July’s shaping up to be a belter in Otley — and the theme this month? Bikes, bottles and Bennett. We’ve got the high-speed thrills of the Otley Cycle Races, a chance to explore hidden corners of Spain through wine and tapas, and a beautifully British brush with Alan Bennett’s wit and wisdom live on stage.

Add in free live music, family fun at Gallows Hill, and a double helping of the farmers’ market — and it’s clear Otley’s calendar is spinning at full speed this summer. Here’s what’s on…

Pedal Power Returns to Otley
Wednesday 2 July
One of the biggest nights in Otley’s sporting calendar is back — the Otley Cycle Races roar into town on the first Wednesday of July, with high-speed action from 5.30pm until 10pm. As one of the UK’s top cycling criteriums, expect a buzzing atmosphere, roadside crowds, and a brilliant night of elite racing on our streets. Get in early to grab a good spot — and don’t forget some loose change for a pint and a portion of chips. Roads close from 4.45pm.

Comedy That Cuts Close to the Bone
Saturday 5 July
If you like your laughs a little on the edgy side, don’t miss risqué vocalist and lightning-fast comedian Ric Owen at The White Swan on Boroughgate. With a reputation for outrageous musical comedy and quick-fire gags, this is a night for grown-ups with a high tolerance for innuendo. Starts at 7pm — not for the easily offended!

Summer Sounds in the Square
Every Saturday from 12 July
Live music is back in Otley’s Market Place this summer! Music in the Marketplace kicks off on Saturday 12 July and continues every Saturday through July and August from 11am to 1pm. Organised by Woolpack Studios and backed by Otley BID, the first performance features local talent Gamini Khurana — with something different each week. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s the perfect soundtrack to your Saturday shop.

Celebrating 30 Years of Nature at Gallows Hill
Saturday 12 July
Pack up the kids and head to Gallows Hill Nature Area for a family-friendly day in the great outdoors. From 10am to 3pm, Otley Town Council and the Friends of Gallows Hill invite you to explore the nature trail and help mark 30 years of community care for this much-loved local wildlife haven. Expect mini-beast hunts, guided walks, and hands-on nature activities for all ages.

A Taste of Hidden Spain
Thursday 17 July
Back by popular demand, Tapas & Tunes and Chez Vin present another mouth-watering wine and food pairing night — this time exploring the theme of ‘Undiscovered Spain’. Expect bold new flavours, regional surprises and expert commentary from the ever-brilliant David Lawson. Tickets are £45pp and include wine pairings and a multi-course tapas feast. Starts 7pm — early booking highly recommended.

Woolpack Studios Weekend Takeover
Friday 18 & Saturday 19 July
It’s a Woolpack Weekender! On Friday 18 July, the Woolpack Choir and Otley Rock Orchestra bring their eclectic sounds to Otley Courthouse for a live performance double bill. Then on Saturday 19 July, from 12–5pm, head to the Woolpack Courtyard on Bondgate for a free open-air showcase featuring local bands and young musicians, all just steps from North Bar’s beer garden. A perfect summer vibe.

Alan Bennett’s Brilliant Monologues Take the Stage
Friday 18 – Saturday 19 July
The acclaimed Otley Players return to Otley Courthouse with two poignant and witty monologues from Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads. Catch Woman of No Importance and Her Big Chance performed live on Friday and Saturday evenings, with a Saturday matinee for good measure. Intimate, sharp and very British.

Double the Farmers’ Market Fun
Sunday 13 & Sunday 27 July
Good news for foodies — once againm this month you get two chances to visit Otley Farmers’ Market. The first runs on Sunday 13 July, with the second on Sunday 27 July, both from 9am to 1pm in Market Place. Stock up on fresh produce, handmade treats, and artisan goodies while supporting brilliant local producers.

Craft and Creativity at Otley Courthouse
Sunday 27 July
Also on the last Sunday of the month, the Otley Courthouse Craft Market offers a charming mix of handmade art, gifts, and homeware. Doors open at 10am and the market runs until 1pm. It’s the perfect way to pick up a unique gift or something lovely for yourself.

See https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/ for more details of these and another events