New research has revealed Harrogate as the second happiest place to live in the UK.
Yes that’s right – the research, which was carried out by Furniture Box, found which locations in the UK were happiest based on a poll of 5,000 people.
And do you know where came in at a very impressive number two? Our very own Yorkshire spa town of Harrogate.
It's not hard to see why. Famed for its beautiful greenery, quaint high street and fabulous architecture, you can see why the people of Harrogate are feeling a bit chuffed to live there.
The research said: "Second place goes to Harrogate, a spa town known for its historic buildings, gardens, natural springs and food.
Image: Unsplash
"The Fat Badger and the Harrogate Tap pubs are renowned. Harrogate Grammar, Oatlands Infants and Western Primary are all rated as 'Outstanding' by Ofsted."
Coming in at number one, though, was Stratford-upon-Avon.
The medieval town that is the birthplace of William Shakespeare topped the survey: "We all know about the Royal Shakespeare Company but Stratford is so much more than a cultural attraction.
"It is a thriving community flanked by the beautiful river Avon. It has independent shops, and fantastic places to eat and drink. It's also home to some of the best state schools in the country."
Need some weekend plans?
Image: Unsplash
Just a forty minute drive from Leeds, there really is so much to do in the wonderful town of Harrogate.
Start off your day with breakfast at Betty’s Cafe and Tea Rooms before taking a stroll down the stray and taking in the beautiful views of the cherry blossom trees, then stop for lunch at Pranzo and browse the high street that is jam packed with fantastic independent shops.
You'll have a cracker of a day, and you may even leave feeling much happier than before.
A neighbourhood coffee shop were left starstruck as Stanley Tucci popped in for a brew.
It seems that even Hollywood A-listers love a trip to the beloved spa town of Ilkley.
Stanley Tucci, known for his iconic roles in The Devil Wears Prada, The Lovely Bones and The Hunger Games was seen in Ilkley yesterday, Tuesday 19 May.
Thirty Nine Coffee Company, a popular brunch spot on Ilkley's main street The Grove, welcomed Tucci and his crew for a coffee after he was spotted filming at a local pub just across the road.
Image: Thirty Nine Coffee Co
After this, it was said he went to go watch his own film The Devil Wears Prada 2 at The Ilkley Cinema.
Posting the news to Instagram, Thirty Nine Coffee Company said: "Look who popped in for a Thirty Nine coffee - awesome to meet the amazing @stanleytucci - what an amazing chap and lovely crew - so glad you enjoyed our coffee!"
Pictures were posted of Stanley taking selfies with the staff, clad in his usual trendy get-up consisting of chunky glasses, flat cap, wax jacket and scarf.
Image: Thirty Nine Coffee Co
The owners of Thirty Nine said he loved his coffee that they served him and hey, if it's good enough for Stanley then it's good enough for us.
It's not clear what he was filming in Ilkley, but the actor is known for presenting a number of foodie documentaries so it could be something to do with this. We'll keep you posted when we know more.
The UK’s leading K-pop retailer is opening its first Yorkshire store in Leeds
Clementine Hall
The Merrion Centre is set to welcome one of the UK’s fastest-growing specialist music retailers.
K-pop fans, you're going to love this one.
Soft launching on Friday 22 May, K-pop Korner Leeds will open initially as a pop-up store, becoming the brand’s fourth UK location and its first in the north of England.
Recognised as the UK’s leading dedicated K-pop retailer, K-pop Korner stocks official K-pop albums, signed albums, light sticks and rare collectibles imported directly from Korea.
Not only that, but the brand has developed a strong national following through fan events, trading days, concerts and exclusive product launches.
The Leeds opening follows the success of K-pop Korner’s existing stores in London Waterloo, London Euston and Nottingham, with growing demand from fans across Yorkshire and the north driving the expansion.
Anastasia Tsappis, Director of K-pop Korner, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring K-pop Korner to Leeds and finally create a dedicated space for fans in Yorkshire and the North of England. Community has always been at the heart of what we do and we’re looking forward to building a welcoming environment where fans can meet, discover new merchandise, celebrate their favourite artists and enjoy special events together.
“Our community has been asking for a more accessible location outside London and the Midlands for a long time, so Leeds felt like the natural next step. The Merrion Centre stood out because of its vibrant atmosphere, fantastic city-centre location and strong connection to entertainment and youth culture.
“We want the opening to feel like more than just a store launch. It’s about celebrating K-pop fandom and creating memorable experiences for the local community. We’re especially excited to see fans come together for our opening events and experience the energy and excitement that makes K-pop culture so special.”
Clementine Hall -
21st November 2024 
