Studley Hotel and Orchid Restaurant

This small hotel manages to blend traditional and contemporary decor with Asian touches. The pale stone exterior is typical of buildings in the area, with whitewashed window frames and gray tiles. Interiors have precisely the intimate vibe that travelers might expect from a boutique hotel in this charming little town. There's a cozy lounge just off the lobby, stylishly lined with striped sofas and a traditional fireplace. The hotel has plenty of communal areas for guests to relax in, including a chic cocktail bar with a modern back-lit bar and an outdoor patio with wood-topped tables and chairs. The Orchid restaurant is small -- meaning it's frequently busy in the evenings -- so guests should book ahead for dinner. But that buzzing reputation is part of the appeal of a stay here. The hotel's romantic atmosphere attracts a large number of couples, though many business travelers stay here during the week. 

The hotel is located in a quiet area of Harrogate away from the busy town center, just a five-minute walk from upmarket shops, bars, and restaurants, including the popular Betty's Tea Rooms. It's conveniently located next to Valley Gardens, a picturesque park with a children's play area, tennis court, and Art Deco sun dial. The Mercer Art Gallery is just across the road, while the famous Moorish-style Turkish Baths & Health Spa is just a few minutes from the hotel on foot. The Harrogate Theater and Harrogate Convention Center are also within walking distance, while Knaresborough Castle and Kirkstall Abbey are both around 30 minutes away by car. Harrogate Rail Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, while Leeds Bradford International Airport is roughly a 30-minute drive. 

The Studley Hotel has a total of 28 rooms, including one spacious suite with lovely views of Valley Gardens. All are individually designed in a contemporary style, with neutral tones, gray carpets, bold feature walls, huge padded headboards, and simple dark wood furniture. Flat-screen TVs with Freeview channels, electric kettles, free Wi-Fi, phones, and ironing facilities come standard, while upgraded rooms add king-size beds, separate seating areas, and winning touches like laptop safes, iPod docking stations, and mini-fridges with fresh milk. Guests should note that all rooms lack air-conditioning, though fans are available on request. Bathrooms are modern, but small, with unusual sunken shower/tub combos, heated towel racks, toiletries, and towels. Most rooms are quiet due to the location, but rear-facing rooms get less traffic noise. 

Despite this hotel's small stature, some of the few features that it offers are particularly welcome. Its restaurants tops that list. The Orchid Restaurant serves excellent pan-Asian cuisine in a modern, intimate setting. It's open for lunch and dinner, though it's best to book ahead as it gets very busy with locals as well as hotel guests. The O Bar is small, with modern interiors, serving light snacks and classic cocktails in a chic setting. Guests can also relax in the cozy lounge next to the lobby or on the outdoor patio, which is lovely in the summer months. Breakfast is available for a fee, consisting of cooked options like smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, plus a continental buffet with tea and coffee. Room service is available during limited hours. There are no fitness or spa facilities at the hotel, but guests receive free passes for the local gym. Business travelers are well-catered to, with a computer station and two private meeting rooms, each with high-speed internet and modern equipment. Free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking are both available, though spaces are limited.