Old Royston loop walk

Michael Palmer
Mar 11, 2023
1 min read

Updated: Nov 3

Old Royston – From Farming Settlement to South Yorkshire Village

Ancient Origins and Rural Beginnings

Old Royston in South Yorkshire (often simply called Royston) is a village with deep roots. The name is recorded as Rorestone in the Domesday Book, meaning “Hror’s or Roarr’s settlement”.Originally a farming community, it sat in the historic West Riding of Yorkshire before urban growth and industry transformed the area.

Industrial Transformation and People

The arrival of the Barnsley Canal in the 1790s and later the railway connected Royston to wider markets and heavy industry.During the 20th century the village became closely tied to coal mining and coke-works; one significant site was the Monckton Coke Works, which operated until 2014.At its peak, the collieries provided employment for thousands and shaped the community’s character and heritage.

A New Chapter – Green Spaces and Regeneration

Following the decline of heavy industry, much of the former mining and industrial land around Royston has been reclaimed for nature and recreation. One major transformation is the Rabbit Ings Country Park — once spoil-heaps, now wetlands and woodlands supporting all five native British owl species. Today, Royston balances its industrial past with green spaces, community life and proximity to towns like Barnsley and Wakefield.

Why Visit and Explore

Whether you’re interested in heritage walks or countryside access, Royston offers both. You’ll find traces of its coal-mining legacy, old railway routes, and revitalised natural areas — making it a compelling destination or stop-over on a Yorkshire walk.