How to Plan the Perfect Weekend in Ilkley and Otley
Wander the quaint cobbled streets and stop by the independent shops in these traditional Yorkshire towns
ILKLEY
Eat
Thirty Nine Kitchen and Bakehouse focuses on fresh and seasonal food, serving breakfast, brunch and lunch. Dine on the terrace or inside their dog-friendly café, or try Toast House independent coffee shop for hot coffee and a baked treat to start your day. Bettys Tearoom is a Yorkshire staple. The Ilkley Cow specialise in succulent steaks (try the spiral cut ribeye with chimichurri) or visit Friends of Ham for delicious charcuterie, small plates and carefully chosen wines and beers. For fine dining in an award-winning restaurant, book a table at The Box Tree, but if you just fancy a drink, The Gin Lounge has more than 200 gins from around the world to choose from.
Sleep
Taking pride of place in Ilkley town centre is The Crescent Inn, an award-winning hotel and French restaurant which dates back to 1860. Boasting 14 boutique bedrooms, roaring open fires in the winter and outdoor seating in the summer, this is the perfect place to relax. On the edge of the spa town, The Wheatley Arms has 12 cosy and dog-friendly bedrooms, as well as a traditional pub serving Yorkshire favourites and using only the freshest, local ingredients.
Browse
Nora’s award-winning lifestyle shop has something for everyone, from interiors to candles, fashion and gifts; Fig & Willow specialise in sustainable fashion and homeware; and Bath House is where you can find deliciously-scented artisan fragrances and natural skincare. Covet is an independent concept store bringing ethically-sourced and fair trade products to the town, Anna Morgan is the place to be for interiors and Attic Womenswear and 5th Avenue both have a brilliant range of fashion brands. Don’t miss The Cashmere Cabin for new and pre-loved luxury jumpers and accessories, and make sure to pop into Lishman’s of Ilkley for multi-award winning meats and charcuterie.
DON'T MISS
At the heart of Ilkley, Manor House (built on top of a Roman Fort) is now a community space, acting as everything from a museum, to a gallery and a live venue. During the warmer weather you’ll want to take a trip to Ilkley Lido. Head up to the Cow and Calf Rocks for beautiful views over the town below and check out the Twelve Apsotles, an ancient standing stone circle on Ilkley Moor.
OTLEY
Eat
Popular with locals, The Yew Tree Inn serve delicious Sunday roasts alongside real ales; The Royalty is known for its panoramic views across Wharfedale as well as great pub grub; and The Fleece is perfect for a refreshing pint in the beer garden when the sun is shining. For a taste of Italy in Otley, head to Buon Apps – a delightful Italian positioned next to the River Wharfe.
Sleep
If you’re looking to stay close to the shops and restaurants, The Black Horse Hotel is in the heart of Otley. Doubling up as a pub, it also serves traditional food and the best of local craft beers. For the full nine yards, Chevin Country Park Hotel & Spa is the UK’s largest log cabin, built from imported Swedish logs and positioned beside tranquil woodland. With 16 bedrooms, 28 cabins and four lodges, there’s plenty of space here.
Browse
Otley is proud to have plenty of independent shops to browse. Find great brands at Harriet’s ladies clothing and accessories store, freshly baked bread and pastries at Bondgate Bakery and a specialist selection of craft beers, real ales and cans from around the world at The Curious Hop.
DON'T MISS
Browns Gallery is the oldest established gallery in Otley, standing on the site of the alleged birthplace of Thomas Chippendale. It showcases some lovely original artwork and premium gifts. The Knotties Stone on Otley Chevin has some of the oldest prehistoric rock art in the county, and Otley Courthouse is a former police station and Magistrates Court, which has been developed into a popular arts centre, featuring shows, talks, and films.
