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

  • Chevin BioBlitz - Join Friends of Chevin Forest, Wildlife Friendly Otley and Wharfedale Naturalists on Saturday 26th July for a free fun packed day of activities to help us identify all the moths, butterflies, bees, plants, bugs and more that are living on...more
  • Big Chevin Balsam Bash! - This summer we will be getting together to tackle the Himalayan Balsam growing across Chevin Forest Park. Himalayan Balsam is an invasive species that grows quickly and shades out other ground vegetation; by removing the plant each year, we hope...more
  • West Chevin Historical Walk - Join the Friends of Chevin Forest for a historical walk around Chevin Forest as part of the Otley Walking Festival 2025. Meet your guides Penny and Ineke at the far end of Station Rd., Otley, LS21 3HZ at 10.30 am...more
  • Chevin Forest Buildings – have your say! - Leeds City Council are currently undertaking a council-wide review of their building stock which includes the buildings up at the White House. These buildings include the Education Room and the café building. It is our understanding that LCC may be...more