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

  • Wildlife Friendly Otley bric a brac stall - 31st October 10-14.00 Otley Buttercross Our friends at Wildlife Friendly Otley will be selling nearly new items and Bric-a-brac, crafts, plants, and baked goods at the Buttercross in Otley market Square. Contributions are still wanted – If you have anything,...more
  • Zero Carbon Britain: Mission Impossible - 29th October 18.30-21.00 Online – Register Here including Paul Allen from the Centre for Alternative Technology and Otley 2030’s very own Andy Boyle will be explaining how the technology to make Britain zero carbon already exists and what role communities...more
  • Leeds Woodland Creation Scheme – Autumn 2020 - OTLEY Chevin is one of a dozen places that have been chosen to play a key part in growing future woodlands. Leeds City Council is aiming to plant 5.8 million trees over the next 25 years to help cut the...more
  • Leeds Woodland Creation Scheme - OTLEY Chevin is one of a dozen places that have been chosen to play a key part in growing future woodlands. Leeds City Council is aiming to plant 5.8 million trees over the next 25 years to help cut the...more