Harrogate Borough Council

A significant part of the tourist industry in the Harrogate area, and indeed regionally, is generated by the conference and exhibition business (business tourism) operated by Harrogate International Centre. HIC hosts a varied events calendar, including conferences, exhibitions, banqueting and entertainments, throughout the year in its multi purpose venue. Exhibition space comprises 16,500 sq m across eight halls, as well as the new Queen's Suite developed in direct response to clients' needs providing a main hall seating 600 theatre style, divisible into various combinations of up to ten individual sound proof rooms. The auditorium has a seating capacity for up to 2,000.

 

The Sun Pavilion, located in the Valley Gardens, is a new acquisition to the HIC portfolio offering a unique art deco style venue restored to its 1930's splendour, including the domed stained glass roof. The Sun Pavilion can host events of all kinds, seating 120 guests/delegates in banquet formation, 200 buffet style and with a capacity for 20 exhibition stands. For more information contact Andrew Lane on 01423 537220.

 

The Royal Hall, which reopens in April 2008 after an £8m restoration programme, is also within HIC's portfolio, offering yet more venue options to business tourism clients and local community groups. The Royal Hall has a seating capacity of over 1,100 with 500 removable seats to create a large exhibition space or dance floor. To discuss venue hire telephone Penny Valentine on 01423 537209.

 

Investment continues at Harrogate International Centre with a £45m redevelopment programme planned over the next five to six years, increasing exhibition space by a further 2,000 sq m, plus substantial cosmetic improvements and the creation of an outdoor piazza. To see architect drawings and for further information visit http://www.thehicvision.co.uk/

Business and holiday tourism visitor days to the Harrogate District totalled 6.4m million days in 2006, with over 284,925 enquiries handled by the six Tourist Information Centres in the district during the same period. Total direct visitor spend (business and holiday tourism) in the District in 2006 was £331m.