The British Baden-Baden, Harrogate – whose sulphurous spa water is arguably unrivalled in unpleasantness – is a place of solid Victorian architecture, but also a wealth of facilities that grew up to cater for those taking the cure, now offering diversion for the happy hordes attending conferences and exhibitions at the Harrogate International Centre, and for the lucky locals. A multitude of excellent independent and rather classy shops beckon seductively; Bettys Tea Rooms and many top-notch restaurants feed the inner-self, and the 200 acres of The Stray feed the spirit. This is a green place where you can breathe deep in the centre itself, or venture out to the Dales to breathe deeper.