Pete Egerton

10:00am - 1:00pm

Email the studio

Kylie Minogue

Spinning Around

Listen Live

Harrogate's first hospital celebrates 200th anniversary

Thursday, 16 October 2025 09:26

The Royal Bath Hospital, pictured in 1910.

Harrogate's first hospital will celebrate its 200th anniversary next year, marking two centuries since it first opened its doors in 1826.

A special event is planned to celebrate the milestone of the Royal Bath Hospital.

A special exhibition organised by the Harrogate Medical Society and Harrogate Hospital will open at the West Park Centre on 6th April 2026, running for six weeks.

The event will explore the town’s medical and spa heritage, tracing how Harrogate became known internationally for its healing waters and health facilities.

Visitors will be able to view historical artefacts, photographs and documents, and take part in a programme of weekly talks and activities.

As part of the celebrations, Harrogate Hospital will host public open days, and the Harrogate Civic Society will unveil a memorial plaque in honour of Wilfrid Edgecombe, described as “perhaps the last remaining spa physician” and an important figure in Harrogate’s medical history during the interwar years.

Additional exhibitions will be held at the Royal Pump Room Museum and Harrogate Library, with guided tours offering further insight into the town’s development as a centre for health and wellbeing.

Local schools will also be involved through creative projects.

Primary pupils will design posters inspired by Victorian-era advertisements for Harrogate’s spa waters, while secondary students will take part in a writing challenge titled “A Day at the Harrogate Spa,” producing diary entries, short stories or poems imagining life as a patient or doctor from the past.

Organisers hope the anniversary will encourage residents and visitors to reflect on Harrogate’s long association with health and healing.

The event is being supported by local businesses, societies and individuals. Anyone wishing to contribute can contact organiser Liz Leinhardt on 07752 251121.

Your Harrogate's Pete Egerton has been catching up with Sian Greenwood, a member of the Harrogate Medical Society and Civic Society, plus, David Lionheart from the Harrogate Medical Society:

More from Local News

Harrogate teen shines at cheerleading world championships

A Harrogate teenager has helped her team achieve international success at one of the world's biggest cheerleading competitions in the United States.
Wickes plans to open new store on Ripon Road

DIY retailer Wickes has submitted plans to open a new store in Harrogate.
Which famous faces will be attending Your Harrogate's Local Hero Awards?

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards are set to return this evening for our biggest night of the year.
Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards

Finalists have been announced for the Knaresborough Business Awards 2026 ahead of a ceremony later this year.
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour

A Harrogate woman is walking 200 kilometres this month to raise money for brain tumour research in memory of her father.
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers

Harrogate has been identified as one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing locations for Land Rover interest, according to new audience data from Land Rover Monthly.
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities

The annual Big Harrogate Sleepout is set to return for a third year in support of two local charities.
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards

Harrogate-based Phase 4 Computers has been shortlisted in six categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for new powers to close cowboy vendors and restrict illicit vape shops on the high street.
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague

In memory of a late colleague, staff from Harrogate family law firm Jones Myers have donated vital equipment to help enhance the wellbeing and comfort of cancer patients.
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards return this week to shine a light on the selfless, dedicated and inspirational people across the Harrogate district.
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon

Police are appealing for information in relation to a public order that occurred in Ripon city centre.
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows

Over half (54%) of people in Yorkshire oppose the Government's proposed holiday tax, according to a major new poll.
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle

Harrogate horticultural charity Horticap is going even greener after securing sponsorship for a new electric van from developer the Banks Group.
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise

Harrogate-based IT provider Techbuyer has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district

A new partnership programme designed to support men's mental health across Harrogate district has secured funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough Castle repairs finally set to get underway

Reparation and restoration works are finally set to get underway at Knaresborough Castle, according to a local councillor.
Opening date delayed for new-look Furlong and Furrow

The opening of the newly rebranded Furlong and Furrow near Ripon has been delayed by an extra week.
Boutique women's fashion brand opens new Harrogate store

A boutique women’s fashion brand has opened its doors in Harrogate town centre.
Football stars visit Harrogate school to inspire next generation

Two international football stars have shared a first-hand insight into their successful football journeys with pupils at a Harrogate school.