Transport on the Otley Run Pub Crawl

Transport for the Otley Run: Getting Around Leeds on Your Pub Crawl Adventure

The Otley Run is an iconic pub crawl that stretches from Headingley to Leeds city centre, offering participants a lively journey through some of the city’s most beloved pubs. However, covering this distance, especially with a few pints along the way, requires some logistical planning. Transport for the Otley Run can involve a mix of walking, buses, and taxis, depending on where you start, where you finish, and how many stops you want to make along the way.

This guide covers all the key transport options available, helping you navigate the route safely and efficiently while making the most of your Otley Run experience.

1. Walking: The Traditional Way

For most participants, the Otley Run is primarily a walking affair. The route, which begins in Headingley and stretches towards the city centre, is around two to three miles long, depending on the exact pubs you choose to visit. The distance is manageable for most people, and walking from pub to pub allows for time to enjoy the scenery, take in the atmosphere, and sober up slightly between drinks.

Pros: Walking is free, gives you the flexibility to set your own pace, and provides a chance to explore Leeds at street level. You’ll pass through some charming neighbourhoods, including Headingley and Hyde Park, which have a rich history and vibrant student population.
Cons: Depending on the weather and how many stops you make, walking the entire Otley Run can become tiring. Leeds is hilly in parts, and after a few drinks, some participants may find the trek a bit more challenging, especially towards the end of the night.

For those who enjoy a leisurely pub crawl and don’t mind the exercise, walking the entire route is the most traditional and popular option.

2. Buses: Quick and Easy Transport

While walking is part of the fun, there are times when you might want to speed things up, especially if you’re running short on time or feeling the effects of a few too many drinks. Fortunately, Leeds has an excellent bus network, making it easy to hop between stops on the Otley Run.

First Leeds Buses: First Leeds operates most of the bus routes that serve the Otley Run area. The number 1 and 6 buses are particularly useful, as they run frequently along the Otley Road corridor, passing through Headingley, Hyde Park, and into the city centre.
Bus Stops: Most of the pubs along the Otley Run are located near bus stops, making it easy to jump on and off without having to walk too far. For example, you can catch a bus near Woodies or The Three Horseshoes in Headingley, then get off near the Hyde Park Pub, skipping the long walk in between.
Fares: A single bus ticket in Leeds typically costs around £2.50, but you can save money by purchasing a day rider ticket, which offers unlimited bus travel for the day. This is ideal if you plan on using the bus multiple times throughout your crawl.
Night Buses: If you’re finishing your Otley Run late at night, some routes offer night services, but they may be less frequent than during the day. Plan ahead and check the bus schedules to ensure you don’t miss the last bus home.

3. Taxis: Convenience and Comfort

For groups who prefer a more convenient and comfortable option, taxis are a great way to travel between pubs on the Otley Run, particularly if you want to save energy for the later stages of the crawl.

Taxi Services: Leeds is well-served by taxi companies, and you’ll find plenty of black cabs and private hire vehicles throughout the city. Some popular taxi firms in Leeds include Amber Cars, City Cabs, and Uber. If you’re in a hurry or need to get to a specific stop quickly, taxis can be a great choice.
Cost: Taxi fares in Leeds are reasonable, and splitting the cost between a group of friends can make this option surprisingly affordable. For example, a taxi from Headingley to Leeds city centre will typically cost around £10 to £15, depending on the time of day and traffic. Keep in mind that prices can increase at night, especially on weekends when demand is higher.
Availability: You can hail a black cab from the street or book a private hire taxi via an app like Uber. It’s usually easy to find taxis around Headingley and the city centre, but if you’re travelling during peak times (such as Friday or Saturday evenings), it’s a good idea to book in advance.
Short Journeys: If you only need to travel between a few pubs, taxis can also be useful for short hops, especially if you’re in a large group and want to avoid long walks. For example, you could take a taxi from Skyrack in Headingley to The Library Pub near the University of Leeds, saving time and energy.

4. Cycling: A Sustainable Option

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly and active mode of transport, cycling can be a fun and sustainable way to navigate the Otley Run. Leeds has invested in improving its cycling infrastructure in recent years, making it easier for cyclists to get around the city.

Bike Rentals: Leeds offers a number of bike rental services, including Nextbike, which has stations throughout the city. You can rent a bike by the hour or for the day, and some of the bike rental stations are located near key Otley Run pubs, making it easy to pick up or drop off bikes as needed.
Pros: Cycling allows you to cover more ground quickly, and it’s a great way to burn off some of those pub crawl calories. It’s also a sustainable option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the Otley Run.
Cons: Cycling after a few drinks can be risky, so this option is best suited to those who plan on pacing themselves or sticking to non-alcoholic drinks. Leeds’ hilly terrain can also be a challenge for less experienced cyclists.
Safety: If you do choose to cycle, make sure to follow the city’s cycling rules, wear a helmet, and avoid riding on busy roads when possible. Otley Road is a major route with a lot of traffic, so cyclists should be cautious when navigating this area, especially at night.

5. Planning Your Journey

Whether you choose to walk, take the bus, hop in a taxi, or cycle, it’s important to plan your journey in advance. Here are some tips to help you stay on track during your Otley Run:

Map Your Route: Before setting off, use Google Maps or a similar app to map out your pub crawl route. This will help you stay oriented and ensure you don’t miss any key stops along the way.
Check Bus and Taxi Availability: If you plan on using public transport or taxis, check schedules and availability in advance, especially if you’re crawling late into the night. Knowing the last bus times or pre-booking a taxi can save you from getting stranded.
Stay Safe: Drinking responsibly is key to enjoying the Otley Run safely. Make sure you pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and keep an eye on your friends. If anyone in your group needs a break, don’t hesitate to call a taxi or take a bus to the next stop.
Weather Considerations: Leeds is known for its unpredictable weather, so be prepared for rain, especially if you’re walking between pubs. Bring a light jacket or umbrella to stay comfortable, and if the weather takes a turn for the worse, public transport is a great fallback option.

Conclusion

Transport on the Otley Run is flexible, with a range of options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Whether you decide to walk the full route, hop on a bus for a few stops, or treat yourself to a taxi ride, there are plenty of ways to navigate this legendary pub crawl. With the right planning, you’ll be able to enjoy all the fun and camaraderie of the Otley Run while making sure everyone gets around safely.