Harrogate's 'friendliest social club' is thriving in era when most traditional clubs are closing down

Labelled the town's “friendliest social club”, The Oatlands Club was founded in the Victorian era when Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman was the British Prime Minister.

Thanks to its fantastic committee and staff, it has undergone an incredible revival of popularity in recent years, introducing a series of changes and improvements.

As a result, it now boasts more than 1,000 members from across the community with ages ranging from 18 to 80.

Having won the Club of the Year Award in the UK for third year running in August, last week saw it triumph again against hundreds of clubs around the whole of the UK.

Held in Leicester, the Club Mirror Awards 2025 saw The Oatlands Club nominated in a wide range of categories including CIU Club of the year, Family Club of the year, Diversity and Inclusion Club of the year, Innovative club of the year, Bar Steward of the year, and Sports Club of the year.

After being whittled down to a list of finalists by the Club Mirror judging panel, the Harrogate social club was proud to see its Club Manager/Secretary, Lucy Hague win Club Manager/ Secretary of the year.

It’s the second year in a row that Lucy has won the title.

A spokesperson for The Oatlands Club committee said: “For Lucy to win this main prize in 2024 was a real highlight for our club and community.

"But to win for the second year running in an extremely competitive category really shows what a fantastic and effective job Lucy is doing to both run and modernise our club and keep it thriving and busy in what is a tough time for local pub and clubs.

In recent times, The Oatlands Club has returned to the heart of its community, acting as a live venue, sports bar, party location, as well fundraising for local charities, including Saint Michael’s Hospice, Follifoot Park Disabled riders, and Harrogate food banks.

For more information, visit: https://www.theoatlands.co.uk/