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Inside Harrogate's free walking tours: A must-do activity for locals and tourists alike

Ripon BID will launch a shop window competition and free parking on specific dates to incentivise Christmas shopping in the city.

Harry Satloka's free walking tour is well worth a visit for Harrogatonians old and new. As a local it can be easy to take for granted that we live in such a lovely and interesting tour. Harry's free walking tour will put paid to that. I went along on a beautiful Autumn day, and returned an hour and a half later with a renewed appreciation for what drives thousands of visitors every week to sip tea at Betty's and stroll around Valley Gardens. Starting at the cenotaph at 10:30, 12:00, 13:30 and 15:00 from Wednesdays-Sundays, Harry guides you through the fascinating history of our town, from its beginnings thousands of years ago to the present day. He is a genial host, and delivers his extensive knowledge in a breezy but detailed way. Although the tour is 90 minutes, it is step-free and there are plenty of stops for those who are less mobile. I spoke to Harry, who has been running the tour for four years. After a career in hospitality he moved to Harrogate and fell in love with the town. He said: "My dad used to say everyone knows something you don't. It's incredible, I've met everyone from astrobiologists to tank drivers, it's really remarkable: There are so many cool people out there. Plus, being able to wander round and show off our town, it really is a huge privilege." So, if you find yourself with an hour or so to kill this Autumn, you could do much worse than Harry's excellent tour: He is sure to know something you don't. Finally, for those proud Yorkshiremen among you - it really is free. More information can be found here By Daniel Harrison

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