| Description | The Exley name occurs at Upper Exley (formerly Near Exley) and Exley Hall Farm (SE 101220), at Far Exley (SE 101225) and at Exley Bank (SE 097226). This is a well documented 'eccles' name from the medieval period onwards and is one of the few good examples (i.e. not ambiguous) of the name in W.Yorks, referring to the probable location of a Britsh church or monastic site. Unfortunately, the names are spread over c. 0.3 sq. kms and much of the area is developed. There is therefore little hope that the 'eccles' site will be identified on the ground other than by chance. Note proximity of another British name Chevinedge (PRN 2361). (See also PRN 4985). Exley Hall (Farm) itself was a quasi manorial centre in the Middle Ages and is well documented then and later. It is, for example, marked on 1597 map with the name of Robert Dean (brother of William Dean who tenanted Eland Old Hall nearby). Concern for this site is likely to be related mainly to the buildings but a low priority field visit, to ascertain whether any earthwork remains of the earlier medieval site survive, may be worthwhile. WYAS appraisal in first instance. |