The Exercise Stadium

Right on the edge of Harrogate sits a sports facility that's been part of the town's athletic life for years. The Exercise Stadium is what it says on the tin - a proper venue for track and field events, with a running track and facilities that draw competitors from across the region. Whether you're a keen runner, a parent wanting to watch your kid compete, or just someone with a soft spot for grassroots athletics, there's something to see here depending on what's on.

The reality is this isn't a major visitor attraction in the way a castle or museum might be. You'll get the most from a visit if there's an actual event scheduled - check ahead because without a meet or training session on, it's just an empty stadium. Local athletic clubs use it regularly, so there's usually something happening during the week. It's free to watch from the stands when events are running.

If you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks - Harrogate Caravan Park is less than a mile away, or Rudding Holiday Park just over the road - it makes a handy half-hour diversion. The town itself has far more to offer for a proper day out: Turkish baths, the Stray for walking, decent high street. But if you've got athletics enthusiasts in the family or you're interested in grassroots sports, an afternoon here fits neatly between bigger plans. Ring ahead though - you don't want to show up to an empty track.