Otley Courthouse Volunteer Heritage group meets about once a month at the Courthouse, usually during the day.

Members organise themed Heritage Open Day events annually, in September. They help to research the history of the building, the lives of those who worked here or attended court for whatever reason, as well as the role of the Courthouse, Police and Fire Station in the history of Otley.

In 2012, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the group produced the book ‘Memories of Otley Courthouse’. It is the result of over 50 interviews with people from all walks of life, including reporters, policemen, criminals, and magistrates. In April 2014 volunteers launched the new ‘Timeline of Otley Courthouse’ on four large display panels in the cell corridor. This sets the history of the building in the context of local and national history, and was also funded by The Heritage Lottery Fund. New display boards have been put up inside the building, highlighting aspects of Courthouse life before the courts closed in 1997, and including one in the cell featuring Superintendent Warburton, in charge at the Police Station in 1914.

If you have an interest in local history why not get involved?

Talks about the history of the building, and the renovation of the Courthouse are also available.

Please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator for further details or if you are interested in joining the group.