Originally published on March 28, 2025 | Last updated on March 28, 2025
If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing experience in the UK, the Turkish Baths in Harrogate should be at the top of your list. Relaxing while enjoying stunning architecture, rich history, and soothing atmosphere, what’s not to like?! Whether you’re a spa enthusiast or simply visiting Harrogate, this experience is well worth it.
Since moving to Yorkshire for my graduate job, I had always wanted to visit Harrogate. Somehow, it took me 7 years to finally make it happen! It was winter in the UK—cold and dark—so what better way to escape the chill than with a day out in Harrogate, relaxing in a Turkish Bath?
A Little History of Harrogate
According to Visit Harrogate, Harrogate’s spa culture dates back to 1571, when the town’s natural waters were discovered to have similar healing properties to those in Spa, Belgium—the very town that gave mineral waters their famous name. By the late 19th century, Harrogate had become a thriving spa destination, attracting wealthy visitors from across Europe. With its pump rooms, grand hotels, assembly rooms, shops, and theatres, it was the place to be for relaxation and luxury.
The History of Turkish Baths
In Victorian times, most people didn’t have indoor running water, making bathing a luxury. Inspired by their travels in Turkey, David Urquhart and others introduced Turkish baths to Britain, with the first opening in Ireland in 1856. These baths quickly spread across the country, offering both hygiene and a communal, alcohol-free space. Over 600 Turkish baths were built in Britain, appearing in hospitals, hotels, private homes, and even on ocean liners (cruise ships – but much faster).
Many, if not most, Turkish baths were closed after World War 2, as people have access of hot water. The high cost of running and maintaining Turkish baths weren’t helping either. Today, the Harrogate Turkish Baths is one of the best-preserved in the UK, featuring intricate Moorish designs, beautifully tiled walls, and an ambiance that transports you to another world.
How to Book
I booked online, as I was worried it would be quite crowded. I definitely recommend booking in advance. The slots were pretty much booked about 2-3 weeks in advance when I did it. Especially if you are looking for a weekend slots. You can book online on the Turkish Bath website, it was very easy and straightforward.
What to Expect
A visit to the Turkish Baths takes you through a series of heated rooms designed to relax and cleanse your body. Here’s what you can expect:
- The Warm/hot rooms – Start with gentle heat to prepare your body. There are 3 separate chambers with increasing heat, so you can move through progressively warmer chambers. As you walk more to the inside, the hotter it gets.
- The Plunge Pool – A quick dip in icy cold water is both refreshing and invigorating.
- The Relaxation Lounge – End your session by unwinding in a peaceful lounge area.
- Steam room – there is also a steam room on site! I think it’s feels a lot warmer due to the high humidity.
Tips for Your Visit
- Book in Advance – The baths are popular, so secure your spot early. Especially if you want to visit on the weekends or during holiday periods.
- Bring Swimwear – Swimwear is required here.
- Bring a water bottle! – Drink plenty of water before and after your session. There is a cold water fountain inside the warm rooms.
- Towels and robes are provided, FYI.
- Important: remember your locker!!! I was going to take a lot more pictures until I can’t remember my locker number so I can’t get my phone until the absolute end of my session. If you really forget your pin, the staff can help you. But if you can’t remember which locker, you’d be screwed like me.
- Bring a book for the relaxation rooms!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need?
The slots are 1.5-2 hours sessions, but I ended up staying a bit more for showers. Don’t forget to come a bit early as parking in town centre can be a bit tricky. So I’d suggest tacking 15 minutes before to find parking and maybe about 20 minutes after for shower.
Is there female only sessions?
Yes, they do have female and male only sessions. It’s clearly indicated on the booking system. Most sessions seems to be mixed sessions.
How hot is it?
I’d preface it by saying that I’m an Indonesian native, and hence used to heat (it’s about 30C all year round in Indonesia). I tend to also like a lot of heat. So I think that even the hottest room is still quite warm, but not very hot. I do find the steam room is hot enough for me though. I’d say I can withstand heat better than average British people. For most people it’ll be fine. The cold plunge pool is not icy cold, but is cold enough to be refreshing.
Final Thoughts
The Harrogate Turkish Baths offer the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Whether you visit alone for a peaceful retreat or with friends for a unique spa day, it’s an experience you won’t forget. If you’re ever in Harrogate, don’t miss the chance to unwind in this stunning and historic setting!
Pro tip: after a morning of relaxing, enjoy Betty’s afternoon tea just round the corner!
