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
13. Hyde Park
The short walks between previous pubs is done away with now, with the next trip being a walk or bus down Headingley Lane to The Hyde Park. It’s often a moment of truth for many on the run, with some taking the chance to slink off. Address: 2 Headingley Ln., Headingley, Leeds LS6 2AS Photo: Google
14. The Fenton
If you make it to The Fenton then you’re very much on the home stretch of the Otley Run. This favourite among students has a great wooden décor with plenty of well designed rooms. There's also a graffiti-covered beer garden outside to add a modern twist on this old haunt. Address: 161-165 Woodhouse Ln., Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 3ED Photo: Google
15. The Skyrack
The Skyrack is a local landmark and just a quick walk from The Box. The venue has plenty of room both inside and outside and is a great place to grab a fish finger sandwich or burger as you approach the half way point. Address: 2-4 St Michael's Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3AW Photo: Steve Riding
16. The Otley Run
The Otley Run has attracted groups of fancy dress-wearing friends for years. Photo: Google