Otley Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Otley Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Otley packs a lot into a small space. The town centre has over 100 independent shops and the market (Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays) has been running for 800 years. We love wandering through the cobbled streets and yards that branch off from Market Place.

Otley Courthouse (LS21 3AN) is worth a visit - this former magistrates court is now an arts centre with exhibitions, films and live performances. Open daily 10am-4pm except Sundays.

The real star is Otley Chevin Forest Park (LS21 3DD, open 24/7), a woodland ridge rising 280m above sea level with amazing views across Wharfedale. There's a 1.5-mile accessible path called the Chevin Forest Park Geology Trail that's great for all abilities.

Don't miss Otley Parish Church (LS21 3HW) with its 14th-century tower and impressive stained glass. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5, with visitors praising the peaceful atmosphere and historical features.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love a holiday in Otley! The Chevin Forest Park has miles of woodland paths where they can run off-lead in many areas. The White Horse pub (LS21 3AB) welcomes dogs in the bar area and even offers water bowls and treats.

Wharfemeadows Park (LS21 3AH) has lovely riverside walks and plenty of space for games of fetch. I've found most cafes in Otley town centre have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome - try Salami & Co. (LS21 3AJ) which is actually dog-focused with a special menu for four-legged visitors!

For supplies, Chevin Country Park Hotel (LS21 3NU) has a pet shop selling essentials. If your dog needs a wash after muddy walks before getting back in your hot tub cottage, Posh Paws grooming salon (LS21 3AB) offers walk-in bath services.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Otley

Otley Chevin Forest Park tops our list. This 180-hectare woodland park offers breathtaking views across the Wharfe Valley. The Surprise View lookout point is spectacular at sunset. There are multiple walking trails for all abilities and the Chevin Forest Park Visitor Centre (LS21 3DD, open 10am-4pm Wed-Sun) has maps and information. Recent visitors call it "a hidden gem" with "views that rival the Lake District".

Otley Market is the heart of the town. Running since 1222, it transforms Market Place every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday (9am-3pm). We recommend the local cheese stall and the Yorkshire bakery. Beyond produce, you'll find antiques, crafts and clothing. One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "Far better than any supermarket experience - the stallholders actually know about their products!"

Wharfemeadows Park (LS21 3AH) offers beautiful riverside walks along the Wharfe. The park has tennis courts, a skate park and a fantastic playground for kids. The riverside path extends for miles in either direction. In summer, you can hire rowing boats (£8 per half hour, 10am-5pm weekends and school holidays). Visitors consistently rate it 4.5/5, praising the "immaculate gardens" and "peaceful river views".

Is Otley good for shopping?

Yes! Otley has over 100 independent shops and very few chains. The market runs three times weekly and there are excellent butchers, bakers and gift shops. Bondgate and Kirkgate have the best concentration of independent retailers.

How far is Otley from Leeds?

Otley is 10 miles northwest of Leeds. It takes about 25 minutes by car or 30-40 minutes on the X84 bus which runs every 30 minutes from Leeds bus station.

Are there good walks from Otley?

Absolutely. The Otley Walking Festival each June showcases the best routes. Year-round, try the Six Dales Trail which starts in Otley, the Chevin Forest Park trails, or the riverside path to Burley-in-Wharfedale (4 miles).

What's the best pub in Otley?

Otley has 17 pubs! The Black Bull is the oldest (1632), while The Black Horse serves excellent food. The North Bar Social has craft beers and The Bowling Green has a great beer garden for summer evenings before heading back to your hot tub.

Is Otley good for families?

Yes, there's lots for kids including Wharfemeadows Park playground, the skate park and rowing boats in summer. The Courthouse runs family films and workshops and most restaurants have good children's menus.

When is the best time to visit Otley?

May-September offers the best weather for enjoying outdoor activities. The Otley Folk Festival (September), Victorian Fayre (December) and Otley Show (May) are highlights of the town's calendar.

1. Visit Otley Official Tourism Website
2. Chevin Forest Park Information
3. Otley Courthouse Arts Centre
4. Otley Folk Festival