Welcome

Otley Chevin Forest Park is on the ridge on the south side of Wharfedale, West Yorkshire, overlooking the market town of Otley and is a designated nature reserve comprising 700 acres of woodland, crags and open heathland. It is locally referred to as ‘Otley Chevin’ or ‘The Chevin’.

The park’s north-facing escarpment rises steeply to a height of 282m (925ft) above sea level at Surprise View and offers extensive views of the Wharfe valley.

A variety of historical features remain enabling a picture of the evolution of this landscape that is the result of many thousands of years of interaction between people and nature.

The Chevin has a number of footpaths and bridlepaths, rock outcrops and ponds all of which provide opportunities for activities for all ages.

Friends of Chevin Forest Park

The Friends of Chevin Forest are a group of volunteers who care about Chevin Forest Park (known locally as The Chevin) and we work in partnership with Leeds City Council’s Parks & Countryside service, who own and manage the land. Our aims are to increase your enjoyment of Chevin Forest Park and to help you understand more about the landscape, it’s history and natural features.

This website has been kindly supported by  Otley Town Council and Bondgate Bakery.

News & Events

  • Friends of Chevin Forest – Open Evening - Come and find out more about Friends of Chevin Forest! We are holding an Open Evening at The Horse and Farrier, Bridge St, Otley, on Tuesday 16th January at 7.30pm. Come and hear more about our wonderful local green space...more
  • Big Butterfly Count! - Join Friends of Chevin Forest for a Big Butterfly Count on Sunday 6th August! See our results: Butterflies and moths Meet at 10 am at Yorkgate Quarry Car Park – please let us know if you would like to join...more
  • Chevin Discovery Day 2023 - Join the Otley Nature Network for the Chevin Discovery Day 2023!! On Sunday 25th June there will be stalls to visit and activities to take part in from 11 am – 4 pm with some specific events taking place at...more
  • Tree disease workshop - Join the Friends of Chevin Forest on Wednesday 19th July for a Tree Disease Workshop, delivered by Dr Charles Lane, an expert in tree diseases from FERA Science. The workshop will be outdoor focused, walking around Otley Chevin’s woodlands and...more