Otley in West Yorkshire is situated in the beautiful and undisturbed countryside of Lower Wharfedale yet is only ten miles from the dynamic city of Leeds. Steeped in history, Otley lies on the boundary between North and West Yorkshire and has much to interest the visitor.
The attractive mix of new and traditional businesses makes for a strong community spirit, good shopping and a thriving local economy with both industrial and agricultural strengths.
Otley has a well supported Chamber of Trade, a street market three times a week, a monthly Farmers’ Market, a wide range of specialist shops, award winning bakeries and butchers as well as high street chains, two supermarkets and a District Hospital. The high number of independently owned businesses pride themselves on their expertise, personal service and value for money.
The many traditional pubs and inns offer good food and a range of beers in attractive and welcoming premises. The television programmes of Emmerdale and Heartbeat have made Otley nationally known and Thomas Chippendale, the world famous furniture maker was born and learnt his craft here.
Local events are well supported and include Otley in Bloom, a Victorian Fayre in December, a weekend Folk Festival, Beer Festival, Otley Vintage Transport Extravaganza, Otley Carnival and Otley Show.
Along the River Wharfe, which runs through the heart of the town, is the attractive Riverside Park which offers beautiful walks, playgrounds and boating; whilst the wooded hillside, rocks and moorland of Chevin Forest Park are ideal for climbing, horse riding, mountain biking, running and orienteering and, of course, the River Wharfe and Knotfrd Nook are renowned for their fishing.
History highlights:
Otley dates from before Roman times, the first church being built there in the early 7th century. In the church there are the remains of two Early Anglo-Saxon crosses.
• Thomas Chippendale, the elder (June 5 1718 - November 1779) the famous furniture maker, was born in Otley, and his statue stands in the town, next to the old grammar school.
• J.M.W. Turner visited Otley in 1797, aged 22, when commissioned to paint watercolours of the area.
• The Wharfedale Printing Machine was developed in Otley by William Dawson and William Payne. An early example can be seen in Otley Museum.
• Famous Methodist preacher John Wesley visited regularly.