OUGD505 - Leeds Public Spaces - Otley Chevin Research

The Chevin is the name given to the ridge on the south side of Wharfedale in Leeds. Overlooking Otley, the Chevin has become synonymous with the market town, leading many to know the ridge as Otley Chevin.

Facts About The Chevin:

• The Chevin is largely covered in woodland and heathland.

• A Roman road ran along the top of the Chevin, part of the road that linked Eboracum (York), Calcaria(Tadcaster) and Olicana (Ilkley). This is perhaps on the same route as the modern road, Yorkgate, or perhaps about 800m to the south.

• The highest point of the Chevin, Surprise View, reaches 282 metres (925 ft) offering extensive views of Otley and Wharfedale.

• A cross has been erected at the top of The Chevin every Easter since 1969.

Recreation

Several formations of rock are distributed across the upper slopes of the Chevin, and are popular for climbing and bouldering. The Chevin also has a number of footpaths and bridlepaths, making it popular with walkers, runners and riders alike. Additionally, there is also an Orienteering course in the forest park, with maps available from the local tourist office. As a recreational area, the Chevin is divided in two by the East Chevin road.

Traditional Print Potential

While not in the city itself, The Chevin as a public space provides a number of design potentials, in particular the cross which has been erected at the top of The Chevin every Easter since 1969.