Since August 19 1778, under the Enclosures Act of 1770, Harrogate town centre has been surrounded by two hundred acres of unenclosed grassland and trees known as The Stray. As protected common land, it is open for the enjoyment of all throughout the year. The Stray is a focal point for visitors to the town who enjoy walking, picnicking and discovering the many spa well heads that remain. The Stray Defence League continues to protect the rights of all to enjoy the beauty of the Stray into the future, their motto being: ’We have not inherited The Stray from our parents; we have borrowed it from our children.’