Schools and Schooldays in Harrogate
West Park United Reformed Church, Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 1BL
For the majority of its children Harrogate had a range of church, board and then council schools, the earliest dating back to the late eighteenth century. But it was also a centre for private schools, including for boarders, two of which are still open, Ashville and Duchy College, formerly Harrogate Ladies' College. The exhibition looks at all the schools and aspects of life at school, including the curriculum, attendance and discipline. It is based on research for Paul Jennings' recently-published book, "Schools and Schooldays in Nineteenth Century Harrogate" (Carnegie, 2026) which complements and will be available for purchase at the exhibition. Paul will give a short talk at 11:00 and 14:00 (no pre-booking required). The exhibition will remain in place on Sat, Mon, Wed, Fri and Sat 19th, 1030-1530.
Timings
- Friday 11 September:
- 10:30 - 15:00
Location & directions
West Park United Reformed Church, Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 1BL
- Directions:
- West Park United Reformed Church is at the junction of West Park with Victoria Avenue. Best approached on foot, there is on-street metered parking on Victoria Avenue and the nearest chargeable car-parks are on Tower Street.
- Contact on day:
- Kevin Hales
- Telephone number:
- +447768343999
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Wheelchair access is via the ramp at the side of the church on Victoria Avenue. There are limited disabled/accessible parking spaces (non-designated) at the front of the church, with entry through the gate on Victoria Avenue. Registered assistance dogs are welcome.
Additional information
The exhibition is held in the West Park Centre community hub at West Park United Reformed Church and visitors will also be able to view the semi-permanent “Harrogate Story” displays and archive films relating to the town, and admire the Grade II listed church, completed in 1862. There is a small on-site café. The exhibition and optional talk are free of charge, but if you would like to support us you may donate to our Harrogate Heritage and Community Development Project (West Park Centre), an independent charity registered with the Charity Commission (1216395).
