Nowadays, the site of the first mineral spring discovered in the region, Tewitt Well, is marked by a dome within the Stray, a territory of open parkland sprawling over 800,000 square meters. The Harrogate Stray was created in 1778 by an Act of Parliament. Other wells can be found in Harrogate's Valley Gardens and the Royal Pump Room Museum. The British have always valued the gifts of nature on their rather heavily populated territory.

When the King gave "borough" status to Harrogate (by which it became a separate administrative unit and center) in the 12th Century, it had already become a famous place for wool trade/manufacturing and agriculture.

Harrogate had increasingly gained in popularity by the beginning of the 20th Century, especially among the English elite, and was often visited by nobility from around Europe. Its popularity declined after World War I, but during World War II Harrogate's enormous hotels provided safe and convenient accommodation for government officials who had been evacuated from London. This created a tradition of cultural life which fostered the town's development as a commercial, conference, and exhibition center.

In Britain, the government organizes noble competitions between its cities. In 2003, Harrogate won the Britain in Bloom award, in the Large Town category.

Now, spa tourism is only one of the many attractions and opportunities which Harrogate has to offer. There are many exhibitions, conferences, and seminars regularly held here, and the economy of the city is largely related to Leeds'. Because of the picturesque, healthy environment and setting, Harrogate is a preferred residential area for many commuters from Leeds and Bradford.