Here at Kanyu, we’ve developed a strong bond with the Wetherby area. We’re proud to be based in such a historical area, which serves as the perfect setting for engaging and unique storytelling through our escape rooms. In this post, we’d like to give you the history of the area you’ll find yourself immersed in when you enter our Outdoor Escape Room, Poachers’ Compound.
Origins of Wetherby
Wetherby is a market town within the metropolitan borough of Leeds City. Wetherby as a town can be traced back as early as 1086 when it was mentioned in the historical “Domesday Book” under the name ‘Wedrebi’. This name roughly translates to “settlement on the bend of a river”.
Wetherby was once home to a castle, built without royal consent. Wetherby Castle was built by the Percy Family to guard the River Wharfe. The castle was ordered to be demolished by King Henry II in 1155 and the land it once stood upon is now home to flats.
The area found itself home to the Knights Templar between the 12th and 13th century, who were granted land across Yorkshire. By 1240 the Templars had been given the rights to hold a market in ‘Werreby’, alongside an annual three-day fair in honour of St James the Apostle.
Wetherby as it was then was badly burned and many were killed in the 1318-1319 raids of Northern England by the Scots. Historians believe Scott Lane may have been named to commemorate these attacks.
Wetherby in the Civil War – Industrial Revolution
As early as the 17th century, Wetherby was a major area for travel. Many coaching inns were built in the area. Parliamentarians including Oliver Cromwell himself stayed in the Half Moon Inn for two days during the Civil War.
In 1824, almost every location in Wetherby except one house was sold by the Duke of Devonshire. This became known as the Great Sale of Wetherby.
Wetherby became heavily industrialised in the Victorian era, becoming well-known for its brewery and mill. Thanks to campaigning by the local Wetherby News, Wetherby found itself with a newly constructed railway link to Leeds, with a Railway station on Linton Road. This industrial expansion and the 1852 Wetherby Gas Works has put Wetherby on the map to this day.
As you can see, the surrounding area makes for an engaging and intriguing backdrop to our excellent range of Escape Rooms here at Kanyu Escape. Experience the tale of the enigmatic Sir Henry Cunningham and try to beat one of our notoriously difficult escape rooms today. Book your place now, and we’ll see you next time to discuss Wetherby’s History from the 20th century to the modern day, including interesting sites and venues to explore in the local area.