Boroughbridge is a small market town in the Harrogate district of North Yorkshire, located on the A1 and at the time of the 2011 census had a population of 4,481 people. The town stands on the River Ure which is crossed by a bridge thought to have been built in the 13th century. The historic town centre has a mix of 18th, 19th and 20th century buildings and the main shopping street follows a long narrow course to the former market site at the top of the town. There are several other places of note including the parish church of St James, the Hermitage, a Victorian folly, Ure Bank caravan site and the remains of Boroughbridge Roman Fort.
1. Boroughbridge parks and places for a walk on a first date
For those looking to explore the town and its surrounds on a first date, there are plenty of outdoors options. Boroughbridge has three main parks – the Riverside Park, the Celia Crossley Park and the William Taylor Park. The Riverside Park offers a range of activities including a play area for children, a skatepark and a riverside walk. The Celia Crossley Park is mainly a grassy space with a play area and picnic benches, ideal for an afternoon stroll. Finally, the William Taylor Park is a sports ground and the location of the annual Boroughbridge Fair. For those who wish to venture a little further, the Hermitage is a beautiful woodland walk with views of the River Ure and the remains of a Victorian folly. Another nearby attraction is the Boroughbridge Roman Fort which was once the site of a key military garrison and is now a heritage site with a visitor centre.
2. Places for a coffee date in Boroughbridge
If you’re looking for a more relaxed date and a nice cup of coffee, there are plenty of options in Boroughbridge. The main shopping street has a range of independent cafes and restaurants, most of which serve hot drinks and light snacks. There is also a popular café and bakery where you can pick up a freshly-made sandwich, or a piece of cake, for an afternoon treat.
3. Boroughbridge galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Boroughbridge is home to a number of galleries and exhibitions which offer an interesting way to spend a first date. The Museum and Gallery at the Old Court House is a local history museum with a range of artefacts and photographs documenting the town and its people. The nearby Byland Abbey Visitor Centre holds a fascinating collection of artefacts and other displays, as well as a tea room and a gift shop.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Boroughbridge
If you’re looking for something a bit more exciting for a first date, then there are plenty of live music and entertainment venues in Boroughbridge. The Jelli Records café bar is a music venue and bar that offers live music from local and touring acts as well as specialist DJ nights. The Bridge Inn is another popular venue for music, comedy and theatre productions.
5. Boroughbridge pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Boroughbridge has a range of pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from for a first date. The Chamber Inn is a traditional pub with a cosy atmosphere and a range of beers and spirits, while The Black Bull offers a more modern pub experience which includes several live music nights. For those looking to sit down for a meal, the Riverside Bistro is a popular spot with a menu of modern British food.
6. Other date ideas to try in Boroughbridge
If you want to try something different, then Boroughbridge also has a few other ideas to explore. The Flower and Produce Show is an annual event held at the William Taylor Park, which attracts visitors from far and wide to see the various flower and vegetable displays. The town also has several nature reserves and reserves, including the nearby Coneysthorpe and Garrowby Hill, which are ideal for an afternoon walk or picnic. Finally, for a bit of relaxation, there are also a few local spas and health centres to visit.
