As we move into March, February has been a month of important developments and continued momentum for Harrogate BID and the wider town centre.
Most notably, we announced the appointment of Jason Maxwell as our new Chief Executive Officer. Jason brings significant experience in BID leadership and regeneration, and I am confident that his expertise and energy will support the next phase of delivery under our current Business Plan. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to formally thank Gemma Rio for her professionalism and dedication during her time as Interim CEO. Her leadership over recent months has been invaluable.
February also saw the conclusion of the Accommodation BID ballot. While the outcome was not what we had hoped for, I would like to thank all businesses that engaged constructively throughout the consultation process. The feedback gathered remains important and will help inform how we continue to strengthen Harrogate’s visitor economy moving forward.
It was encouraging to see Harrogate named in Booking.com’s Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities in the World for 2026, the only UK destination to feature. This recognition reflects the high standards, service and commitment demonstrated daily by businesses across the town.
Alongside these developments, the BID team has continued to deliver events and partnerships that support footfall and local spend, including the return of the Makers Market, and preparations for upcoming initiatives such as Mothering Funday and the Harrogate Dog Show.
As always, we remain focused on delivering tangible value for levy payers and supporting a vibrant, resilient town centre. If you have feedback or ideas you would like to share, please do contact the BID team at: info@harrogatebid.co.uk
Thank you for your continued support.
Yours sincerely,
Simon Midgley
Chair, Harrogate BID
New Chief Executive Officer Appointed
Harrogate BID is delighted to announce the appointment of Jason Maxwell as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Jason joins the organisation with extensive experience in place leadership, regeneration and business engagement, having spent more than seven years leading Stockton BID and most recently working within the Economic Growth team at Hartlepool Borough Council.
During his time at Stockton BID, Jason founded Stockton Street Angels, a volunteer-led initiative supporting the evening economy and improving town-centre safety, and established Stockton MET, a business network designed to encourage collaboration and investment.
Accommodation BID Ballot Result
The result of the Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) ballot has been confirmed, with businesses voting not to proceed with the proposal.
The ABID had been developed to provide a sustainable, locally controlled funding mechanism to strengthen the town’s visitor economy, enhance destination marketing activity and support long-term competitiveness, following 18 months of consultation with accommodation providers and stakeholders.
While the result is not what was hoped for, the BID remains committed to working collaboratively with partners to strengthen Harrogate’s visitor economy. The ABID Steering Group and BID Board will now review feedback gathered throughout the campaign and consider next steps.
Harrogate Named in Booking.com Top 10
Most Welcoming Cities
Harrogate has been named in Booking.com’s Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities for 2026 as part of its global Traveller Review Awards and is the only UK destination to make the list.
Based on more than 370 million verified traveller reviews, the recognition highlights Harrogate’s strong sense of community, spa heritage and consistently high standards of hospitality. This international recognition is a significant endorsement of the town’s visitor economy and the work of local businesses.
Harrogate Makers Market to Return
We’re delighted to celebrate another successful return of the Harrogate Makers Market, delivered in partnership with Real Markets.
Cambridge Street
Every third Sunday of the month
10am–4pm
The Makers Market celebrates independent makers while driving footfall to the town.
Harrogate Town AFC Crossbar Challenge Partnership
Harrogate BID is proud to be partnering once again with Harrogate Town AFC as part of the Town Rewards scheme.
At each home game, one supporter is selected to take a half-time shot from the edge of the D. If the crossbar is hit, the supporter wins a Harrogate Gift Card.
The prize pot starts at £100 and rolls over by £100 for each game it is not won, potentially reaching £700 this season.
The Harrogate Gift Card supports nearly 100 town centre businesses, ensuring spend stays local and benefits the wider economy.
Mothering Funday Returns – Saturday, 14 March
Mothering Funday returns to the Victoria Shopping Centre Piazza on Saturday, 14th March, 11am–3pm.
The popular ‘Wipeout’ inflatable challenge will once again provide family entertainment, with prizes including a £100 Harrogate Gift Card and additional giveaways from local businesses.
Harrogate Restaurant Week
Harrogate Restaurant Week took place from 16–22 February in association with Your Harrogate Radio.
Participating venues offered strong value promotions across multiple price tiers, including offers from Pitcher & Piano, Jenny’s Tearoom, Elysian, Harrogate Brewing Co and The Crown Hotel.
Thank you to all participating venues for their involvement.
Save the Date:
Harrogate Dog Show
The Harrogate Dog Show returns on:
Saturday, 11th April
10am–4pm
Victoria Shopping Centre Piazza
Further details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Great Yorkshire Show 2026 – BID Member Opportunity
This year, Harrogate BID has partnered with the Great Yorkshire Show and Your Harrogate to create a dedicated Harrogate showcase area at the 2026 Show.
The concept is to deliver a ‘mini high street’ within the showground – a full Harrogate avenue featuring a curated mix of local businesses and experiences, presented in an immersive and engaging way to promote the town to thousands of visitors.
We are offering BID Members the opportunity to be part of this exciting showcase.
Please note that places are limited and spaces will be allocated based on suitability to ensure the right balance and representation of Harrogate businesses.
Expressions of interest have been extended and will now close on Friday, 6 March.
If you would like to get involved, please email info@harrogatebid.co.uk.
Hospitality: The Leaders of Tomorrow
Delivered by the Hospitality Junior Board in partnership with the York & North Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership, this one-day event supports young professionals working in hospitality and tourism across the region.
Monday, 23rd March 2026
Rudding Park
Free to attend
For more information, please visit:
https://hospitalityjuniorboard.co.uk/leaders-of-tomorrow/
Exclusive Offer for Harrogate BID Members – Verity Frearson
Verity Frearson, Harrogate’s leading independent estate agency, is offering an exclusive benefit to Harrogate BID members.
Selling more homes in Harrogate and the surrounding areas than any other agent, Verity Frearson is known for being passionate, professional and proactive about property.
Harrogate BID members can receive £500 off standard selling fees, provided this is mentioned at the time of booking a valuation.
If you are considering selling your home, you can arrange a free, no-obligation market appraisal with their friendly team.
To book your free valuation, contact:
hello@verityfrearson.co.uk
Let’s Talk Climate – Free Training Opportunity
Zero Carbon Harrogate is delivering the Let’s Talk Climate training programme.
Workshop: 9 March, 7pm (online)
The programme supports participants in developing confidence to have constructive climate conversations in everyday settings. Additional opportunities include a six-week Challenge programme and hosting training.
More more information and to book your place, visit:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lets-talk-climate-a-free-online-workshop-tickets-1981466781483
Health in Harrogate: 200 Years
This major exhibition celebrates 200 years since the opening of Harrogate’s first hospital, supported by a programme of talks, walks and performances. Proceeds from ticketed events will support St Michael’s Hospice.
West Park Centre
6 April – 16 May
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
10:30am–3pm
Free entry