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Otley Ale Trail: Historic Pubs, Hidden Gems & Brilliant Beer
I had a brilliant day exploring the pubs and bars of Otley, starting at Curious Hop Bière Café before meeting up with Gareth from Roaming the Ridings. From cosy old pubs like the Junction Inn, Cross Pipes and Black Horse to newer places such as North Bar Social and The Rookery, there was loads of variety along the way. We were joined by a few familiar faces during the day, which made it even more enjoyable. There was plenty of good cask and craft beer to try, with some lovely historic buildings too. I finished the day at Shadow Brewing, rounding off a fantastic wander around Otley.
Otley has a long and colourful history, growing beside the River Wharfe beneath Otley Chevin. Its importance really developed in the Middle Ages, and in 1227 King Henry III granted the town the right to hold a market, helping Otley become an important local trading centre. The town is also famous as the birthplace of furniture maker Thomas Chippendale, born here in 1718. During the 19th century, Otley became an important centre for engineering and printing machinery, with presses made in the town exported around the world. Today, its old streets, market place and historic buildings still give Otley plenty of character.
Curious Hop Biere Cafe
Saturday saw me head over to Otley to meet up with Gareth from Roaming the Ridings – A Yorkshire Pub Guide. My first stop of the day was to Curious Hop Biere Cafe. The Curious Hop Bière Café opened at 9 Orchard Gate on 3 November 2022, following a refurbishment of premises previously occupied by Groove Pad & Vinyl. It was created as a joint venture between Otley’s Curious Hop bottle shop and Major Tom’s Social in Harrogate. The Curious Hop itself had been part of Otley’s beer scene since the end of 2013, originally trading as a specialist beer shop on New Market. The café gave the name a new home and a place for people to sit in rather than simply shop. It remains an independent little bar tucked into Orchard Gate.
Inside, the Curious Hop Bière Café feels cosy, relaxed and packed with character. Downstairs, dark grey walls and white brickwork are covered with colourful beer signs, while dried hops hang from the ceiling beneath glowing round lights. Wooden tables, black metal chairs and a long green bench fill the room, with a large front window bringing in plenty of light. Upstairs feels a little brighter and quieter, with grey walls, pale wooden flooring, plants, bottle displays and a mix of small tables and a large round one. There are also a few bright yellow tables and chairs outside, making it a welcoming little spot.
There were 3 cask ales alongside 10 keg lines, with plenty of choice across the bar. I went for Tent by Zapato, a hazy pale ale with juicy citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a soft, refreshing finish.
The Old Cock
A short walk round the corner brought me to The Old Cock. The Old Cock may feel like one of Otley’s old pubs, but it only opened as a pub in September 2010. The Grade II listed building itself is much older, dating from 1755 and originally built as two stone cottages. Over the years it moved into commercial use, serving as an antiques shop, pottery, Curlew Café and later the Sugar Street Bistro. After standing empty for more than three years, the building was carefully restored and turned into the Old Cock. Today, its old stone walls and cosy layout make its relatively short life as a pub feel much longer.
Inside, the Old Cock feels cosy, warm and full of character. Downstairs, exposed stone walls, heavy wooden beams and stone-flagged floors give the rooms an old-fashioned feel. Deep red walls, soft lighting and a black stove make the small seating corners especially snug, with cushioned benches, wooden tables and stools set around the windows. Upstairs, one larger room provides more seating, with wooden floors, exposed brickwork, colourful bench seats and old brewery mirrors and pictures decorating the walls. A few wooden benches outside provide a quiet spot to sit beside the stone building.
There was a strong choice of 9 cask ales, 2 still ciders and several keg options. I went for Golden Goose by Goose Eye Brewery, an English pale ale with light citrus flavours and a smooth, hoppy finish.
Treehouse Bar & Kitchen
My next call was to Treehouse Bar & Kitchen. Treehouse Bar & Kitchen sits in one of Bondgate’s historic buildings. Number 40 dates from the early 19th century and is Grade II listed. In the 1850s it became the home and surgery of doctor William Duckworth, and it was being used again as a doctor’s surgery by 1901. There were even plans to turn the site into an Otley Picture House in 1914, although the cinema was never built. Much later, the building became Korks Wine Bar and Brasserie, a well-known local venue. Treehouse took over the premises and reopened it under its current name in June 2024.
Inside, Treehouse Bar & Kitchen feels warm, colourful and full of character. The main space sits beneath a huge glass roof, with exposed stone walls, hanging greenery, wicker lights and sparkling mirror balls overhead. Rustic wooden tables are mixed with high stools, leather chairs and soft green seating, while large indoor trees add to the relaxed, leafy feel. Quieter rooms have timber-clad walls, warm lighting and a mix of bench seating and smaller tables. Outside, there is a good-sized courtyard with plenty of tables, wooden planters and a bright floral mural, making it a cheerful place to sit in fine weather.
There were 3 cask ales on offer alongside a variety of keg options. I went for Three Swords by Kirkstall Brewery, a pale ale with light citrus and fruity hop flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Junction Inn
Just further up the road in Otley was to The Junction Inn. The Junction Inn has been part of Otley for around 200 years, sitting on the corner of Bondgate and Charles Street. The stone building dates from the early 1800s and has the solid, traditional look you would expect from one of the town’s older pubs. It is Grade II listed, which helps protect its historic character, and the listing also includes the adjoining part on Charles Street. The pub was officially listed in 1974 and has remained a familiar part of this end of Otley for generations. It is a lovely example of the kind of old local pub that gives the town so much character.
Inside, the Junction Inn feels like a proper traditional pub, with dark wood, low beams and plenty of warm, lived-in character. The tiled floor runs through several cosy seating areas, with fixed benches, wooden tables and stools set around a large stone fireplace. Old photographs of Otley cover the walls, while mirrors, framed pictures and a row of beer mugs add a few extra details. The dark wooden bar fits neatly with the old-fashioned look. Outside, there is a sheltered courtyard with picnic tables, string lights and a large mural of Otley Chevin, adding another lovely local touch.
A good choice was available with 8 cask ales plus a range of keg options. I went for Blonde by Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, an English blonde ale with floral and citrus notes, a hint of orange and a clean, hoppy finish.
Cross Pipes Tavern
Another 5 minute walk in Otley brought me to Cross Pipes Tavern & Rooms. We met up here with Greg Mulholland, a former Lib Dem MP for Leeds North West and a well known campaigner to protect pubs, independent breweries and Britain’s beer culture.
The Cross Pipes is one of Otley’s oldest surviving pubs, with the building dating from around 1762. It began as an inn alongside two cottages, with one later becoming part of the pub. Behind it were once a brewhouse, malt house and stables, and the Cross Pipes is remembered as the last pub in Otley to brew its own beer on site. After more than 250 years of serving the town, it closed in 2023. A local group stepped in to save it, carrying out a restoration. It reopened on 23 July 2025 as the Cross Pipes Tavern & Rooms.
Inside, the Cross Pipes has a smart, welcoming look, with green walls, wooden floors and panelling giving it plenty of warmth. Exposed beams and a large stone fireplace keep the older character of the building, while a log burner makes one corner especially cosy. There is a relaxed mix of round tables, taller tables and comfortable bench seating, with soft lighting and framed local pictures around the rooms. One of its most unusual features is the old stone well, now protected by glass. Outside, a spacious, tiered seating area provides plenty of room to enjoy a drink.
There were 3 cask ales available alongside a range of keg options. I went for Easy-Going Assassin by Rooster’s Brewing Co., a session IPA with mandarin, mango and apricot flavours and a juicy grapefruit finish.
North Bar Social
Next up in Otley was to North Bar Social, where we met up with Daniel and Kate who joined us for the next few visits. North Bar Social opened on Bondgate in 2013, bringing the Leeds-based North Bar name to Otley for the first time. It became the group’s sixth venue, joining a business that had started with the original North Bar in Leeds in 1997. Set across two floors, the Otley bar quickly became part of the town’s busy pub scene, with a cosy upstairs room and a large outdoor seating area. Over the years it has built strong links with the local community and remains a popular part of Otley’s pub scene, keeping its small, friendly feel in the heart of the town.
Inside, North Bar Social feels cosy, relaxed and full of character. Downstairs, exposed stone walls, wooden floors, retro lighting and a mix of tables and chairs give the compact room a warm, lived-in look. The curved wooden bar fits neatly to one side, while colourful wallpaper adds interest. Upstairs is even cosier, with a deep cushioned bench, comfortable armchairs, framed artwork, books and an exposed wooden beam. Outside, there is a large paved seating area with long wooden tables and benches beneath open timber frames, with planters and colourful touches making it feel bright and welcoming.
There were 3 cask ales on the bar, along with a range of keg choices. I went for Pale (Cask Series) by Full Circle Brew Co., an English pale ale with subtle citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a light, refreshing finish.
The Black Horse
Our next call was to The Black Horse. The Black Horse has a long history on this busy Otley corner. An inn here was known as the Broken Dragoon by 1742, before the Black Horse name became established. During the 18th and 19th centuries it served travellers, with stables, horses and coaching connections, and later operated as a post house, excise office and commercial hotel. The older building was demolished in September 1900 and replaced by the present Black Horse Hotel, completed in 1901. Its prominent position at the meeting of Westgate and Kirkgate has kept it right at the heart of Otley for well over a century.
Inside, the Black Horse is full of traditional character, with dark green walls, exposed brick, wooden floors and several cosy rooms. Deep buttoned leather seating, old brewery mirrors, framed pictures and etched glass windows give it a proper old pub feel. One of the smartest rooms has a large chandelier, decorative plasterwork, a fireplace and a bright bay window, while the tiled staircase is another lovely feature. Outside, the old stables have been turned into a large covered courtyard, with picnic tables, hanging lights and plenty of room to sit. It feels grand in places, but still relaxed, welcoming and comfortable.
There was plenty to choose from, with 6 cask ales and a wide range of keg options. I went for Fair Weather by Old Mill Brewery, an English golden ale with light, easy-drinking flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Bay Horse
Back towards Otley Market Place brought me to The Bay Horse Otley / @thebayhorseotley . The Bay Horse has stood in the heart of Otley for many years, right on Market Place. The stone building dates mainly from the early 1800s, although parts at the back are thought to be older. Over the years, the pub has also been known as the Bay Mare and Bay Malter. Its history was officially recognised in 1974 when the building was given Grade II listed status. Sitting on the corner of Market Place and Boroughgate, it has long been a familiar part of the town centre. The Bay Horse was refurbished and reopened in May 2026.
Inside, the Bay Horse has a warm, traditional feel, with exposed stonework, old wooden beams and a polished dark wood bar giving it plenty of character. The seating areas feel cosy, with green cushioned benches, small round tables and matching stools tucked around the walls. Large brewery mirrors, wood panelling, patterned carpet and soft lights add to the classic pub look, while the smaller rooms help it feel friendly and comfortable rather than too open. Brass details around the bar fit nicely with the older features. Out the back, there is also a small beer garden, offering a quiet spot to sit outside.
There was a good selection on the bar, with 5 cask ales and a range of keg choices. I went for VAR (Victory Ale Refresher) by Craven Brew Co., an English pale ale with earthy hop flavours, a little sweetness and a smooth finish.
The Horse & Farrier
Heading through Otley brought me to Horse & Farrier. The Horse & Farrier has been part of Bridge Street life for generations. For many years it was known as the Three Horse Shoes, a name linked to the old smithy nearby and the area’s long connection with horses and cattle. In 1983 it was renamed The Lix, before later returning to the Three Horse Shoes name. Around 2010–11, following a refurbishment, it became the Horse & Farrier. The pub later closed for a period, but was brought back to life by Brew York, reopening on 1 May 2024 and continuing a long pub tradition on Bridge Street.
Inside, the Horse & Farrier feels warm, relaxed and nicely spread across a few different areas. Cream walls, grey wood panelling and wooden floors give it a smart but comfortable look, while warm wall lights and framed beer artwork add plenty of character. There is a good mix of wooden tables and chairs, along with brown leather sofas and quieter corners where you can settle in. Stone-flagged floors and a fireplace add a more traditional touch. Outside, there is a spacious paved area with wooden booths, picnic tables and umbrellas, giving you plenty of seating when the weather is good.
The bar was mainly focused on Brew York, with 4 cask ales, a range of keg beers and a fridge packed with cans. I went for Citrus Cinema by Brew York, brewed with OHO Brewing, a fruited IPA with orange and lemon flavours and a fresh, zesty finish.
The Whitakers Arms
Up next in Otley was The Whitakers Arms. The Whitakers Arms has a long history on Kirkgate. In 1822, Edmund Maude was recorded here as a wine and spirit merchant, while William Watson is the first known landlord, listed in 1865. Over the years it was known by several names, including the Dram Shop, Kirkgate Vaults and Quiet John’s Vaults. In 1904, it was bought by Bradford wine and spirit merchants William Whitaker & Co, giving the pub the name it still carries today. More recently, the pub has been smartened up, with improvements to the beer garden and extra space added from the neighbouring former coffee shop, while keeping its traditional character.
Inside, Whitakers Arms feels warm, cosy and full of character. There are wooden tables and chairs, cushioned bench seating and plenty of little corners to settle into. Painted panelling, exposed brick and warm lighting give the rooms a traditional feel, while framed pictures, old pub mirrors and a large map of Otley add plenty to look at. The mix of colours and quirky touches keeps it relaxed rather than too formal. Out the back, there is a good-sized beer garden with picnic tables, greenery and a large covered seating area, giving you plenty of space outside as well.
There was a selection of 4 cask ales alongside a variety of keg options. I went for Blonde by Timothy Taylor’s Brewery, an English blonde ale with floral and citrus flavours, a hint of orange and a clean, hoppy finish.
The Rookery
Over the road in Otley is The Rookery Bar & Venue. The Rookery opened on Kirkgate on Otley Victorian Fayre Day in 2018, created by local hospitality figure Greg Silverwood, who had previously run Rocca Bar in Orchard Gate. It occupies number 12 Kirkgate, part of a handsome mid-19th-century stone building shared with number 10. The building has three storeys and was Grade II listed in 1972, giving the modern bar a lovely historic setting. Since opening, The Rookery has built its identity around being an independent bar and intimate live-music venue, with its upstairs events space, The Nest, helping it become a familiar part of Otley’s nightlife over the years.
Inside, The Rookery has a cosy, slightly quirky look, with dark blue walls, plenty of wood and corrugated metal giving it an easy-going feel. Warm industrial-style lights and leafy touches soften the room, while wooden tables, booths, stools and comfy leather chairs offer plenty of places to settle in. The open staircase leads upstairs to The Nest, a more intimate space used for live music and events. Out the back, there is a small enclosed beer garden surrounded by old stone walls, with picnic tables, benches and a few plants. It feels relaxed, welcoming and full of character throughout.
There was 1 cask ale on offer alongside 4 keg choices. I went for Blonde by Saltaire Brewery, a blonde ale with light citrus and fruity flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Otley Tap House
Next up was to The Otley Tap House. The Otley Tap House sits in a late-18th-century stone building at 66 Boroughgate. It was originally built as a house and was Grade II listed in 1951. By the early 2010s, the building was being used as a shop, before plans were submitted in 2014 to turn it into a pub. The Tap House opened that July, just before the Tour de France passed through Otley. It has remained a popular stop on Boroughgate ever since, although it was refurbished and reopened around Christmas 2019, with further work carried out during the 2020 lockdown.
Inside, Otley Tap House has a relaxed, lively feel, with dark green walls, wooden floors and pale painted panelling adding plenty of warmth. Brewery badges and signs cover much of the walls, bringing colour and character to the different seating areas. Upstairs is roomier, with a large chunky wooden table, seating around the windows, exposed brick and fairy lights. The ceiling covered in old vinyl records is a particularly fun touch. Out the back, there is a covered courtyard with picnic benches, cobbled flooring, plants, string lights and a bold wall mural, making it a comfortable place to sit outside.
Out in the covered courtyard, The Otley Burger Company serves food from its own converted trailer. The menu centres on burgers, with the kitchen sitting beside plenty of picnic-bench seating. It gives the outdoor area a relaxed street-food feel and makes it easy to enjoy a burger alongside a drink outside.
There were 4 cask ales on offer, along with a variety of keg options. I went for Yorkshire Air Ambulance: Northstar by Black Sheep, a pale ale with a smooth malt flavour, gentle bitterness and a crisp, clean finish.
Shadow Brewing
My last call of a fantastic day exploring Otley was to Shadow Brewing. Shadow Brewing has a lovely link to Otley’s industrial past. The brewery was founded in 2019, first operating from owner Ian Shutt’s garage, before moving to 98 Boroughgate in 2021. The site itself has much older roots. During the 1800s, numbers 92–98 formed part of a large printing and bookbinding works used by Webb Millington and later the Yorkshire Joint Stock Publishing and Stationery Company. After a serious fire in 1882, the site was divided for different businesses, with the Alliance Boot Company recorded at number 98 in 1900. Today, Shadow Brewing has given this historic spot a new chapter.
Inside, Shadow Brewing Tap Room feels bright, relaxed and full of personality. Large front windows let in plenty of light, with a cushioned window seat, small tables and a mix of wooden chairs giving you a few comfortable places to settle in. White walls, framed artwork, leafy plants and stacks of wooden crates add a little character, while the wooden floor keeps everything feeling warm. The brewing tanks sit in the back room, which opens directly into the tap room with no separate entrance. Colourful lighting draws your eye towards them and adds to the informal, working brewery feel.
There were 3 cask ales and 4 keg beers available. I went for Market Gold by Shadow Brewing, a blonde ale with light fruity flavours and a clean finish. I also tried Implacable, an English golden ale with fruity flavours and a gentle bitter finish.
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