A Lost Settlement on the South and West Yorkshire Border

The deserted medieval village of Hodroyd, a Scheduled Ancient Monument, is on High Well Hill Lane, Felkirk and offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s rural past. Today, the site presents as an open grass field featuring earthworks, including prominent ridge and furrow patterns indicative of historical agricultural practices. The earliest recorded mention of Hodroyd dates back to 1120, when Swein, son of Ailric, granted the “Church at Hoderode” to the monks of Nostell Priory. By the later 1100s, records indicate that the land was owned by Sir John de Hoderode, who served as the steward at Pontefract Castle. The village likely developed around this period, with agriculture forming the backbone of the local economy.

Records show that Dr Berrie acquired “an Estate at Hodroyd lying near the church” in the early 1600’s s which suggests the continued existence of the village at this time.

The reasons behind Hodroyd’ s desertion remain unclear, but by

the early 1700’s, the village had largely become uninhabited as it is no longer shown on maps of that period. Factors such as economic decline, changes in land use, or population shifts, and illness (Plague in the mid 1600’s) may have contributed to its abandonment. Today, only Hodroyd Hall and a few other buildings stand as a testament to the village’s former existence.

• Hodroyd Hall: An Elizabethan manor house, Hodroyd Hall is a Grade II listed building constructed from sandstone with stone slate roofs. It served as the country seat for notable families, including the Gargrave’s and later the Berrie family.
• Peter’s Church: Located in Felkirk, St. Peter’s Church has historical ties to the Hodroyd estate. In the 17th century, Prudence Berrie, who lived at Hodroyd Hall, provided funds for a school master for the local community, indicating the family’s influence in the area.
• The Old Schoolroom

This is situated in the churchyard at St Peter’s and was where the school master taught local children from the funds provided by Prudence Berrie.

• Hodroyd Cottage: Formerly two separate dwellings, this cottage historically housed workers from the Hodroyd Estate, reflecting the estate’s role in supporting local livelihoods.

In addition to the village remains, a post-medieval tannery is located nearby. Though the tannery itself no longer stands, the site still features earthworks, leats, ditches, and ponds, indicating its former industrial use. This tannery is separately listed as an ancient monument by Historic England, emphasizing its significance in the region’s post-medieval history.

Conclusion

While the village of Hodroyd no longer exists, its remnants, along with surviving buildings like Hodroyd Hall and St. Peter’s Church, offer rich insights into the region’s medieval history and heritage. The archaeological features serve as an enduring connection to the past, making the site an important landmark for historical research and exploration in the future. Maybe an Archaeological Survey could be carried out in the future on the earthworks.