Harrogate is at its best in spring and early summer. Valley Gardens and the Stray are famous for their spring bulb displays — crocuses in late February, daffodils in March and April, and rhododendrons through May. The Harrogate Spring Flower Show, held in April in the Valley Gardens, is one of the largest horticultural shows in the north of England and draws big crowds.
Summer brings the Great Yorkshire Show in July, a major agricultural show held at the Great Yorkshire Showground on the edge of town — three days of livestock, showjumping, and rural crafts attended by around 130,000 people. It makes accommodation difficult and expensive; book well ahead if your visit coincides with it.
Autumn and winter are quieter and pleasant. The town's conference trade is year-round, which means hotels are busy mid-week throughout the year. Weekends are generally easier. Yorkshire weather is what it is: expect rain at any time of year, and pack layers.