The Otley Run

Pubs

Comprehensive List of Pubs on the Otley Run

The Otley Run is a legendary pub crawl that takes place in Leeds, beginning in the Headingley area and stretching towards the city centre. It features a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and quirky stops. Although the route can vary slightly depending on personal preferences, here’s a detailed list of the most popular pubs on the Otley Run:

1. Woodies Craft Ale House

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: A traditional starting point for the Otley Run, Woodies Craft Ale House is a spacious pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its wide selection of craft ales and ciders, it’s the perfect spot to begin your pub crawl journey.
  • Vibe: Relaxed and casual, often quieter compared to the later stops.
  • Signature Drink: Local ales and craft beers.

2. The Three Horseshoes

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: This historic pub has been part of the Otley Run for years and is a local favourite. With its traditional Yorkshire charm, The Three Horseshoes offers a cozy interior and a great selection of affordable drinks.
  • Vibe: Classic British pub feel, perfect for warming up early in the crawl.
  • Signature Drink: Tetley’s Bitter, a Yorkshire staple.

3. The New Inn

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: Just a short walk from The Three Horseshoes, The New Inn is a spacious pub with a large beer garden. It’s especially popular in the summer months when crawlers can enjoy their drinks outside.
  • Vibe: Sociable and spacious, ideal for large groups.
  • Signature Drink: John Smith’s or a refreshing lager.

4. The Original Oak

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: One of Headingley’s largest and most famous pubs, The Original Oak is a must-visit on the Otley Run. It boasts a massive beer garden and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the most popular stops on the crawl.
  • Vibe: Energetic and bustling, particularly on weekends and during student events.
  • Signature Drink: A pint of Carling or Foster’s.

5. Skyrack

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: Located right across the road from The Original Oak, Skyrack is another Leeds institution that has been a staple of the Otley Run for decades. This pub attracts a student-heavy crowd and offers reasonably priced drinks.
  • Vibe: Fun and friendly, with a lively student crowd.
  • Signature Drink: Lager or cider, especially during summer.

6. The Box

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: A sports bar with a modern twist, The Box is known for its extensive selection of cocktails and beers. It also has large TV screens showing live sports, making it a popular spot for sports fans along the route.
  • Vibe: Lively and upbeat, with a contemporary feel.
  • Signature Drink: Cocktails or a pint of Amstel.

7. Headingley Taps

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: Located in a grand old building that used to be the railway station, Headingley Taps is a spacious pub with a large outdoor area. It’s one of the busiest stops on the Otley Run, and you’ll often see large groups starting to pick up momentum here.
  • Vibe: Buzzing and vibrant, particularly in the evenings.
  • Signature Drink: A pint of Strongbow or a classic lager.

8. The Arc

  • Location: Headingley
  • Description: A modern, stylish bar with a large outdoor seating area, The Arc is one of the more trendy spots on the Otley Run. It’s a great place to stop for a cocktail or something a bit more upscale before the crawl gets into full swing.
  • Vibe: Trendy and social, with a mix of students and professionals.
  • Signature Drink: Cocktails, especially gin-based options.

9. The Hyde Park Pub

  • Location: Hyde Park
  • Description: As you leave Headingley and enter the Hyde Park area, The Hyde Park Pub marks the next iconic stop. Known for its student-heavy crowd, it’s a great place to catch up with other groups on the Otley Run.
  • Vibe: Loud and lively, particularly in the evenings.
  • Signature Drink: A pint of lager or cider, keeping it simple as the night progresses.

10. The Library

  • Location: Woodhouse
  • Description: Despite the name, The Library is not a place for quiet study. This large, bustling pub is situated close to the University of Leeds and attracts a vibrant student crowd. It’s often one of the busiest stops on the Otley Run.
  • Vibe: High-energy and packed with students.
  • Signature Drink: Lager or a well-priced pint of ale.

11. The Pack Horse

  • Location: Woodhouse
  • Description: The Pack Horse is a traditional British pub with a cosy atmosphere. It’s a bit quieter than some of the larger stops, offering a nice respite in the middle of the crawl. Known for its friendly staff and classic pub decor, it’s a hidden gem on the Otley Run.
  • Vibe: Cozy and laid-back, with a more relaxed crowd.
  • Signature Drink: Yorkshire ales or Guinness.

12. The Eldon

  • Location: Woodhouse
  • Description: Located near Leeds General Infirmary, The Eldon is a popular stop on the Otley Run. With its casual vibe and affordable drinks, it’s a great place to grab a pint before heading further into the city centre.
  • Vibe: Relaxed and unpretentious, often frequented by students and hospital staff.
  • Signature Drink: Lager or house spirits with mixers.

13. The Fenton

  • Location: Woodhouse
  • Description: A classic pub with a strong sense of character, The Fenton is known for its connection to Leeds’ alternative music scene. With its slightly grungy vibe and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone on the Otley Run looking for something a bit different.
  • Vibe: Alternative and laid-back, with a cool, artsy crowd.
  • Signature Drink: A pint of local ale or a classic beer.

14. The Wrens

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: As you enter the city centre, The Wrens is one of the first stops. This classic pub has a traditional, old-world feel and offers a calm before the storm as you get closer to the heart of Leeds.
  • Vibe: Traditional and cosy, with a more mature crowd.
  • Signature Drink: Real ale or a whisky.

15. The Dry Dock

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: One of the quirkiest stops on the Otley Run, The Dry Dock is a bar housed in a converted boat. Located just outside the University of Leeds campus, it’s a popular stop with students and offers a unique venue for mid-crawl refreshments.
  • Vibe: Quirky and fun, with a nautical theme.
  • Signature Drink: Cocktails or a pint of cider.

16. The Social

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: A lively, trendy bar with a strong focus on cocktails and craft beers, The Social is a modern spot perfect for those looking to mix up their drink options. With a great selection of drinks and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s a popular stop as the crawl moves into the city centre.
  • Vibe: Trendy and upbeat, with a younger crowd.
  • Signature Drink: Cocktails, particularly gin and tonic.

17. The Swan

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: This classic city centre pub offers a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it a great stop on the final stretch of the Otley Run. With its traditional decor and welcoming staff, The Swan is a solid choice for a late-stage pint.
  • Vibe: Laid-back and friendly, with a more mature crowd.
  • Signature Drink: Real ale or lager.

18. The Victoria Hotel

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: One of Leeds’ most historic pubs, The Victoria Hotel offers a glimpse into the city’s past. With its ornate interiors and vintage feel, it’s a step back in time and a refined stop on the Otley Run.
  • Vibe: Historic and charming, with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Signature Drink: Real ale or a glass of wine.

19. Nation of Shopkeepers

  • Location: Leeds City Centre
  • Description: Known for its creative decor and extensive beer selection,