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, its history and natural features.

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

News & Events

  • Bryophyte Walk 2026 - Want to learn the difference between a sphagnum and a haircap moss? Or a crestwort and a featherwort? If so, join the Friends of Chevin Forest on Sunday 15th February 2026 for an exploration of the bryophytes living in Chevin...more
  • Otley Christmas Tree Festival 2025 - The Friends of Chevin Forest will have a tree at this year’s Otley Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints Parish Church on Kirkgate in Otley from 10th – 13th December 2025. https://www.visitotley.co.uk/event/otley-christmas-tree-festival-2025-day-1/ The festival provides an opportunity for local charities...more
  • Chevin Forest Park Calendar 2026 - The Chevin Forest looks beautiful throughout the year and to celebrate we’ve curated a collection of photographs from across the seasons for the Chevin Forest Park Calendar 2026! Our calendars are on sale for £10 from Mistal Cafe on East...more
  • Yew Tree Inn Christmas Fair - Come along to the Yew Tree Inn Christmas Fair where we’ll be selling copies of our Chevin Forest 2026 Calendar. The fair will run from 2 – 6 pm on Saturday 29th November – we hope to see you there!