Thorner Circular Walk

Michael Palmer
8 hours ago
2 min read

A Brief History of Thorner

Nestled just eight miles north-east of Leeds city centre, Thorner is one of West Yorkshire’s most picturesque and historic villages. The name Thorner comes from Old English, meaning “thorn-covered slope,” reflecting its setting among gentle hills and ancient hedgerows.

Thorner has roots stretching back to Anglo-Saxon times, and it’s even mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Tornoure. The village grew as a small agricultural settlement and later became a key stop between Leeds and Wetherby. Its medieval layout still defines much of the village today, with narrow lanes, traditional limestone cottages, and the impressive St Peter’s Church, parts of which date back to the 12th century.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Thorner thrived as a rural community, with mills, farms, and local markets shaping village life. Many of the old farmhouses and inns still stand, including The Mexborough Arms and The Fox, both popular stops for walkers exploring the area.

What to Expect on a Thorner Walk

Thorner is surrounded by rolling farmland, ancient woodland, and quiet bridleways, making it ideal for countryside walks close to Leeds. Popular walking routes include:

🥾 The Thorner Circular Walk – A 4-mile loop through open fields, quiet lanes, and sections of the old railway line.
🌳 Hetchell Woods & Pompocali Walk – A longer 6-mile route taking in Hetchell Crags, Scarcroft Hill, and the mysterious Roman-era earthworks known as Pompocali.
🌿 Connecting Trails – The area links easily with the Leeds Country Way and Wetherby Railway Path, offering plenty of options for extended hikes.

Expect scenic views across the Wharfe Valley, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful rural atmosphere, all just a short drive from the city.

Practical Information

Location: Thorner, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS14
Parking: Limited free parking around Main Street and Milner Lane
Public Transport: Bus connections to Leeds and Wetherby
Facilities: Village pubs, a café, and a local shop for refreshments
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for wildflowers; autumn for colourful woodland walks

Why Visit

Thorner offers the perfect mix of Yorkshire history, countryside charm, and easy accessibility from Leeds. Whether you’re looking for a quiet Sunday walk, a heritage trail, or a pub lunch with a view, Thorner makes an ideal starting point.