The North of England Horticultural Society (NEHS) has been organising shows in Harrogate since 1923, (more examples of shows can be found at www.flowershow.org. uk). The Showgrounds, home also of the Great Yorkshire Show in July each year (see page 80) now hosts floral extravaganzas in Spring and Autumn, with 70% under cover, mostly on hard surfaces making it easily accessible whatever the weather.

These shows are now regarded as two of the most prestigious national flower shows in the gardening calendar, attracting the top nursery exhibitors from across the UK. From the initial provincial ventures, they have blossomed into the largest national early Spring Flower Show in Britain, with attendance of around 60,000 visitors and over 35,000 visiting the premier Autumn Show.

The Autumn Show , includes a stay at the 3 star Yorkshire Hotel, in the centre of Harrogate. Three nights bed and breakfast, (leaving you free to choose where and when you wish to dine each evening in Harrogate). This tour includes a day trip to the historic city of York on Friday and admission to the Harrogate Autumn Show on Saturday.