Harrogate Bee Social's vision of 'helping women who feeling isolated' creates thriving community of 1,000 members
A women’s community in Harrogate that has grown to more than 1,000 members in an extraordinary opening 12 months is celebrating its first birthday tomorrow.
Harrogate Bee Social was launched in September 2025 to create more opportunities for women in Harrogate and the surrounding area to meet people, make friends and build face-to-face connections.
A year later, it has grown into a thriving local community.
The Founder of Harrogate Bee Social said she was proud that, in its first 12 months, the community group had organised approximately 260 events, ranging from coffee mornings, dinners and nights out to walks, hikes, creative evenings, book clubs, quizzes and wellbeing sessions.
"What has probably surprised me most is the huge variety of women who have joined us,” said Jane.
"Women in their 20s right through to their 70s and beyond have come along for all sorts of reasons, moving to the area, working from home, children leaving home, retirement, relationship changes, bereavement, or simply realising that they would like a wider circle of friends.
"Along the way we have also developed relationships with numerous independent businesses, venues and organisations across Harrogate, creating member discounts, special events and collaborations while encouraging our community to discover and support local businesses.”
One of the biggest moments of Harrogate Bee Social’s first year came when it was selected as a finalist in the BBC Radio York Make a Difference Awards 2026 in the Community Group category.
The awards ceremony will take place on September 18, which, potentially, could become a special way to mark the end of Harrogate Bee Social’s first year.
While excited about its developing partnership with The Yorkshire Soap Company, which has already led to collaborative events, Harrogate Bee Social’s founder says there is lots more to come.
"We want to continue creating opportunities for friendship and connection and develop more collaborations with Harrogate businesses and organisations,” said Jane.
“And we want to make it easier for women who may be feeling isolated or simply finding it difficult to meet new people to take that first step through the door.”
More information at: https://www.harrogatebeesocial.co.uk/