Harrogate has been crowned the UK's Most Welcoming City for 2026, and it also landed a spot among the world's top 10 friendliest destinations.
The North Yorkshire spa town earned the honour in Booking.com's 14th annual Traveller Review Awards. It's the only British city to make the global list this year.
The data comes from more than 370 million verified reviews left by travellers from around the world.
This year's awards recognised a record-breaking 1.81 million travel partners across 221 countries for their outstanding hospitality.
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Harrogate was the only British destination on the list
| GETTY2026’s most welcoming cities in the world
- Montepulciano, Italy
- Magong, Taiwan
- San Martín de los Andes, Argentina
- Harrogate, United Kingdom
- Fredericksburg, Texas, United States
- Pirenópolis, Brazil
- Swakopmund, Namibia
- Takayama, Japan
- Noosa Heads, Australia
- Klaipeda, Lithuania
So what makes Harrogate stand out from the crowd? The town is famous for its elegant spa heritage, which gives it a wonderfully refined yet relaxed feel.
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Visitors love the leafy gardens and beautifully kept streets that make wandering around such a pleasure. But the data found it is really the people who make the difference here.
The friendly independent shops and cafés create a warm atmosphere that makes guests feel genuinely at home.
There is a real sense of community in Harrogate, with personal touches and hosts who go the extra mile to ensure trips become truly memorable experiences. It is that combination of charm and genuine care that sets this Yorkshire gem apart.
Montepulciano in Italy topped the rankings, celebrated for its stunning hilltop setting, wine culture, and timeless Italian charm
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Montepulciano in Italy topped the rankings, celebrated for its stunning hilltop setting, wine culture, and timeless Italian charm.
Magong in Taiwan came second, while San Martín de los Andes in Argentina took third place. Other destinations making the cut include Fredericksburg in Texas, Pirenópolis in Brazil, Swakopmund in Namibia, Takayama in Japan, Noosa Heads in Australia, and Klaipeda in Lithuania.
Takayama earned particular praise for its preserved old town and traditional Japanese hospitality.
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