A journey of just ten miles north of the City of Leeds presents a transformation from a dynamic city to the beautiful and undisturbed countryside of Lower Wharfedale.

Fans of Emmerdale will recognise much of the Lower Wharfedale scenery, and Otley has also played host to the popular TV series Heartbeat.

Aside from playing host to TV programmes, Otley is steeped in history and north country charm, and has much to interest visitors. The River Wharfe running through the town is an ideal location for relaxing riverside walks, and Wharfemeadows Park beside the river has attractive gardens, boating facilities, tennis courts and children's play areas.

Parts of All Saint's parish church date back a thousand years, to Norman times and this was where celebrated cabinet maker Thomas Chippendale was born and grew up.

Otley is renowned for its market days on Fridays and Saturdays, plus Tuesdays in the summer. The Farmer's Market takes place the last Sunday of every month in the market place (except in December when the market is held on the Sunday before Christmas) from 9am - 1pm. The town has held a market since Saxon times.

Otley Chevin - the large hill - dominates the town, and is more than just a point of outstanding natural beauty. It also caters for the ramblers, picnickers, horse riders, climbers and those just looking for a bit of peace and quiet and some superb views.

Annual events include the Otley Show, which takes place on the Saturday before spring bank holiday. The Otley Carnival is also popular, and takes place on the third weekend in June. The Victorian Fayre is organised each December and heralds the start of Christmas, with the locals dressing up in Victorian costume and organising activities for the many visitors.

Otley is really at the heart of rural Leeds and makes an ideal day out, whether to explore the countryside or visit the attractive and exquisite shops. With a journey time of just 45 minutes from Leeds, it really should not be missed.

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