The Bowling Green in Otley is T&A's Pub of the Week

Dating back to 1757, the upper storey of the detached stone building was used as the town’s assembly rooms and later as a place of worship by the newly-formed Society of Independents, now the United Reformed Church.

In 1825, came a dramatic change, when number 18 became an inn, The Bowling Green. Incredibly, the hostelry - our Telegraph & Argus Pub of the Week - has continued to serve customers ale and food into the 21st century.

The Bowling Green in Otley. Picture: David Webb Photography

Retaining its name over the centuries, the inn has seen many owners. The earliest recorded licensees are Hannah Cawood in 1829 and Joseph Mallinson in 1834.

More recently, in 2006, Trevor and Judith Wallis ended their time at the pub by auctioning their numerous collectables previously on display inside. The collection included a full-size crocodile and other stuffed animals, clocks, musical instruments and propellers.

Amid concern that the Grade ll-listed building was destined to be converted to flats, in 2010 the pub became part of the JD Wetherspoon group, under which it has grown and flourished. Last year it underwent a £1.5million expansion and refurbishment.

The stylish makeover has been well-received by both regulars and visitors to the market town. “People really like it, including people who have been coming for a long time," says manager Laura Dietman, who took the helm in March this year.

"We have a good few regulars - one man who comes in celebrated his 25th birthday here and is now aged 80.

Manager Laura Dietman. Picture: David Webb Photography

“We have a decent amount of space both inside and outside, including a beer garden which is really popular on sunny days. It’s a great pub and there’s a really good atmosphere."

She adds: “It’s a good location, not far from Otley Chevin. People come before or after they’ve had a walk and have a drink or lunch. Some come along for a coffee - they are refillable, people like that.”

A cosy corner. Picture: David Webb Photography

It's light and airy inside. Picture: David Webb Photography

Another look insider. Picture: David Webb Photography

There’s a varied menu of pub classics including bangers and mash - a vegetarian version is available - steak and kidney pudding and fish and chips. Burgers, pizzas and katsu curry dishes are also popular. Breakfasts are served between 8am and 12pm.

A special children’s menu is made up of a meal a drink and fruit.

“We are popular with families coming to have a look around Otley,” says Laura, who has worked for Wetherspoon for more than eight years at locations in London and Leeds. The Bowling Green is her first pub as manager.

Of the wide selection of drinks, Guinness and San Miguel are among the most popular.

Laura manning the pumps. Picture: David Webb Photography

There’s a TV for any customers who want to keep abreast of news and sporting events.

Later in the year Laura plans to start holding pub quizzes and is hoping to organise charity events such as a sponsored walk around Chevin Forest Park.

• The Bowling Green, 18 Bondgate, Otley LS21 3AB; jdwetherspoon.com/pubs