The famous 15-pub crawl through Headingley, Hyde Park and into the city centre has been a staple of student life in the city for many a year. It has become so well known that even non-students have begun arriving from across the country dressed as pirates, Vikings, golfers and cartoon characters to take on the boozy challenge.
The Otley Run has proved divisive for many though, with residents complaining about the drunken antics of those undertaking it. A public space protection order was extended in the summer by West Yorkshire Police to give them powers to issue fines for littering, public urination and harassment along the route.
The bar crawl will inevitably continue to attract punters though throughout the coming months. So with students about to return to the city, we’ve listed the 15 pubs and bars on the route according to the Otley Run’s official governing body:
The bar crawl will inevitably continue to attract punters though throughout the coming months. So with students about to return to the city, we’ve listed the 15 pubs and bars on the route according to the Otley Run’s official governing body:
. Manahatta
The fifth spot on the Otley Run - Manahatta bar in Headingley - sees a step away from the traditional pubs and bars into more swish and swanky surroundings. The curved bar has plenty of room for mingling and has a lively atmosphere. Address: 19 Ash Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3JJ Photo: Gary Longbottom
. The Library
Now entering double figures, The Library is the tenth stop on the run and often has live music or DJs to soundtrack your night as you enter the final strait. Address: 229 Woodhouse Ln., Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 3AP Photo: Google
. The Three Horsehoes
Next stop along the way is The Three Horseshoes. No booking is required; walk-ins are the way to get a table. So, make sure you check the weather and prepare for the rest of the run. Address: 98 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS16 5JG Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
. The New Inn
The New Inn is the third stop on the Otley Run and is an old traditional pub with bay windows looking out on the road and a low ceiling. With some good deals on shots, it's one that runners can often get away with just slipping in briefly to. Address: 68 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 4BA Photo: Google
. The Headingley Taps
As you’re getting closer to Woodhouse, it's time for a drink at the Headingley Taps. Located in the heart of Headingley, it becomes a fun and lively venue at night, while offering a quiet and cosy atmosphere in the afternoon. Address: Bennett Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3HG Photo: Google
. Box
The next stop is at The Box, which is a very popular venue with sports fans that becomes lively on game days. It’s also a boozer with a modern look and great outdoor seating area that is ideal for watching the other Otley Runners come and go. Address: 8 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 2AD Photo: Google
7. Handsome Brewhouse
The latest addition the Otley Run is Handsome Brewhouse, which sells their own beers brewed in the Lake District as well as a range of spirits, shots and guest beers. Address: 15 Eldon Terrace, Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 9AB Photo: Google
8. The Pack Horse
With its cosy feel, live music and wood-topped bars, The Pack Horse is one of the highlights of the Otley Run and is an ideal place to wind down as you brace yourself for the last few pubs. Address: 208 Woodhouse Ln., Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 9DX Photo: Mark Bickerdike
9. Woodies Craft Ale House
The first stop for those taking on the almighty challenge is Woodies Craft Ale House, which is open from noon until 11pm each day of the week. Keep an eye on their social media, as they update their availability, and take it easy, it’s only the first stop. Address: 104 Otley Rd, Headingley Leeds LS16 5JG Photo: Google
10. The Eldon
The 12th stop on the run is The Eldon, where you’ll be greeted by a lovely wooden floor, mahogany bar, and lively crowd of students and regulars. Address: 190 Woodhouse Ln., Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 9DX Photo: Bruce Rollinson
11. The Dry Dock
Fifteenth and finally is The Dry Dock, a moored up boat-turned-boozer that is just outside of the city centre where you can celebrate your lofty achievement or, if you've still got some left in the tank, decide on where to go next. Address: 161-165 Woodhouse Ln., Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 3ED Photo: National World
12. The Original Oak
Another traditional pub on the run, The Original Oak has space both inside and outside to accommodate the Otley Runners who may be starting to tire and the cricket fans and regular punters who may not know what they've walked into. Address: 2 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 2DG Photo: Google