Help us build our permanent home
Wharfedale Men's Shed is a charity based in Otley. Our aim is to combat loneliness and social isolation — particularly, but not exclusively, for men. We meet in a workshop where we get together in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and work shoulder to shoulder on projects, mainly in wood for either personal use or for the local community.
We are raising funds for a permanent home of our own at the Masonic Lodge, Otley — which will allow us to expand and help more people.
Our fundraising to date stands at a magnificent £55,000, with donations and grants from Otley Lions, Sinclairs, Postcode Lottery, Northern Circuit Barristers, Skipton B.S., National Lottery Community Fund, Arnold Clark, and Ilkley Round Table.
This covers the workshop units we need. However, to make our building accessible for all, we still need to install disabled facilities — access ramp, toilet and more.
Registered charity 1183609 — Wharfedale Men's Shed
Every contribution makes a difference
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Shed Happens at Otley Green Fair
Wharfedale Men’s Shed had a fantastic day at the Otley Green Fair, selling £113.37 of handmade wooden items and connecting with the local community. Our Marble Run drew plenty of smiles before the drive shaft gave way — a great reminder of the fun and purpose that community events bring.
Sectional Flower Kiosk build!
Bob M, Stuart, and Bob E built a bespoke red cedar kiosk for Jo in Menston, who sells plants to raise funds for the MS Trust. Using donated materials and teamwork, they crafted and assembled the kiosk on-site—delighting Jo with the finished result. A proud project for Wharfedale Men’s Shed.
Sowing Solidarity: New Planters Bloom for Otley’s Community Larder
To support the expansion of its “pay as you feel” food offering, Otley Community Larder teamed up once again with Wharfedale Men’s Shed to construct eight custom planters—including two striking three-tiered designs. Faced with space constraints at the workshop, Shed members pre-built the planter sides for easy transport and assembly. Despite delivering on a cold, rainy Monday, the team installed all eight in time for the 31st May group planting session, where vegetables and edible flowers will be sown to enhance the larder’s fresh food supply.
WMS at Colton Methodist Church Plant Sale
WMS joined the Colton Methodist Church plant sale, where Malcolm, Loz, and John shared Shed-made wooden crafts and a crowd-pleasing marble run. The event was full of friendly faces and great conversation, highlighting the power of community and shared purpose. A big thank you to our hosts for a wonderful morning. We raised a total of £113.87 for our WMS funds.