Harrogate might be best known for its elegant spa heritage and afternoon teas, but don’t be fooled - this Yorkshire town has a seriously cool bar scene hiding behind its genteel façade. From secret doorways leading to moody lairs to rooftop terraces serving up creative concoctions with a view, we’re diving into the town’s most exciting, eccentric, and downright brilliant bars. So, if you’re looking to swap your usual pint for something more adventurous, read on - Harrogate’s cool bars have a few surprises up their sleeve.
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Top Quirky Bars In Harrgoate
1. MOJO
- Where: 49-51 Parliament Street, HG1 2RE
On the hunt for cool and quirky bars in Harrogate town centre? MOJO is where rock 'n' roll energy meets epic nights out. Originally born in Leeds, it's been shaking up nights since 1996 with killer cocktails, ice-cold beers, and a soundtrack packed with legendary guitar anthems.
Whether you’re here to sip on expertly crafted drinks or challenge your mates at beer pong, shuffleboard, AR darts, and more, this is the ultimate playground for those who like their nights loud and full of action. Ready to take centre stage? The neon-lit karaoke setup lets you belt out your favourite tunes from any genre, with a Singa song library so you can prep your setlist in advance. At just £10 each per hour, it's the perfect way to bring the house down on your next night out.
You can even hire out MOJO's roof terrace for private parties and enjoy pretty views.
2. Hidden Lounge
- Where: 21 Cheltenham Crescent, HG1 1DH
Nestled in the heart of Harrogate, Hidden
Lounge is an independent cocktail bar that exudes retro
charm with its floral wallpaper and plush velvet furnishings.
You're transported through the decades with a vibrant atmosphere
underscored by the best hits from the 60s to the 90s. The bar
boasts a diverse cocktail menu, featuring both potent classics and
creative concoctions.
Beyond its enticing drinks, it offers live music performances and DJ sets, which makes it a top choice when it comes to cool and quirky bars in Harrogate for couples. When you need a romantic date night spot, venture over for jazz and blues aplenty.
Dress up in your glad rags and discover Hidden Lounge.
3. Hera Cocktail Lounge
- Where: 54 Parliament Street, HG1 2RL
Hera Cocktail Lounge, tucked away in Harrogate's vibrant nightlife scene, offers an unparalleled party experience where expertly crafted cocktails meet non-stop music, keeping the energy alive into the early hours. With a license extending until 4am on weekends, this party spot ensures that the night is always young. The lounge hosts a variety of themed bottomless brunch events, such as the nostalgic Back to the 90's, ABBA-inspired Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, and high-energy Coyote Ugly.
Each event includes two hours of unlimited drinks and a delectable brunch dish, followed by lively dance floor festivities. Regular weekend events feature Guilty Pleasures Fridays with DJ Sean Harris spinning 90s and 00s hits, and Divine Saturdays with DJ Max Czernik delivering the latest chart and house tracks.
Sink pink drinks at Hera Cocktail Lounge and learn to make them yourself as part of one of its classes.
4. Major Tom's Social
- Where: 3 The Ginnel, HG1 2RB
Tucked away above Space Vintage, Major Tom’s Social is Harrogate’s ultimate 'youth club for grown-ups' - a laid-back, effortlessly cool hangout where craft beer, stone-baked pizza, and retro vibes reign supreme. Since launching in 2014, it’s built a legendary reputation.
Think local ales, premium spirits, barista-level coffee, and fridges stacked with takeout beer (30% off, by the way), all served up in a space brimming with board games, Pac-Man, and eclectic tunes. But it isn’t just about great food and drink - it’s a hub of music, art, and all things fun. One night you might be grooving to live music, another you could be geeking out at a film night, quiz night, or even a Q&A with an author.
At Major Tom's Social, you can play board games with your mates and enjoy some great IPAs.
5. The Pickled Sprout
- Where: 1 John Street, HG1 1JZ
Step into The Pickled Sprout, where botanical beauty meets bold flavours at one of the top cool and quirky bars in Harrogate city centre. Tucked inside The Yorkshire Hotel, this lush and opulent restaurant-bar is led by head chef David Davies. And when it comes to drinks? Harrogate’s very own Bar Person of the Year, Kieran Long, has curated a cocktail menu that’s pure magic.
From a Midnight in Tokyo to a mezcal-based old fashioned, expect creative sips, handpicked wines, and a stellar selection of local and international beers. Stop by for a post-work unwind, a lively weekend party, or a cheeky 2-for-£14 cocktail deal (because why not?).
Whatever your mood, The Pickled Sprout is a breath of fresh air - literally.
6. Bacchus Wine & Cocktail Bar
- Where: 90 Station Parade, HG1 1HQ
For a sip of sophistication in Harrogate, Bacchus Wine & Cocktail Bar is the place to be. Nestled on Station Parade, this stylish, intimate bar is a haven for wine lovers, cocktail connoisseurs, and those who simply appreciate a relaxed, refined atmosphere. It fronts over 40 wines by the glass - sourced from Europe, South America, and beyond - plus expertly crafted cocktails and an impressive whisky selection.
Whether you're unwinding with a 2-4-1 cocktail during happy hour, savouring a bottle of fine wine, or enjoying live music on a Friday night, this cool and quaint venue brings a touch of class without the fuss. Pair your drink with small plates and sharing boards, settle into the laid-back table service, and let the night unfold.
Bookings and walk-ins are welcome at Bacchus Wine & Cocktail Bar - just bring your good taste.
7. Blue's Bar
- Where: 4 Montpellier Parade, HG1 2TJ
For the sweet sound of sax, this retro den hits the spot; Blues Bar is the town's ultimate destination for live music enthusiasts and foodies alike. With live performances seven days a week, including three sessions on Sundays, the venue offers an eclectic mix of genres that keeps the atmosphere vibrant and the crowd energised.
Upstairs, the Gin Bar and Yorkshire Tapas restaurant provide a cosy retreat where you can tuck into delicious meals while enjoying the live music streamed on a large TV screen. With four handpumps dispensing beers, mostly from local breweries, and a selection of wines and spirits, there's a tipple for everyone's tastes.
Gather your friends and catch a jam night at this live music bar.
8. Roland's
- Where: 23 Parliament Street, HG1 2QU
Tucked away in the heart of Harrogate, Roland’s is the kind of bar where expertly crafted cocktails, laid-back charm, and modern interiors (think pendant lighting and lush foliage) come together. This intimate drinking den takes its mixology seriously, serving elegant classics alongside imaginative creations - think pear and fig gin with quince liqueur or a Bourbon Milk Punch that’s as smooth as it is indulgent.
With a menu that effortlessly blends the refined with the unexpected, this is a haven for cocktail lovers - and it's also pooch-friendly. Whether you’re sipping on their famed espresso martini (rumoured to be the best in town) or indulging in a classic Champagne cocktail that oozes sophistication, every drink is a perfectly balanced masterpiece.
Roland's cocktails are fresh, seasonal, and just the right amount of daring.
9. The Den
- Where: Nidderdale House, Cambridge Road, HG1 1NS
The Den is the town’s only truly independent live music and sports bar - and trust us, it’s got attitude. Established in 2012, this underground hotspot has built a cult following for its electric atmosphere, stacked entertainment lineup, and all-around good vibes.
Live music is the heartbeat of this venue, with bands and artists from around the world rocking the stage on the regular - and most of the time, it’s completely free. Combine that with five premium pool tables, a dartboard, two giant projectors, and multiple HD screens showing all the big sporting action, and you’ve got yourself an unbeatable night out.
The Den is packed with memorabilia, a nod to its history and its regulars.
10. Papito's Bar
- Where: John Street, HG1 1JZ
When it comes to a relaxed glass of wine in the heart of Harrogate, Papito's Bar on John Street beckons us with refreshing tipples. This effortlessly cool hideaway is all about top-quality drinks, good vibes, and zero pretension. No bookings, no fuss - just roll in, grab a seat inside or out on the streetside patio and enjoy a well-earned drink.
Cocktails? Crafted to perfection. Beers? Only the best. Atmosphere? Always buzzing. Whether you’re kicking back for an after-work tipple, starting your night with a bang, or settling in ‘til last orders, Papito’s welcomes you with open arms (and a very well-stocked bar).
Soak up the unique, easy-going energy that makes Papito’s a must-visit in Harrogate.
Fan of the mysterious? Check out our guide to secret bars in the UK.
