Leeds Otley Run
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The Otley Run is a rite of passage for most students studying in Leeds. A two-and-a-half-mile pub crawl starting at Woodies Ale House in Headingley and ending at The Dry Dock in the city centre (at which point the more seasoned go “out out”).
There have been a number of alterations and changes to the Otley run. This rundown includes the latest and greatest changes – to make sure you get the best from your Otley Run!
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Quick Links
- Essential Otley Run Info
- How to Get To The Start of the Otley Run
- Map of the Otley Run
- The Pubs and Bars along the Otley Run
- 1. Woodies
- 2. The Three Horseshoes
- 3. The New Inn
- 4. Taylor’s Sports Bar & Grill
- 5. Arcadia
- 6. Sixes Social Cricket
- 7. The Headingley Taps
- 8. The Box
- 9. The Skyrack
- 10. The Original Oak
- 11. The Hyde Park Pub
- 12. The Library Pub
- 13. The Pack Horse
- 14. The Eldon Pub
- 15. Leeds University Union
- 16. Handsome Brewhouse
- 17. The Fenton
- 18. The Dry Dock
- 19. Out Out!
- Costumes and Picking a Theme
- Traditional Otley Run Rules
- Where to Get Food Along the Otley Run
- Where Not To Go on the Otley Run
- Hints and Tips
- Otley Run History
- Have a question? Want something adding?
Essential Otley Run Info
What Days to run the Otley Run?
Honestly, any day is a good day for the Otley Run. But it is worth considering when venues are all going to be open, when everyone is available, and when you will have the most fun. For these reasons the Otley Run tends to be busier on sunny Saturdays. However don’t let that hold you back. If you have found a good day to run, lets go!
What Time to Start the Otley Run?
We would always recommend starting the Otley Run early on before midday. An unofficial cut-off time to get going is by 3pm in the afternoon. As you hit mid-afternoon (between 3-5pm) the route begins to get busy and so does access to all the pubs.
How Long Does The Otley Run Take?
As a general rule it can take all day. If you set off around 1-2pm, you are likely to make it to the Dry Dock around 11pm.
However it can depend on a number of things – How big your group is?; how busy the pubs are?; are you strictly following the rules or flexing it with a few drinks off the cards?
A must is to make sure your group has a designated leader, one that ensures the drinks are getting finished and the group moving forwards. Otherwise you could get stuck in the sun at the Original Oak!
How Many Pints on the Otley Run?
If you are following the traditional Otley Run rules and finish the whole route, you will be drinking up to 17-pints… Some people like to switch this up and start introducing spirits and mixers into the equation.
We recommend that you know your limits.
Do I Have to Dress Up For the Otley Run?
You don’t have to dress up for the Otley Run. But if you are going to do it, you may as well do it properly!
It’s a opportunity to get coordinated with your mates and dress up around a theme, take superheroes, film and TV, pop culture by the decades or sports and job outfits as some ideas!
How Much Does the Otley Run Cost?
The price can vary as it depends on your choice of drink. However if you are drinking up to 17-pints and you grab a box of chips along the way (you know you will) then the cost could tally up to anything between £65 – £90.
How to Get To The Start of the Otley Run
The start of the Otley Run is at Woodies(Google Map location).
By Bus
- Cookridge – Garforth. The 19 or 19A First Bus passes through Headingley. We recommend getting off anywhere near Headingly Highstreet and walking to Woodies from there.
- Guiseley – Leeds City Centre. The 27 First Bus passes through Headingley. It has a stop right outside Woodies. Perfect!
- Holt Park – Leeds City Center. The 6 First Bus passes through Headingley. It also has a stop right outside Woodies.
- Pudsey – Halton Moor. The 91 First Bus briefly passes through Headingley. We recommend getting off anywhere near Headingly Highstreet and walking to Woodies from there.
Check your journey on the First Bus journey planner.
By Train
Although there is a bit of a walk. You could get the train to Headingley Station. Then follow this route to get to Woodies – Walking route from Headingley train station to Woodies.
Map of the Otley Run
The below map shows each stopping point as a red marker. Press the GPS icon to track your progress.
The Pubs and Bars along the Otley Run
There has been some debate on which bars and pubs actually are on the Otley Run. But we know what’s what. The 18-pubs listed below are our official Otley Run pub crawl.
1. Woodies
The Otley Run begins at Woodies in far Headingley. It comes with a decent sized beer garden that’s well kitted out, benches at the front and a big old space inside.
Woodies has a great atmosphere that is warm and welcoming with a lively undertone – it is the first stop on the Otley run after all! You can expect a top level of service from the bar staff here too.
As it’s a Greene King pub, there is a range of their brews on tap, including their Progress Pale – 20p from every pint sold goes to an LGBQT+ charity.
It may be lunch time when you get here. Not a bad place to get some grub in early!
2. The Three Horseshoes
The Three Horseshoes – second on the run – is one of the oldest pubs in Headingley; and practically next door to Woodies.
Three Horseshoes comes with 3 quality things – a lovely landlord, friendly staff and good pub games.
It has outdoor seating, a number of tables inside, and HD TVs for the sports (not that you will be watching!). Or a quick game of pool or darts in-between the Otley mayhem.
The Three Horseshoes also has a pretty decent selection of food. Not a bad spot for some food to line the stomach before really getting into the Otley Run.
3. The New Inn
The first three pubs along the route are nice and close together. The New Inn being the last of the three. Also a Greene King pub, so you know what to expect food and drink wise.
This pub is a little smaller than the first two – and tends to have security on the door to handle the flow of traffic; particularly on a Saturday when it’s peak Otley Run time.
Unless you have started early this pub might be a skippable option due to the long cues, but that’s only if you’re bending the Otley Run etiquette.
There is a pool table, and a big screen usually showing the sport – if you need to pause for a moment and collect yourself…
4. Taylor’s Sports Bar & Grill
Taylors is a recent addition to the Otley Run and number 4 stop-off. It offers a straightforward experience with its open-plan layout and ample seating, both indoors and outdoors.
This one presents itself as a quaint and chilled atmosphere – not you’re typical sports bar boozer. And the locals here are regularly cracking a joke with the Otley Runners.
If you are wanting to catch a match mid run, the bar has screens showcasing various games including Leeds United and Rhinos matches.
Taylor’s caters to various tastes with a selection of drinks including lagers like Coors, Cobra, and Madri, as well as Guinness and John Smith’s for those who prefer less of the bubbles.
5. Arcadia
A new addition to the Otley run. Arcadia is positioned at the top of Headingley high street, and on warm days has upstairs seating that turns into a terrace of sorts, as well as seating out the front of the bar.
The stuffy class vibes are long gone from Arcadia with a nod to a more open and inclusive approach to having a drink, and that includes you Otley Runners.
They aren’t just about beer here, with a pretty substantial selection of gins, wines and fizz behind the bar.
6. Sixes Social Cricket
A new addition to the Otley run, taking over the old Manahatta location, welcome Sixes Headingley.
It adds a fresh twist to the traditional pub crawl, with a buzzing bar, great food, and a welcoming vibe. Whether you’re grabbing a quick £5 pizza slice, enjoying a cold beer with friends, or catching live sport on the big screens, Sixes offers a fantastic space to keep the fun going. It’s the perfect spot to mix things up and enjoy the night along the legendary route!
7. The Headingley Taps
A bit further down the road (half-a-mile) and past Burger King and Greggs (quick bite to eat?) is Headingley Taps. It’s not the easiest to find while intoxicated as it’s off the main Otley Road, meaning you could end up at the Box and skip this Otley pit-stop.
This pub is a home away from home. It’s got funny bar staff; the music is banging and the security are up for a laugh while also making people feel safe. An all-round nice environment.
In 2022 they gave the beer garden a facelift and added a number of benches. Making it a great place to grab a pint in the sun!
Bit of history: the name ‘The Headingley Taps’ comes from the pubs previous place as a local water pumping station for the area.
8. The Box
A student and sports bar in the centre of Headingley; that comes with a a fun competitive environment because of the decent range of bar games, including electric darts and shuffleboard, that can only make your Otley Run even better. Be warned that the volume gets cranked during karaoke.
They serve a decent number of beers, ciders and spirits at a good measure for the price. And they do a good selection of pub grub too!
Out the front is a small beer garden with benches, a good spot if it’s a sunny day!
9. The Skyrack
At this point the Otley run tends to slow down a bit. The place is huge with lots of space and screens to watch live sport, yet the queues can back up here as we’re starting to peak at the half-way point of the run.
If you’re after a real bit of Yorkshire – aside from the welcoming warm hospitality – this is one of the few remaining pubs to sell John Smiths (have it!) bitter. Get that distinct smooth and creamy texture down for number 9 – just 9 more to go!
There is a small bar garden to the side of The Skyrack. A nice place to pause!
10. The Original Oak
At this point you are over half-way through the run. You can expect fast service and fair prices. Which is what you need as you hit double digits on the run.
Known as having one of the best beer gardens in Leeds with one of the biggest outdoor screens showing live sport. And a small upstairs bar that makes for a good alternative when the queues begin to build up.
You’re probably after something that will go down easy by this point. The Oak do a cracking pint of Guinness and a decent food selection. If you’re getting the drink induced munchies then stock up here on some scran.
And onto the next one… which is a bit of a walk from here to the Hyde Park Pub.
11. The Hyde Park Pub
After trekking the longest stretch on the run, you will likely lose a number of your group before making it here! Otley road is longer than it looks on a map, and you’re probably too far gone to use a bus.
However, it’s not worth getting a taxi from The Original Oak. The wait will be ages and the fresh air will probably do you some good – so lace those army boots up and get moving!
This pub is a favourite of local students, its location puts it right at the heart of student town in Hyde Park (Woodhouse Moor). As the day goes on the atmosphere climbs with weekend DJs finishing with a bang!
12. The Library Pub
Not a book in sight here but it used to be a proper library! Situated on the edge of Hyde Park, next to the main Leeds Uni Campus. This is a favourite destination for students and like minded people.
The Otley Run fun just adds to the atmosphere. And as it’s a big old place which means that on weekday nights it can get more like a party in a library.
There’s loads of room indoor and out, including a function room that hosts live music and parties.
13. The Pack Horse
Just across the road and a little bit along from the Library Pub sits the Pack Horse.
Its a bit of a squeeze in this quaint little pub which means if you’re a big group, you might want to make this one a quick in and out pint with a pack of scampi fries if you’re peckish. The prices are pretty decent this close to the city centre. Not bad now you’re starting to feel it in the pocket.
There is a small beer garden, but it makes sense to move on sharpish to the next stop on the run – the Eldon.
14. The Eldon Pub
Larger than the Packhorse, this is an unpretentious friendly pub on the corner of St Marks Street.
The Eldon offers a great selection of beers and some fantastic bar snacks to help keep you going through the last few pubs too.
Great atmosphere, brilliant friendly staff and the prices are really good! Expect dancing, singing, and someone stupidly suggesting shots…
15. Leeds University Union
The Leeds University Union stop introduces a decision. Something that at this point in the run is likely to split the group depending on the type of people you are with. This is because the union contains two bars. And you can only visit one!
The first is Old Bar. It has been there since 1939 and is very much a “proper” pub. Wooden stools, pub quizzed and guest beers. It’s a cosy stop off, and some may call it a day at this point!
The second is The Terrace. Known for its events, and on a sunny day its large outside area. This is more of a modern vibe with cocktails and a more minimum décor. If you are heading out to the clubs after then this may be more your scene!
16. Handsome Brewhouse
Handsome Brewhouse adds a unique touch to the Otley Run with its selection of craft beers in a cool, slightly rugged setting opposite the Parkinson Building.
Housed in an old Victorian house with various rooms across two floors. This new addition to the Otley Run adds an element of lively new bar atmosphere.
As it’s the 16th stop on your journey, it’s wise to opt for brews below 5% alcohol. And it may be worth grabbing a bite to eat from here which is usually provided by rotating guest street food vendors.
17. The Fenton
One of the most friendly independent venues along the Otley Run. This traditional boozer – check the décor! – is great for real cider and cask ales. It might be time for a sugary cider pick-up.
They have DJ events on every Saturday in the beer garden plus a BBQ, so there’s food options available for the runners! And if you stumble at one of the last hurdles you could stay for the live music and open mic.
They also have a tiki bar open outside for extra service!
18. The Dry Dock
You’ve made it to the end! You’re a hero. And what a place to finish this emotional journey – a barge in the middle of the city.
Before its conception as a pub, The Dry Dock was a gravel barge called “Lambda” which was moved to its current spot opposite Leeds Metropolitan University in December 1993.
The do a pretty good selection of food, but it is unlikely you will get here before the kitchen closes. And at this point in the evening it also isn’t worth mentioning the rum and cocktails they do. Bask in the winners triumph – not everyone makes it this far!
19. Out Out!
If you and a few of your group have made it this far, good job! You have got yourself (somehow!?) into Leeds city centre. The world is yours. Maybe head around to the Uni Union if there is an event on. If the line at Pryzm isn’t too long it might be worth checking that out – cheap drinks and a good dance!
Costumes and Picking a Theme
The Otley Run is known for its costume diversity. You don’t have to wear a costume, but if your are going to do the Otley Run… You may as well…
Generally each group decide on a theme. Some popular ones are ghostbusters, pirates, or golfers.
Traditional Otley Run Rules
At the end of the day, this is a good old fashioned bar crawl. However there are several rules that groups like to throw in to spice things up and keep things moving.
Gentleman’s Rules
An old classic. Gentleman’s rules does what it says on the tin. No pointing, no swearing, only left hand drinking. If one of the group catches you breaking one of these rules – there is a forfeit!
Time Keeper
All good plans need structure. When organising an Otley Run someone should be assigned the ‘time keeper’. They make sure everyone moves on when time is up. This makes sure a reasonable pace is kept and there are no stragglers.
Grenade
The bigger the group, the more havoc this will cause. When someone shouts grenade the whole group must lay down on the floor. The last person standing has to do a forfeit.
Where to Get Food Along the Otley Run
Some people say “eating is cheating”. And then they get a few pints in them and want a box of cheesy chips.
Many of the pubs along the route do food. Ranging from bar snacks to burgers. However, sometimes you want something for the road.
At the Start
Between The New Inn and Headingley Taps:
- LOAF: if you’re starting early doors before midday then you could get yourself to LOAF for a pre-Otley-Run breakfast bap. This family run café are class at serving up a range of brunch buns for both the meaty and veggie disposition. Think patties, hash brown, eggs all doused in a gorgeous sauce. Check out LOAF.
- Bukhara: at the start of the run near Woodies you can get a takeaway gourmet burger, with a mix of beef, chicken, fish to pick from. This is a big fill for the road and should see you through to the end. Visit Bukhara.
- Zaap Thai: just before Taylor’s Sports Bar is the popular Thai takeaway chain. Who wants a stale crusty baguette from Subway when you can have a couple of Bao Buns made fresh? Tip – call ahead or order on the app to time you picking up before your next Otley Run stop.
- Ecco Pizzeria: nearing the halfway stretch is one of the best pizza restaurants in Leeds. A Neapolitan pizzeria that combines quantity with quality. This is seriously good pizza comes by the yard in range of mouth-watering topping combos. Ideal if you and your mates are all annoyingly different and want to scran your own slice. More Ecco Pizzeria.
- Poco Sicilian Street Food: you’re about to take the right turn off Otley Road and reach the Taps at the half-way point. Around here you’ve got a few takeaways that might peak your interest for a half-time snack. As you’ve already past some banging pizza shops, you might want to go in a little further with some Sicilian inspired street food. At Poco you can fill up on one of the tasty Arancini risotto balls. Like flapjack for a marathon runner, these things of beauty are the fuel for Otley Runners! Refuel at Poco Headingley.
Half-Way
Around the Hyde Park (Hotel) Pub:
- St Michaels Fisheries: a fish and chip supper on a session isn’t a bad idea. And not far from the busy Hyde Park Corner is St Michaels Fisheries. They’ve been frying for over 100-years so they know what their doing; whether it’s a bit of haddock or a saveloy that’s going to rescue you, this chippy is a good place to pull in to get that battered goodness. Get a chippy at St Michaels Fisheries.
Towards the End
By The Pack Horse and Eldon:
- Flames: towards the end of the run you can go grab a burger, wrap, kebab, or sub with some loaded chips. At this point your body’s crying out for something to soak up all that booze! Flames will do the job. Finish with some Flames.
Where Not To Go on the Otley Run
There are a few locations along the route that don’t take too fondly to Otley Runners. The main one is The Golden Beam (Wetherspoons).
Hints and Tips
If this is the first Otley run you’re doing, here’s a few nuggets of advice we recommend you take…
Pace Yourself
There are 18-venues that you are aiming to visit along the course of the Otley Run. That is a substantial amount of Vodka Redbulls.
We recommend starting off with halves or low percentage beers and ramping up later. The original Otley Run was far smaller than the current route, so shots would have been achievable. Now not so much…
Line That Stomach
If you are aiming to start the Otley run at a reasonable time so you can finish it, you are likely to be at Woodies around lunch time. Get some food in you.
They do some pretty decent pub grub, and it will set you up for a day of drinking.
Take a look at our food and drink section for other places to get food along the Otley Run.
Otherwise it might be an early home time for you…
Plan Ahead for the Weather
This is Leeds! It rains more than half the year.
Maybe the costumes you have picked feature a large anorak and wellies. But on the off-chance that you are wearing something less suited for the regular downpours, bring a jacket!
Footwear
Its a long old trek from Woodies to The Dry Dock. And that’s not including all the dancing, running, and trips to the toilet.
Blisters at the half-way point are not the one.
Pick the correct shoes for this hike, and you’ll be set. Because 100% you will lose at least one flip flop by the 4th pub.
Otley Run History
The Otley Run first began in 1964, when the Licensing Act gave Otley pubs favourable hours on market days. Known as the “Headingley Mile”, it was originally crawled by farmers who went between each pub by tractor.
In its first version, the Otley run contained pubs from further afield. Over time time the route began to change, adding more venues closer to the city. Tetley was a popular brewery in Yorkshire and because of their high number of pubs, venues such as The Oak Inn – now known as The Original Oak and The Woodman (Woodies) became a part of the crawl.
The trail used to end at a pub called The Pig and Whistle in the Merrion Centre. This pub no longer exists.
As more pubs were added the route changed from being a short crawl to an all day event.
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