Discover Otley
Sitting on the border between West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire in the beautiful countryside of Lower Wharfedale, Otley is a thriving market town with plenty to offer. Just 10 miles from Leeds, this pretty town is steeped in tradition – from the monthly Farmers’ Market to the quaint All Saints’ Church and picturesque Otley Chevin Country Park.
Otley provides an authentic Yorkshire experience that leaves visitors with lasting memories.
Accommodation in Otley
Browse a range of places to stay in and around Otley with our visitor’s guide to staying near the town. See our dedicated hotel page for Otley.
Stylish, spacious 1 bedroomed maisonette in Otley.
3 Courthouse Street, Otley, LS21 3AN, United Kingdom
Otley image gallery
Attractions in Otley
There’s plenty of things to do in and around Otley. It’s a market town, with lots of food & drink as well as good quality shopping too. Take a stroll or bike ride up the hill above the town (The Chevin) where you will be rewarded with magnificent Wharfedale views, or sip a pint in one of the town’s several pubs and cafes for an easier time. Perhaps combine the two for the ultimate visit!
Fact Pack – Otley, West Yorkshire
- Otley is a market town and civil parish located in West Yorkshire, England.
- The town is situated in the Lower Wharfedale valley, a region known for its beautiful landscapes.
- Otley is known for its historic architecture, including many buildings dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
- The town is home to the Otley Chevin Forest Park, a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Otley has a rich history, with archaeological evidence suggesting the area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age.
- The town was once a key center for the wool trade, which greatly contributed to its growth and development.
- Otley is home to the famous Otley Folk Festival, which attracts musicians and visitors from around the world.
- The town has a strong sporting culture, with several local rugby, football, and cricket clubs.
- Otley is the birthplace of famous furniture maker Thomas Chippendale, and a statue of him stands in the town centre.
- The town is also known for its traditional pubs, with more than 20 located within the town center.
Otley on the map
FAQs about Otley
What is “The Chevin”?
According to Wikipedia, “The Chevin is the name given to the ridge on the south side of Wharfedale in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England”. Simply put, the Chevin is the hill next to Otley. A lot of people also call it “Otley Chevin”. As Otley is a part of the City of Leeds administrative region, this is why Wikipedia says it is “in Leeds” though it is more accurately
Where Next after Otley?
Burley in Wharfedale is just up the A65, and also you’ll find Leeds Bradford Airport is basically 5-10 minutes up the road near Yeadon, making Otley a very accessible town for those visiting Leeds and the surrounding area.
What can I do when visiting Otley, West Yorkshire?
There are many things to do in Otley. You can explore the historic Otley Courthouse, visit the local farmers market, enjoy a walk along the River Wharfe, or hike in the nearby Chevin Forest Park. The town also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs to enjoy.
Where next after Otley?
Otley is perfectly placed for a trip to Leeds, Bradford or Ilkley. Alternatively, you could explore the historic spa town of Harrogate, famous for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and the stunning RHS Harlow Carr gardens. If you’re a fan of the Brontë sisters, a trip to the quaint village of Haworth is a must. It’s home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, where the literary sisters spent most of their lives. For nature lovers, the Yorkshire Dales is nearby, offering breathtaking landscapes and numerous walking trails. All these destinations are within easy reach and offer a taste of the diverse experiences Yorkshire has to offer.
