Ultimate Guide to the Leeds Otley Run (2026): 17 Pro Tips + Hidden Bonus Stop You Can’t Miss!

The Otley Run is Leeds’ most legendary bar crawl. Discover everything you need to know. From the list of pubs to bonus stops like The Leeds Rifleman, and where to stay after the crawl.

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Introduction to the Otley Run

Welcome to the wildest, most iconic rite of passage in Leeds: The Otley Run. Whether you’re a uni student, a tourist, or just someone up for a good time, this epic bar crawl is your gateway to an unforgettable day. Starting in Headingly and winding its way into the heart of Leeds city centre, the Otley Run is an unforgettable full-on costumed adventure, social spectacle, and pub-pilgrimage rolled into one.

It’s popular with students from University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett, stag and hen dos, and anyone who loves a good challenge: 15+ pubs, one day, endless laughs. After that, it’s time to tackle the nightclubs in the city centre. Think you’ve got what it takes?

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History and Cultural Importance

The Otley Run dates back to the mid-20th century when students would slowly meander from Otley into Leeds. Over time, the crawl transformed into what we know today – an organised chaos of themed outfits, group chants, and an epic pub trail.

Today, it’s a cherished Leeds tradition, attracting thrill-seekers from across the UK and has become a right of passage for students in Leeds

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Planning Your Otley Run

Here’s how to prep like a pro:

• Pick the Right Day: Saturdays are busiest, but mid-week can offer a more chill vibe.
• Start Early: The Otley run is definitely a day drinking activity. Begin around 1 PM to ensure you have time to hit all stops.
• One drink per bar – go easy on the doubles!

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How Much Does The Otley Run Cost?

Some bars are more expensive than others, (obviously) but the ones in Headingley will be the most expensive – anticipate around £5 a pint on average depending on what you drink – across 15 bars thats £75 – assuming you’re not eating or anything along the way. Spirits will obviously be more.

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Essential Rules

Keep the good vibes flowing with these do’s and don’ts:

• Eatin’s Cheatin’ (apparently, you do you)
• Fancy dress is a must – crazier the better
• Be friendly to the locals, they’re no strangers to the run and they’ll look after you as long as you and your crew are pleasant.

The goal is fun – not getting kicked out before you reach city centre.

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Dress Code and Theme Ideas

If you’re not in costume, are you even doing the Otley Run?

Here are crowd-favourite themes:

• TV & Film (Toy Story, Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders)
• Occupations (Doctors, Builders, Lifeguards)
• Throwbacks (80s/90s fashion, School uniforms)
• Famous Duos or Groups (Mario & Luigi, Scooby Doo Gang)
• Rubix Cube (start with a mix of coloured clothing, swap clothing with friends or even strangers, to reach matching colours by the end of the run – This ones super fun!)

Tip: Comfortable shoes are your best friend. Nobodies dressing to impress here.

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Otley Run Pub List

Stop #	Pub Name	Area
1	Woodies	Headingley
2	The Three Horseshoes	Headingley
3	The New Inn	Headingley
4	Taylor’s Sports Bar & Grill	Headingley
5	Arcadia	Headingley
6	Sixes Social Cricket	Headingley
7	The Headingley Taps	Headingley
8	The Box	Headingley
9	The Skyrack	Headingley
10	The Original Oak	Headingley
11	The Hyde Park Pub	Hyde Park
12	The Library Pub	Hyde Park
13	The Pack Horse	Hyde Park
14	The Eldon Pub	Woodhouse
15	The Fenton	Woodhouse
15.5	The Leeds Rifleman (Bonus)	Woodhouse
16	The Dry Dock	City Centre

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Hidden Gems Along the Way

Between The Fenton and The Dry Dock, you’ll find a legendary pitstop: The Leeds Rifleman.

• The Leeds Rifleman

Located a short detour between the Fenton & The Dry Dock, The Leeds Rifleman is a pub where unofficially on the Otley run list, is frequently visited by those on the Otley Run. Mark it on your route and thank us later.

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Where to End the Run: Leeds City Centre Pubs

Wrap things up at these lively hotspots:

• The Dry Dock – Iconic boat pub, always buzzing
• Revolution – High-energy, perfect for dancing
• Call Lane – Bars, clubs, and late-night eats galore

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Group Size, Booking, and Logistics

• Groups of 3–10 are ideal
• Consider a group chat for updates and locations

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Where to Crash: Short-Stay Accommodation

You’ll need a comfy place to recover, right?

Luckily, we offer short-stay accommodation just a 5 minute walk from The Dry Dock, the last pub on the crawl; perfect for rolling into bed post-run. Whether you’re with mates or a partner, we’ve got space for you to recharge, recap the night, and scroll through all those hilarious snaps. Up to 6 guests can stay comfortably here.

Check availability before your crawl – you won’t want to deal with it at 1AM! (and neither will we)

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Final Thoughts and Pro Tips

The Otley Run is a Leeds treasure – wild, wacky, and 100% worth doing. With good prep, costumes, and some common sense, you’re guaranteed one for the memory books.

Pro Tips Recap:

• Start early, pace yourself
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
• Don’t skip The Leeds Rifleman 😉
• Book your post-crawl bed in advance
• Most pubs are pretty close together but it’s a decent walk after the Original Oak to the Hyde Park Pub – maybe 15 minutes or so, but only 90 seconds in a taxi.

Now get your crew, pick a theme, and conquer the Otley Run like a legend. 🍻