The nights might be drawing in, but there’s certainly no shortage of reasons to get out and about in Otley this November! From world-class musicians and a milestone beer festival to the town’s first ever book festival, there’s plenty happening before the Christmas celebrations get underway. Throw in some fascinating science, thought-provoking cinema, fabulous markets and festive fun, and November is shaping up to be another busy month in Otley. Here are some of the highlights.
Old songs with a brand new twist
The Black Horse
Sunday, November 1
Traditional folk music gets a thoroughly contemporary makeover when Jon Doran & the Northern Assembly take to the stage at the Black Horse. Combining Jon’s powerful vocals with the exceptional musicianship of Jordan Aikin and Heather Ferrier, the trio breathe new life into traditional songs and stories from across the British Isles through inventive arrangements and remarkable instrumental skills. Anyone who thinks folk music is a little old-fashioned might be in for a surprise!
The Mayor’s got his dancing shoes on!
Otley Common
Saturday, November 7
Forget ceremonial chains and ribbon cutting. Otley’s Mayor Mick Bradley is getting behind something altogether more energetic with the Mayor Mash-Up. Taking place at Otley Common on Walkergate, the event features a line-up of DJs playing dance, techno, house, drum & bass and garage. The evening will also raise money for Otley Common and two local charities, Otley 2030 and Music & Arts Project Leeds. All good reasons to dust off those dancing shoes.
The Floral Dance comes to Otley
Otley Parish Church
Saturday, November 7
Not many brass bands have a million-selling hit single to their name, but Brighouse & Rastrick Band is no ordinary brass band. Their 1977 recording of The Floral Dance spent nine weeks at number two in the UK charts, making them household names well beyond the traditional brass band circuit. Almost 50 years later, they’re still at the top of their game, having been crowned 2025 British Open Brass Band Champions. Their performance at Otley Parish Church offers a chance to hear one of Britain’s most celebrated brass bands in a magnificent setting.
Just what you’ve always wanted?
Otley Courthouse
Sunday, November 8
With her towering beehive hairstyle, distinctive voice and wonderfully theatrical performances, Mari Wilson became one of the most recognisable faces of British pop in the 1980s. Now the Neasden Queen of Soul is coming to Otley Courthouse, accompanied by her musicians for a show combining classic hits, including Just What I’ve Always Wanted, with material from her new album Girl About Town. Tickets are selling fast, so fans would be wise not to leave it too late. Otherwise, they might end up crying a river!
Science gets seriously entertaining
Otley Courthouse
Thursday, November 12 – Saturday, November 14
Sir Isaac Newton, ancient Greek technology and the dangers of solar superstorms are just some of the subjects under the microscope at this year’s Otley Science Festival. Opening with Professor Mike Edmunds exploring the life and work of Newton, the three-day programme also features films, fascinating talks and the ever-popular Science Café. Saturday’s Family Science Fair is another highlight, with interactive experiments and demonstrations designed to get curious minds of all ages thinking.
A little folk magic at the Farrier
Horse & Farrier
Friday, November 20
Twice crowned FATEA Male Artist of the Year, Chris Cleverley has earned a devoted following thanks to his intricate fingerstyle guitar technique, evocative lyrics and distinctive approach to contemporary folk. His intimate solo performance at the Horse & Farrier will showcase his exceptional musicianship, including material from his two acclaimed Christmas albums and imaginative arrangements of traditional carols. A chance to enjoy a gifted songwriter and guitarist up close.
A quarter of a century worth raising a glass to!
Otley Common, Walkergate
Friday, November 20 – Saturday, November 21
Otley Beer Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary with a change of scenery this November. After many successful years at Otley Rugby Club, the festival moves to Otley Common, where more than 40 real ales will be available alongside craft beers, ciders, wines, spirits and alcohol-free alternatives. Add live music, locally sourced food and the chance to support local good causes, and there’s plenty worth celebrating. Cheers to 25 years!
Flamenco from the very top drawer
Otley Courthouse
Saturday, November 21
It’s not every day that a musician ranked among the world’s top three flamenco guitarists comes to town. Juan Martín has spent decades captivating audiences around the globe with his extraordinary command of the Spanish guitar, performing everywhere from New York to Shanghai and Melbourne. His remarkable career even includes a performance at Picasso’s 90th birthday celebrations. Not a bad addition to the CV! He’ll be showcasing the intricate rhythms, dazzling technique and raw emotion that have made him one of flamenco’s most respected performers.
A powerful story spanning generations
Otley Courthouse
Sunday, November 22
Otley Film Society joins forces with Leeds Palestinian Film Festival to present All That’s Left of You, a moving drama from writer and director Cherien Dabis. Spanning several generations of a Palestinian family, the film examines how conflict, displacement and loss shape individual lives and family identity. The story centres on a mother recounting her family’s past following an incident involving her teenage son at a protest in the West Bank. An intimate and deeply human perspective on decades of history.
Let there be Christmas lights!
Market Place
Monday, November 23
One of Otley’s favourite festive traditions takes over Market Place as the town gathers for its annual Christmas Lights Switch-On. Entertainment gets underway shortly after 5pm, with performances from local school choirs, an appearance by Mayor Mick Bradley and the first public airing of this year’s Visit Otley Christmas song. There’ll also be fairground rides, festive food and drink, before the celebrations culminate in a spectacular fireworks display at 7pm. The countdown to Christmas officially starts here!
Make a wreath, make a memory
Mollie & Mauve Studio, Otley
November 26, 27 and 28, with further dates in December
Why buy a Christmas wreath when you can enjoy making your own? Otley florist Mollie & Mauve is hosting a series of workshops where participants can create beautiful seasonal decorations using fresh winter foliage, berries, pine cones and other natural materials. Owner Rachel will provide expert guidance throughout, while festive refreshments and a relaxed studio atmosphere make it as much a social occasion as a creative one. No previous floristry experience required, and you’ll leave with something lovely for your front door.
A novel new chapter for Otley
Otley Common
Friday, November 27 – Sunday, November 29
Otley’s cultural calendar gains a brand new addition with the launch of the town’s first ever BookFest. Billed as Beyond a Literature Festival, the three-day celebration goes well beyond traditional author readings, exploring subjects as diverse as fiction, graphic novels, landscapes, mountain running and literature in translation. Among the highlights is a special Saturday evening concert featuring comedian, author and broadcaster Robin Ince alongside The Bookshop Band. With an eclectic programme of writers, performers and interesting ideas, Otley’s inaugural literary festival looks set to be quite a page-turner!
Handmade gifts without the high street hassle
Otley Courthouse
Sunday, November 29, 10am–1pm
Looking for Christmas presents with a little more personality? Otley Courthouse’s monthly Craft Fair brings together independent makers and designers selling an assortment of original, handcrafted items. There’s one important rule for stallholders: everything must be designed and made by the person selling it. That means every purchase supports an independent creative, and there’s a good chance of finding something you won’t see anywhere else.
Fresh, local and full of flavour
Market Place
Sunday, November 29, 9am–1pm
Freshly baked bread, artisan cheeses, locally reared meats, tempting cakes and a host of other Yorkshire goodies will be filling Market Place for November’s Otley Farmers’ Market. The monthly gathering of local food producers and specialist traders is a favourite with shoppers who appreciate quality ingredients, traditional craftsmanship and knowing where their food comes from. With the Craft Fair taking place just a short stroll away at Otley Courthouse, Sunday morning offers the perfect excuse to explore the town and get a little Christmas shopping underway.
For details of these and other events in Otley, see https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/