As autumn approaches, Harrogate is a perfect destination to enjoy the seasonally changing colours of beautiful parks, gardens and surrounding countryside.

The nightspace team has compiled their Top Five Favourite local walks, alongside their hand-picked selections of dog-friendly pubs, and recommended independent food stores – ideal to stock up on gourmet treats and ingredients for special meals to savour during your stay.

Top five walks:  

• Birk Crag – an enchanting mix of woodlands, open fields, rocky outcrops and the meandering Oak Beck stream create this scenic backdrop which changes with the seasons.
• Swinsty Reservoir - nestled in the stunning Washburn Valley, this three mile circular route provides breath-taking views across the water and the surrounding landscape.
• Harrogate Free Walking Tour – three times a day, from Wednesday to Sunday inclusive, join your guide, Harry, for a leisurely stroll through the spa town, and learn some of Harrogate's history along the way.
• The Valley Gardens – perfect for families, these English Heritage Grade II Listed gardens are situated at the very heart of Harrogate and, along with woodland known as The Pinewoods, cover 17 acres. The Valley Gardens provide a haven of natural beauty, and a host of recreational activities for all ages.
• Thruscross – those wanting to step up to more of a challenge should head to Thruscross for a walk which runs through a beautiful landscape of woodlands, moorland and pastures, as well as crags, ghylls and streams along the edge of the Washburn Valley's highest reservoir. 

Top five dog-friendly pubs:

• Hales Bar – the oldest pub in town established in the mid-18^th century, soak up its historic character in the gas-lit saloon bar, which serves a range of cask ales, wine and spirits, outside there is a ‘secret’ beer garden.
• The Old Bell – the history of this town centre tavern dates back to 1786, today it serves up a selection of craft and cask ales, plus boutique spirits and home cooked pub grub.
• The Tap on Tower Street – known for its cask ales, array of spirits, welcoming atmosphere, and board game library, The Tap is a favourite watering hole for locals and visitors alike.
• The Nelson Inn – just outside Harrogate, this pub/restaurant offers an impressive array of drinks to complement the menu of classic, British cuisine.  A leisurely three mile circular walk, starting from the inn, is a superbly scenic way to work up an appetite. 
• Three’s A Crowd – enjoying a central location with views across the Stray, this modern gastropub prides itself on high quality drinks, food and service.

Top five independent food stores:

• Weetons – situated in a prime location, overlooking the West Park Stray, this gourmet food store, known for its elegant interior, offers a wide range of high-quality fresh produce, artisanal foods, speciality ingredients, and prepared meals.
• The Cheeseboard - established in 1981, this is considered by many to be one of Yorkshire’s finest cheese shops, stocking over 200 types of cheese from local, British and Continental producers, as well as gourmet accompaniments.
• Tarbett’s Fishmongers – centrally located on Commercial Street, opposite The Cheeseboard, this small but special emporium stocks the freshest of fish and seafood. From salmon, plaice, lemon sole and halibut to tuna, sea bass and swordfish; there is also a deli counter with a selection of shellfish, sauces and seasonings.
• Cook – although not officially an independent, this award-winning purveyor of delicious, ready-made frozen meals is the perfect solution for indulgent self-catering!  Treat yourself from the Harrogate branch’s global menu – British, French, Italian, Moroccan, Indian, Thai and more.
• Vanilli’s Artisan Ice Cream – few towns are lucky enough to have an ice cream parlour as good as this. Amazing flavours are handmade on the premises using locally sourced milk and cream, including some vegan, dairy free and gluten free options, and all are available to take away.