The Otley Run

Themes

Themes for the Otley Run: Creative Ideas to Elevate Your Pub Crawl Experience

The Otley Run is one of the most famous pub crawls in the UK, attracting students, locals, and visitors alike. While the pub crawl itself is a major part of the fun, what makes the Otley Run truly special is the tradition of dressing up in themed outfits. Themes add a unique element of creativity and camaraderie to the experience, turning an ordinary night out into a memorable, costumed adventure.

Whether you’re participating in the Otley Run for the first time or you’re a seasoned veteran looking for new inspiration, here are some of the best theme ideas to take your pub crawl to the next level.

1. Classic Fancy Dress Themes

Classic fancy dress themes are always popular on the Otley Run. These themes are broad and allow for plenty of personal interpretation, meaning no two costumes will be the same. Here are a few timeless ideas:

  • Superheroes: From Batman and Wonder Woman to lesser-known characters like The Flash or Deadpool, superhero themes are a hit. Participants can either dress as their favourite hero or put a creative twist on a superhero concept (e.g., “Drunk Superman”). Cape-wearing pub crawlers running between bars adds an extra element of fun and flair.
  • Pirates: Channel your inner Jack Sparrow or Blackbeard and set sail on the Otley Run as a pirate. Eye patches, fake swords, and pirate hats make for easy and effective costumes, and the theme is simple enough for everyone to get involved. Plus, you can throw in some “arrrr matey” jokes along the way.
  • Toga Party: For those who prefer something easy yet visually striking, the toga party theme is a winner. All you need is a bedsheet, some gold accessories, and sandals to complete the look. This ancient Greek-inspired theme is comfortable and fun, allowing for plenty of creative variations.
  • Cops and Robbers: The classic game of “cops and robbers” translates well into a pub crawl theme. Half the group can dress as law enforcement officers, while the others don the striped shirts and eye masks of mischievous robbers. This theme provides an opportunity for light-hearted role-playing, with some members “chasing” the others from pub to pub.

2. Film and TV Themes

Film and TV themes are perfect for groups who want to pay homage to their favourite characters or shows. These themes allow participants to re-create iconic outfits or scenes from beloved movies and TV series. Here are some great options:

  • Harry Potter: The Harry Potter theme is always a popular choice. Participants can dress as Hogwarts students, professors, or even magical creatures like house elves or Dementors. Don your house scarf, grab a wand, and enjoy a magical journey down the Otley Run. For an extra touch, split your group into houses (Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw) and see which team can handle the crawl the best.
  • Game of Thrones: Channel your inner Stark, Lannister, or Targaryen and dress as your favourite Game of Thrones character. Fur cloaks, crowns, and swords are all part of the fun. If you want to get really creative, consider bringing props like dragon eggs or a direwolf plush toy. This theme is sure to stand out, especially during colder months.
  • Star Wars: Star Wars offers a huge range of characters to choose from, whether you want to go all out as a Stormtrooper or keep it simple as a Jedi. Lightsabers and helmets make for eye-catching accessories, and the range of characters means everyone in your group can pick a unique look.
  • Disney: Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney films or the more modern Pixar offerings, the Disney theme is perfect for creating colourful, whimsical costumes. Dress up as characters from movies like “Aladdin,” “Toy Story,” or “Frozen” and enjoy a night of nostalgia. The Disney theme is light-hearted and appeals to all ages, making it a popular choice for mixed groups.

3. Decade-Themed Outfits

Decade-themed pub crawls are a great way to celebrate the fashion and culture of a specific era. These themes are also fairly easy to pull off, as most participants can assemble their costumes using thrift store finds or items they already have in their wardrobes.

  • The Roaring Twenties: Channel the glamour of the 1920s with flapper dresses, feathered headbands, and pinstriped suits. This theme adds a touch of class to your pub crawl, and the vintage style will stand out among the other revellers. Bonus points for incorporating some Charleston dance moves as you move between pubs!
  • The Swinging Sixties: The 1960s was all about bold colours, psychedelic prints, and groovy vibes. Don mini skirts, knee-high boots, or tie-dye shirts to embrace the swinging sixties theme. Sunglasses, peace signs, and flower crowns can also be added for extra flair.
  • The 1980s: For groups that want to embrace neon colours, big hair, and all things retro, the 1980s theme is a perfect choice. Leg warmers, oversized blazers, and mullet wigs are all fair game in this theme, and you can top off the look with bright makeup and funky accessories.
  • The 1990s: Relive the grunge era with flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and band T-shirts. Or, if you’re more into the pop side of the 1990s, go for crop tops, platform shoes, and metallic jackets. The 1990s was an eclectic decade, so you can pull off a wide variety of looks.

4. Sports-Themed Costumes

Sports-themed Otley Runs are always a crowd-pleaser. These themes give you the chance to rep your favourite teams, athletes, or even create your own sporting personas.

  • Football Kits: The simplest way to go about a sports theme is to wear your favourite football team’s kit. Whether it’s Leeds United, Manchester United, or Liverpool, the football kit theme is easy to pull off and helps build team spirit. If your group has divided loyalties, you can turn it into a friendly competition.
  • Olympians: Dressing up as Olympic athletes is another fun twist on the sports theme. From track stars to swimmers, this theme allows for a wide variety of costumes. You can even take it a step further by incorporating medals or creating team uniforms for your group.
  • Wimbledon Whites: For a more sophisticated sports theme, dress in all white and channel your inner tennis player. The Wimbledon theme is simple yet effective, with tennis skirts, polo shirts, and sweatbands creating a clean and classic look.

5. Occupational Themes

Occupational themes allow participants to dress up as various professionals or tradespeople. These themes are easy to pull together, and the wide range of options means that everyone can find something that suits them.

  • Doctors and Nurses: A classic occupational theme, doctors and nurses is always a popular choice. Lab coats, scrubs, and stethoscopes make for easy and recognisable costumes. You can even get creative by adding some “medical” props, such as a clipboard or fake syringe.
  • Construction Workers: Hard hats, high-vis vests, and tool belts are all you need to pull off the construction worker theme. This costume is simple but effective, and it’s easy to assemble using items you may already have at home.
  • Firefighters: If you’re looking for a heroic occupational theme, firefighters are a great option. Red jackets, helmets, and even a toy fire hose can complete the look. The firefighter theme is always a hit, especially when paired with playful props.

6. Group Themes

For those participating in the Otley Run as a large group, a unified theme can make your pub crawl even more entertaining. Here are some great group-themed ideas:

  • The Avengers: Assemble your own team of Avengers for a superhero-themed Otley Run. Each member of your group can pick a different character from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, creating a powerful team of pub crawlers.
  • Mario Kart Characters: From Mario and Luigi to Princess Peach and Bowser, Mario Kart offers a variety of quirky and colourful characters to choose from. Your group will stand out as you race from pub to pub in your video game-inspired outfits.
  • The Incredibles: Another superhero option is dressing up as The Incredibles family. This works particularly well for smaller groups, with each participant taking on a different member of the family, from Mr. Incredible to Jack-Jack.

Conclusion

The Otley Run is not just about the pubs—it’s about the fun and creativity that comes with dressing up in themed costumes. Whether you choose a classic fancy dress idea, a film and TV-inspired look, or a sports or decade-based theme, the key is to embrace the spirit of the event and have fun with your friends. Dressing up adds a playful element to the pub crawl, creating an unforgettable experience. So pick your theme, gather your costume, and get ready to enjoy one of Leeds’ most legendary nights out!