The Otley Run

A Legendary Pub Crawl Experience in Leeds

The Origins and Evolution of the Otley Run Pub Crawl

The Otley Run takes its name from Otley Road, a major route that connects Leeds with the nearby market town of Otley. However, the original Otley Run was not strictly confined to the route we know today. It began decades ago as an informal pub crawl that stretched from Otley itself into the centre of Leeds. Over time, as transportation and convenience took priority, the starting point moved closer to the university area, creating the modern version of the Otley Run.

While the exact origins of the crawl are unclear, it has been a staple of student life at Leeds universities (the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University) since at least the 1960s. Today, the Otley Run is not only popular with students but also a favourite activity for birthday parties, stag and hen dos, sports teams, and anyone looking to embrace a bit of fun and frivolity.

The Otley Run Route

The traditional Otley Run consists of around 15 to 18 pubs, although the number can vary depending on which route you follow and how many pubs are open at any given time. Most participants start in Headingley, a vibrant student area, and make their way towards the city centre. Some of the most well-known pubs on the crawl include:

• Woodies Craft Ale House: The usual starting point of the Otley Run, Woodies is a relaxed pub offering a wide range of ales and lagers. It’s an ideal place to start the journey and get into the spirit of the crawl.
• The Three Horseshoes: A traditional Yorkshire pub with a welcoming atmosphere, known for its classic pub food and local beers.
• The New Inn: Another Headingley classic, the New Inn has a large beer garden and offers a range of affordable drinks, perfect for early on in the crawl.
• The Original Oak: One of Headingley’s largest pubs, famous for its massive beer garden and bustling weekend crowds. The Oak is a staple on the route and often where fancy dress themes start to shine.
• Skyrack: Another pub that has been part of the Otley Run for decades, the Skyrack is a Leeds institution. It has a fun and lively atmosphere, making it a great stop for mid-crawl.
• The Hyde Park Pub: As you approach the university area, the Hyde Park Pub is a must-visit. Known for its student-heavy crowd, it’s a lively venue with good drinks and often marks the halfway point for many crawlers.
• The Dry Dock: This quirky bar is actually housed in a converted boat, located just outside the University of Leeds campus. It offers a unique stop on the crawl, and its boat-themed decor adds a quirky twist to the experience.
• The Fenton: A classic pub with plenty of character, The Fenton is popular among students and local punks alike, offering a relaxed stop before the final stretch.
• The Library: Despite its name, The Library is far from a place of quiet study. It’s a bustling pub where crawlers can gather for one of the final drinks of the night.
• The Eldon: Located close to Leeds General Infirmary, The Eldon is often a final stop for many Otley Runners before heading into the city centre to finish their night.

Some groups choose to extend the crawl by venturing further into the city centre, ending the night in the bars and clubs around Millennium Square or Call Lane.

Fancy Dress and Themes

One of the defining features of the Otley Run is the tradition of fancy dress. Participants rarely take part in the crawl without donning some sort of costume, and the themes can range from the simple to the outlandish. Popular themes include superheroes, animals, film characters, and professions, but really, anything goes. Part of the fun is spotting different groups along the way, each in their colourful costumes, often making for hilarious encounters as multiple themes overlap in one pub.

For many, the fancy dress element of the Otley Run is what sets it apart from a standard night out. It creates an immediate sense of camaraderie among groups and makes the entire experience feel more like a celebration.

Challenges and Etiquette on the Otley Run Pub Crawl

While the Otley Run is a lot of fun, it’s also known for being a challenge. With up to 18 pubs on the route, many participants pace themselves with smaller drinks, such as half-pints or soft drinks, at some stops. The key to a successful Otley Run is knowing your limits and drinking responsibly. It’s common to see groups slowly dwindle as the night goes on, with some members dropping out before reaching the final pub.

There are also a few unwritten rules of etiquette when taking part in the Otley Run. First and foremost, respect the pub staff and other patrons. The Otley Run can get boisterous, but it’s important to maintain a level of decorum, particularly in the quieter pubs. Fancy dress, while encouraged, should also be in good taste—offensive or overly revealing costumes can result in being denied entry at certain pubs.

Another key rule is to look out for your fellow crawlers. The Otley Run can be a marathon rather than a sprint, and it’s crucial to ensure that everyone in your group is enjoying themselves safely. With so many pubs on the route, it’s easy to lose track of people, so sticking together and checking in on each other is part of the spirit of the event.

The Cultural Impact of the Otley Run

Over the years, the Otley Run has become more than just a pub crawl; it’s a Leeds institution. It brings people together, from students and locals to visitors wanting to experience a bit of Yorkshire hospitality. It’s also had a significant impact on the local economy, with the pubs on the route benefiting from the steady stream of participants year-round, and fancy dress shops and costume suppliers thriving on the demand.

For students, in particular, the Otley Run is often a rite of passage. Whether it’s done to mark the end of exams, celebrate a birthday, or simply have a memorable night out with friends, it has become a quintessential part of the university experience in Leeds. Graduates often look back on their Otley Run adventures as some of the most fun and chaotic nights of their time in the city.

Conclusion

The Otley Run is a unique and unforgettable experience that encapsulates the fun, community spirit, and sense of adventure that Leeds is known for. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, the crawl offers something for everyone, from the thrill of dressing up to the challenge of making it through all the pubs. With its rich history, colourful characters, and the ever-present element of surprise, the Otley Run continues to be a beloved tradition in Leeds, attracting new participants year after year. This guide gives you all you need to know about this famous pub crawl including accommodation, Otley run pubs, pub crawl themes and alternative Leeds pub crawls.