Threshfield: Henges, Church and Local History

Threshfield particularly appeals to travellers who want to take archaeological and church history into account when planning a trip. Specific historical points of interest include a Neolithic henge, St Margaret Clitherow Church, The Old Hall and the lime kilns at Threshfield Quarry. These topics relate to different periods and subjects: from a prehistoric structure and a saint’s dedication to a house with a history spanning several phases and quarry operations.

Archaeology: Threshfield Henge 2

One specific archaeological point of interest is Threshfield Henge 2, the southern henge at Threshfield Henges. The Neolithic monument consists of standing earthworks and archaeological remains preserved underground. Two opposing entrances are located to the northwest and southeast. These details connect its state of preservation with a clearly defined orientation. Thanks to its standing earthworks, Threshfield Henge 2 is among the better-preserved known henges in the country. It was designated a Scheduled Monument on 26 March 2026. This makes it possible to distinguish between the Neolithic period when it was created and its much later designation as two separate periods in time.

Church and historic dedication

St Margaret Clitherow Church is located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is one of the very few churches dedicated to Saint Margaret Clitherow, who died as a martyr in York in 1586. The historical significance of the dedication therefore lies in the person and the year of her death, while the church’s location in the national park establishes its geographical context. This offers a different perspective for trip planning than the henge: the focus here is not the form of a prehistoric monument, but the link between a church dedication and a saint identified by name and placed in a specific historical period.

The Old Hall: two building phases

The origins of The Old Hall and its later condition should be considered separately in time. What remains is part of a 16th-century house, probably built for the Radcliffe family. Today, the remnant is an outbuilding; it was probably rebuilt in the mid-to-late 19th century. Thus, both the origins of the house and a later phase of construction are part of its history. The change from a 16th-century house to today’s outbuilding, including its presumed rebuilding, makes The Old Hall an example of a building with a history spanning several phases.

Lime kilns and rugby

The heritage trail at the lime kilns of Threshfield Quarry has a smartphone app. It includes photos and videos of the quarry in operation and explains the kilns’ distinctive construction. This sets it apart from the henges: the focus here is on quarry operations and kiln construction. Threshfield Quarry is currently closed due to health and safety concerns; access arrangements may change. Check the current access status before planning a visit.

Wharfedale RUFC is based in Threshfield on The Avenue. The Wharfedale Rugby Club in Threshfield has also hosted a National League match. Rugby is therefore another point of local interest alongside the cultural and historical topics. If you are travelling for a match, check the specific match dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Newton-Le-Willows, Ripley, Austwick, Green Hammerton, Redcar, Riccall, Whitby, Burythorpe.

For the wider travel overview: North Yorkshire.