Harrogate duo create series of new events to celebrate town’s independent food scene

Two local business owners have teamed up to launch a series of special food-themed events in Harrogate.

Kay Atkinson is the founder of food tour company Yorkshire Appetite Food Tours, and Marieanne is a Yorkshire Appetite guide and owner of Harrogate-based vintage business, Totally Exquisite.

Together, they have created Yorkshire Appetite After Hours. These new events go beyond Yorkshire Appetite’s regular tours, offering something a little different for anyone who loves food.

Kay said: “It’s something we’ve been thinking about doing for a while. Harrogate is an incredible foodie destination, and we wanted to give people the chance to enjoy a wider range of food-centred events in the town.

“We hope they give people memorable nights out with some fellow foodies, while celebrating Harrogate’s food scene.”

Marieanne added: “After Hours isn’t just about dining, it's about bringing people together. It’s a chance to meet new faces, share stories and enjoy exceptional food and experiences in the heart of Harrogate.

“Promoting independent businesses is part of Yorkshire Appetite’s ethos, and all of our new events are a collaboration between local businesses.”

After Hours combines Kay’s eight years of experience running a food tour company with Marieanne’s vintage expertise and hospitality background from working in Mayfair, London.

They are kicking off After Hours with three different themed events. For their first experience, they’ve collaborated with Paul Forster from Harrogate Ghost Walks for a series of ghost and food tours.

Eerie Evenings will run every Thursday night between 20th November and 18th December. Starting with a slice of pizza and beer in Starling, guests will then explore the town’s spookier side with Paul. The night will end with mulled wine in Hales Bar, known to be home to more than one ghost.

Kay said: “Paul is a fantastic storyteller. I’ve experienced the ghost walks more than once, and they are great. They are a fascinating view into Harrogate’s history, and it’s best not to hear them on an empty stomach. That’s how the idea for Eerie Evenings came about.

“Ending each night in Harrogate’s oldest, and arguably most haunted, pub will be the icing on the cake.”

Paul said: “I’m thrilled to be teaming up with Yorkshire Appetite for this special After Hours experience. There’s no better way to see a different side of Harrogate than by combining great food, fascinating stories, local history and a touch of the supernatural.

“Sharing a bite to eat before a ghost walk and a drink in a haunted venue afterwards, it’s the perfect recipe for an unforgettable evening. It will be a unique experience to the town.”

The second After Hours themed events are three Vintage Shopping Experiences. Guests can spend the day exploring Harrogate’s antiques and vintage shops with Marieanne.

“I hope they give people a shopping experience with a twist, especially with the upcoming festive season,” she said.

The day will start with a hearty brunch at Starling, before Marieanne takes them around the best pre-loved spots. Shoppers will enjoy a sweet treat and hot drink along the way, finishing the day with prosecco and nibbles.

Guests can join Marieanne for a Vintage Shopping Experience on Saturday 22nd November, Saturday 29th November or Saturday 6th December.

The third event Kay and Marieanne have planned is the After Hours Supper Club on 12th February 2026. This alternative to Valentine’s Day is aimed at food enthusiasts aged 45 and above.

Marieanne said: “Harrogate is known for its love of great food, elegant spaces, and good company. The After Hours Supper Club is all about celebrating exactly that.”

The Supper Club will be hosted at William & Victoria. Diners will be treated to a three-course meal and welcome drink, while they soak up the sociable atmosphere and make new connections.

All Yorkshire Appetite After Hours events can be booked via Eventbrite. Kay and Marieanne will be launching more events in 2026, so keep an eye out on Instagram at www.instagram.com/yorkshireappetite.

For more information about Yorkshire Appetite and to book a food tour, visit www.yorkshireappetite.com. For Totally Exquisite’s vintage finds, visit www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TotallyExquisite.