Harrogate

• Tipped off by the local TI, we enjoyed a rare “open house” at the recently restored Royal Hall. Opened in 1903, the venue was badly in need of TLC the last time we set eyes upon it. Today its appearance is truly splendid:
  

  

  Only scaffolding and lighting for a special performance temporarily mar the perfect restoration:
  

  

  

  Even the ceiling was beautifully redecorated:
  

  

  Anyone for box seats?
  

  

  We never revisit Harrogate without strolling as often as possible through Valley Gardens, a real favorite of ours. On this chilly but sunny day, families were out in force, reveling in the sunshine:
  

  

  

  

  Another beauty spot we can never see too often is Harlow Carr Gardens:
  

  

  Besides the magnificence outdoors, the Gift Shop has lovely things to ogle and Betty’s Tea Room has delicious treats to savor. Our visit to Harlow Carr was thanks to our dear friends, Frank and Flo (pictured below in their new home, overlooking the green swath of Harrogate’s Stray):
  

  

  We were pleased to get reacquainted with Roy and Hazel, friends we initially met in dance classes, and enjoy their warm hospitality:
  

  

  Happily, during this visit always-fun David and Beryl were in town for a lively get-together:
  

  

  More luck --- we found Frank and Joan at home. These two manage to split their year between living in Harrogate and living in the States: