The Majestic Hotel

Built in 1899, the Majestic Hotel is a grand and stately property set on 12 acres of pretty landscaped gardens with ornate stone fountains and statues. The building and its setting are big selling points, steeped in fascinating history. Many famous names have passed through the hotel's doors over the years, from European Royals to Indian Maharajas. The redbrick facade is typical of the era, and on the the inside many period features have been retained, such as marble columns and sparkling crystal chandeliers. Antique grandfather clocks add a touch of Old-World charm, but overall, the decor feels a tad dated, with old-fashioned Baroque carpets and wallpaper. The communal areas also lack atmosphere, and most are quiet during the day -- but this may be a bonus for some travelers. The traditional bar has an old gentleman's club feel, providing a spot to unwind with a drink in the evening. The hotel frequently plays host to weddings and corporate events, which can make the hotel feel busier. The Majestic generally attracts a more mature crowd, ranging from business travelers during the week to tourists on the weekends. 

The hotel is located just off Ripon Road, a busy main road that leads to the center of Harrogate. The town center is a five-minute walk from the hotel, and it's filled with designer shops, upmarket bars, and chic restaurants. Many tourists flock to the famous Betty's Tea Rooms, a traditional cafe that's been around for almost a century. The Harrogate Turkish Baths & Health Spa is another popular attraction located in the center of town, along with the Harrogate Theater and Royal Pump Room Museum. The pretty Valley Gardens has a famous Art Deco sun dial and can be reached in five minutes on foot, while the Victoria Shopping Center is a 10-minute walk. Those venturing farther afield could visit Knaresborough Castle, a ruined fortress overlooking the River Nidd. It's around a 15-minute drive from the hotel, or 30 minutes away by train. Kirkstall Abbey is a 35-minute drive from the hotel, while the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park is about an hour away. Harrogate Rail Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, while Leeds Bradford International Airport is roughly a 30-minute drive.

The Majestic Hotel's 170 rooms range from Standard Rooms to Deluxe Suites and Family Rooms, which add either an additional single or sofa bed. They're all spacious and simply decorated with generic, somewhat less-than-fresh details including patterned carpets, neutral tones, heavy drapes, and simple wooden furniture. Standard Rooms are a little plain and dated, while higher-category rooms are better-finished and add period features like ornate fireplaces. Flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, phones, hairdryers, and free Wi-Fi come standard, but there are no minibars, safes, or air-conditioning. Standing fans are available on request. Rooms offering garden views are better, with others offering less-exciting views of the parking lot.Tiled bathrooms are clean and most are a decent size, though in the Standard Room that we visited the layout was quite compact and there was almost no counter space. Some are a tad old-fashioned, and all include shower/tub combos and free toiletries. Deluxe Rooms add upgraded toiletries from the White Company and some have separate showers. Due to the size and location of the hotel, most rooms are quiet, with minimal outside noise, though the floorboards in the hallways are creaky owing to the hotel's age.

The restaurant at The Majestic Hotel is spacious and grand, serving a traditional English and European seasonal menu. Breakfast and dinner packages are available for a fee, but the breakfast buffet receives mixed reviews. The hotel has a traditional bar and lounge with dark wood furnishings and period details. It's open around clock, serving beers, wines, and spirits in a relaxed setting, with classical music playing in the background. The leisure facilities are a big plus and free for all guests. There's a heated indoor swimming pool and sauna, as well as a small, but well-equipped, fitness center with modern cardio machines, resistance machines, and free weights. The hotel has a full-service spa and beauty salon, offering a variety of massages, facials, body treatments, and nail treatments for a fee. The hotel frequently hosts corporate events and weddings, and has 15 spacious and elegant function rooms and meeting spaces. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, babysitting for a fee, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel provides on-site parking, but spaces are limited and the fee is expensive.