Seeped in history and unspoilt by modern times, Thornton–Le-Dale has a long and fascinating history dating back to at least the Neolithic period. The high ground to the north of the village was farmed by Neolithic man, who left their mark in the shape of tumuli and a cart burial at Pexton that has been dated to 300BC.
It is believed that The Angles, who conquered Yorkshire between AD 500-540, must have given Thornton its name, the countryside was thickly wooded so the name suggests a place surrounded by thorn bushes.
The Square is in the centre of the village and here on the village green, you will see the Market Cross and Stocks.
Following the Norman Conquest, Thornton Manor was given to the Crown and later William gave it to his sister Adelaide whose third husband was the Count Odo, the founder of the House of Albermarle.
In 1281, the Manor was in the hands of John De Easton and King Edward I granted him a weekly market on the village green. The market no longer operates but the market cross and stocks, which were last used for public punishment of wrongdoers in 1874, remain.
Today The Green is a focal point of the village, hosting Sunday afternoon band concerts in the summer and the annual switch-on ceremony of the Christmas lights in December.
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