Alternative Pub Crawls to the Otley Run in Leeds

The Otley Run is undoubtedly one of the most famous pub crawls in the UK, drawing students, tourists, and locals alike to its lively and diverse route. However, if you’re looking for alternatives to this well-trodden path, Leeds has plenty to offer when it comes to nightlife, drinking experiences, and unique ways to explore the city’s vibrant pub and bar scene. Whether you want something more low-key, are looking to discover hidden gems, or just fancy a change from the Otley Run, here are some excellent alternatives to consider.

1. Leeds Independent Bar Crawl

If you’re after something a little more sophisticated than the typical student pub crawl, why not focus on Leeds’ independent bars? The city centre is packed with stylish, quirky, and unique venues, many of which are owned by local entrepreneurs and offer craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and eclectic atmospheres. This type of bar crawl allows you to experience the local character of Leeds, away from the chain pubs and student hotspots.

Key stops: Start at The Reliance, a cosy bar known for its relaxed vibe, craft beers, and homemade charcuterie. Next, head to Whitelock’s Ale House, one of the oldest pubs in Leeds, for a historic touch with an impressive range of ales. Continue the crawl at The Tapped Leeds, a venue known for its massive selection of craft beers and pizzas, perfect for soaking up the drinks. Finish off your night at The Maven, a hidden gem specialising in speakeasy-style cocktails in a cool, prohibition-era setting.
Vibe: This alternative crawl is all about appreciating quality drinks, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere, and soaking up the charm of Leeds’ independent venues. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds and are more interested in having a relaxed, cultured night out.

2. The Call Lane Bar Crawl

Call Lane is one of Leeds’ most popular streets for nightlife, packed with trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s a fantastic alternative for those who want an energetic night out without committing to the full Otley Run. Call Lane offers a more compact experience, with plenty of drinking spots packed into a relatively short area.

Key stops: Start at Jake’s Bar, a cocktail haven with creative drinks and a fun, upbeat vibe. From there, make your way to Cuckoo, a quirky and colourful bar with great music and a vibrant atmosphere. The Backroom is another great stop for a stylish bar with live DJs and retro cocktails. For a laid-back, intimate venue, check out The Oporto, a bar with a strong focus on live music and a stellar drinks menu.
Vibe: Call Lane is ideal for those who want a fun night out with a mix of cocktails, live music, and vibrant crowds. The bars on this street are generally more upscale than the student pubs on the Otley Run, so it attracts a more diverse crowd of young professionals, locals, and visitors alike. The area is perfect for groups who love a bit of variety in their night out, from cocktails to indie music.

3. Craft Beer Trail

For those with a penchant for craft beer, Leeds boasts a growing number of bars and breweries specialising in small-batch, artisanal beers. A craft beer trail is a perfect way to discover some of the best brews the city has to offer, while also exploring different parts of Leeds beyond the Otley Run route.

Key stops: Start your craft beer adventure at North Brewing Co. Taproom, one of Leeds’ most respected breweries, with a taproom serving fresh, innovative beers. Next, visit The Brew Society, a cosy spot with a wide range of rotating craft beers and great food. Continue to Bundobust, a unique venue that combines craft beer with Indian street food. Finally, end your trail at Tapped Leeds, where you’ll find an incredible selection of both local and international craft beers.
Vibe: This alternative to the Otley Run is ideal for beer enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality, flavourful brews. You’ll find a more relaxed crowd here, often comprised of beer aficionados who enjoy discussing and discovering new types of ales, IPAs, and stouts. The craft beer scene in Leeds is rapidly growing, so this type of trail offers a more intimate and laid-back pub experience.

4. Leeds Brewery Tour

Another excellent alternative to the Otley Run is a brewery tour. Leeds is home to several fantastic breweries, many of which offer tours and tastings, providing a unique way to explore the city’s beer culture. It’s a great option for those who want to learn more about the brewing process, sample local brews, and enjoy a more guided and informative drinking experience.

Key breweries: One of the top choices for a brewery tour is Northern Monk, a brewery located in a former mill that has become famous for its creative and bold beers. Their tours include a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and, of course, plenty of tastings. Another popular option is Leeds Brewery, which offers tours of their brewery along with a chance to sample their beers in local pubs like The Midnight Bell and The White Swan.
Vibe: A brewery tour is perfect for groups who want a more structured and educational experience. It’s a fantastic way to combine the social element of a pub crawl with a deeper understanding of the brewing process and the history of beer in Leeds. Brewery tours often end with a session in the taproom, where you can enjoy exclusive, fresh-from-the-barrel brews that aren’t available anywhere else.

5. The Brudenell Social Club Experience

If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, The Brudenell Social Club offers a completely different kind of night out. Located in the Hyde Park area, this beloved venue combines live music, affordable drinks, and a laid-back, retro atmosphere. It’s a cultural hub in Leeds and a favourite among locals for its eclectic mix of events and friendly vibe.

What to expect: The Brudenell hosts everything from live indie bands and up-and-coming artists to themed quiz nights and gaming tournaments. The drinks are affordable, the crowd is welcoming, and the atmosphere is unbeatable if you’re looking for something outside the typical pub crawl experience. There’s also a large outdoor area perfect for warm summer nights.
Vibe: The Brudenell Social Club is great for those who love live music and want a more casual, alternative night out. It’s an iconic venue that reflects the creative, community-driven spirit of Leeds, making it a fantastic alternative to a traditional pub crawl. It’s less about hopping from bar to bar and more about settling in for a fun night of drinks and music in one of Leeds’ best-loved venues.

6. Watering Holes with a View: Rooftop Bars in Leeds

For a more scenic alternative to the Otley Run, consider exploring Leeds’ rooftop bars. These stylish venues offer stunning views of the city skyline alongside creative cocktails and a more refined atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want a more sophisticated night out, without the crowds or chaos of a pub crawl.

Key stops: Start your rooftop experience at Angelica, a chic bar located at the top of Trinity Leeds shopping centre, offering panoramic views and an extensive cocktail menu. Next, head to East 59th, a New York-inspired rooftop bar with a stylish setting and outdoor seating. Finally, finish your night at Sky Lounge, a luxurious rooftop venue in the DoubleTree Hilton hotel, known for its elegant atmosphere and spectacular views over Leeds.
Vibe: Rooftop bars are ideal for those looking for a more relaxed, upscale drinking experience. The views, the drinks, and the overall ambience make it a great alternative for groups who want to enjoy Leeds’ nightlife without the intensity of a traditional pub crawl.

7. Neighbourhood Pub Crawls: Horsforth or Chapel Allerton

If you want to avoid the busier, more central areas of Leeds, consider exploring one of its suburbs for a neighbourhood pub crawl. Horsforth and Chapel Allerton are both charming areas with excellent pubs, providing a more laid-back and local alternative to the Otley Run.

Horsforth: This suburb is known for its picturesque village atmosphere and has a variety of traditional pubs, such as The Old Ball and The Horsforth, which offer a more relaxed, cosy drinking experience. You’ll find great pub food, local ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
Chapel Allerton: Chapel Allerton is another fantastic option, with pubs like The Mustard Pot and The Pit offering a mix of stylish settings and friendly atmospheres. This area is slightly more upmarket, with gastro pubs and independent bars that provide an alternative to the more student-focused Otley Run.
Vibe: These neighbourhood pub crawls are perfect for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of central Leeds. They offer a slower-paced, more intimate experience, and are ideal for groups who want to socialise in a more relaxed setting.

Conclusion

While the Otley Run is a well-loved tradition in Leeds, there are plenty of alternative ways to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and drinking culture. Whether you’re into craft beer, rooftop cocktails, live music, or historic pubs, Leeds has something to suit every taste. By exploring these alternative pub crawls and nightlife options, you can discover new parts of the city, enjoy a variety of atmospheres, and tailor your night out to your personal preferences.