Accomodation

Where to Stay When Visiting Leeds for the Otley Run Pub Crawl

If you’re planning to tackle the legendary Otley Run pub crawl, you’ll want to make sure your accommodation is convenient, comfortable, and suited to your needs. Leeds offers a wide variety of places to stay, from budget-friendly hostels to stylish hotels, making it easy to find something that fits your preferences and budget.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best areas and types of accommodation to consider when visiting Leeds for the Otley Run.

1. Headingley: Start of the Otley Run

Best for: Proximity to the starting point and student vibes.

If you want to be as close as possible to the start of the Otley Run, Headingley is your ideal location. This bustling suburb is home to the first few pubs of the crawl and is popular with students and young professionals. Staying in Headingley means you’ll be just a short walk from pubs like Woodies and The Three Horseshoes, which are among the first stops on the route.

• Accommodation Options: In Headingley, you’ll find several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses that cater to students and young travellers. For example, The Headingley Lodge is a popular option located inside Headingley Stadium, offering affordable rooms with great views over the cricket ground.
• Vibe: Headingley has a youthful, energetic atmosphere, and the area is packed with bars, restaurants, and cafes. If you want to immerse yourself in the Otley Run culture and experience Leeds’ vibrant student scene, this is the place to stay.
• Transport: Headingley is well-connected to Leeds city centre via bus and train. The number 1 and 6 buses are frequent and can get you into the city quickly if you want to explore beyond the Otley Run. Taxis and rideshare options like Uber are also easily available.

2. Hyde Park: Halfway through the Crawl

Best for: Budget-friendly options and lively atmosphere.

Hyde Park is located along the middle section of the Otley Run and offers plenty of affordable accommodation options. Like Headingley, it has a strong student presence, which means you’ll find budget-friendly eateries and pubs all around. Staying here puts you in a prime position to easily access both the start of the Otley Run in Headingley and the final stops in Leeds city centre.

• Accommodation Options: Guesthouses and independent hostels are common in this area. For example, Hyde Park Hotel is a small, affordable option for those who want to stay close to the action without spending too much. It’s also close to pubs like The Hyde Park Pub, which is a key stop on the Otley Run.
• Vibe: Hyde Park is a laid-back, eclectic neighbourhood with a strong student and artistic community. It’s a great place to experience Leeds’ alternative scene, with vintage shops, indie cafes, and live music venues dotted throughout the area.
• Transport: Hyde Park is within walking distance of both Headingley and the city centre. If you prefer not to walk, buses are readily available, and taxis are easy to find.

3. Leeds City Centre: End of the Otley Run

Best for: Convenience, variety of accommodation, and nightlife.

Leeds city centre is a fantastic place to stay if you want to be close to the final pubs of the Otley Run, as well as the city’s best restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. The city centre has accommodation options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to affordable chain options and quirky boutique stays.

• Accommodation Options: Leeds city centre offers a wide range of choices. For those seeking comfort and style, The Queens Hotel is a well-known landmark offering classic, elegant rooms right in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, easyHotel Leeds provides simple, modern rooms at an affordable rate. Another option is Roomzzz Aparthotel, which offers self-catering apartments perfect for groups.
• Vibe: The city centre is lively, especially on weekends, and offers a mix of traditional pubs, trendy bars, and nightclubs. It’s ideal for groups looking to continue their night out after the Otley Run ends. You’ll also be close to major shopping areas like Trinity Leeds, as well as cultural hotspots like Leeds Art Gallery and the Grand Theatre.
• Transport: Staying in the city centre means everything is within easy walking distance, from pubs to restaurants to attractions. Leeds railway station is centrally located, offering quick connections to other cities, and buses and taxis are readily available.

4. Arena Quarter: For Nightlife Enthusiasts

Best for: Proximity to Leeds’ nightlife and event venues.

The Arena Quarter is just north of Leeds city centre and is home to the First Direct Arena, a popular venue for concerts and events. This area is perfect for those who want to experience the best of Leeds’ nightlife, as it’s close to some of the city’s most vibrant clubs, bars, and late-night spots.

• Accommodation Options: For a modern, stylish stay, consider The Clayton Hotel, which offers sleek rooms and great views of the city. Another option is The Ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena, which is budget-friendly yet trendy, and just steps away from the city’s top entertainment venues.
• Vibe: The Arena Quarter is known for its buzzing nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. It’s a popular area for groups of friends or those attending a gig or event.
• Transport: The Arena Quarter is well-connected to the rest of the city via bus and taxi. Leeds city centre is just a short walk away, making it easy to continue your night out after finishing the Otley Run.

5. Chapel Allerton: For a More Relaxed Stay

Best for: A quieter, more residential vibe with great local pubs.

If you’d prefer to stay outside the hustle and bustle of the city, Chapel Allerton is a fantastic option. Located just a short drive north of the city centre, this leafy suburb offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while still being close enough to access the Otley Run route.

• Accommodation Options: Chapel Allerton has a selection of boutique guesthouses and independent hotels. The Beechwood Bed & Breakfast is a charming, family-run option that provides a more homely stay with a friendly atmosphere. Alternatively, you could look for Airbnb properties in this area, offering a variety of stylish and comfortable options for groups.
• Vibe: Chapel Allerton is known for its village-like charm and community feel. The area is packed with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as some excellent local pubs like The Mustard Pot and The Angel Inn. It’s a great place to unwind after a night out on the Otley Run.
• Transport: Chapel Allerton is well-served by buses, making it easy to get into the city or to Headingley. If you prefer a more laid-back, suburban stay, this is an ideal option without being too far from the Otley Run action.

6. Burley: A Budget-Friendly Option

Best for: Those looking for affordable accommodation close to the Otley Run.

Burley is a neighbourhood located between Headingley and Leeds city centre, making it an ideal location for Otley Run participants who want to stay near the route without paying city centre prices. Burley is popular with students and young professionals, which means it has plenty of affordable options.

• Accommodation Options: The Boundary Hotel is a good budget-friendly choice located near the Headingley Cricket Ground. It offers basic but comfortable rooms at an affordable price, perfect for those who just need a place to crash after the pub crawl.
• Vibe: Burley has a more residential feel compared to Headingley or the city centre, but it still has a good selection of pubs, cafes, and shops. The area is laid-back and quiet, making it a great option for those looking to save money while staying close to the action.
• Transport: Burley is well-connected by bus, and you can easily walk to either Headingley or Leeds city centre from here. It’s a convenient, budget-friendly option for those looking to be close to the Otley Run route.

Conclusion

When visiting Leeds for the Otley Run, you have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of the city centre, close to the starting point in Headingley, or in a quieter, residential area like Chapel Allerton, there’s something to suit every budget and style. Consider what kind of experience you want to have—whether it’s immersing yourself in the student vibe, enjoying the nightlife, or relaxing in a peaceful neighbourhood— and pick your accommodation accordingly for an unforgettable Otley Run experience.