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Thriving market town on the River Wharfe
This delightful town and the surrounding countryside has been an inspiration for artists and the film industry for many years. As you wander through the charming streets, don’t be surprised if you recognise scenes from Emmerdale, Heartbeat and The Chase. Or visit the Turner Trail, running through Caley Crags and Otley Chevin, to discover scenes that inspired the famous Impressionist artist to paint some of his most well known works. For history lovers, it is also the birthplace of the world-famous furniture maker, Thomas Chippendale and home to the Wharfedale Printing Machine.
Carnivals, Festivals and Shows
Otley has a varied programme of annual events with attractions for all the family. These start in May with Otley Show, believed to be the oldest agricultural show in the country. This is followed by such diverse events as the Otley Carnival, the Otley Walking Festival, the Cycle Races (part of the National Elite Series), the Folk Festival, Beer Festival and finally culminating in December with the delightful Victorian Fayre.
Markets and local delicacies
If you fancy treating yourself to some delicious local food, Otley’s street market runs three times per week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and the Farmers’ Market runs on the last Sunday of every month. Keeping their culinary heritage alive, Otley’s many independently owned businesses pride themselves on excellent service, from award winning butchers and bakers to specialist shops and high street chains. The town’s traditional pubs and inns offer good food and a range of beers, so there’s no doubt that you’ll leave with your thirst and hunger fully quenched!
Country life
The River Wharfe runs through the heart of the town, leading to the attractive Riverside Park which offers some stunning walks, whilst the wooded moorland of Chevin Forest Park provides spectacular views over the town and surrounding countryside. Otley is a ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town, which means it offers plenty of accommodation, from spa hotels to B&Bs, so enjoy an active day off-road biking in Chevin Country Park, take a journey into the past on the Heritage Time Trail, then relax in your peaceful accommodation, ready to do it all again tomorrow!
Discover More: Otley & West Yorkshire.