Which towns in the UK have "by" as their suffix in their names?

The Suffix "By" in UK Town Names

The suffix "by" is a common feature in many town names in the United Kingdom. It is often added to the end of a place name to indicate a settlement or village. The origin of the suffix is said to be Old Norse, from "byr," meaning village or settlement. The use of "by" in place names can be traced back to the Viking invasions of the 9th and 10th centuries when Norse settlers established settlements throughout the country. Today, many towns and villages in the UK bear this suffix, and this article explores some of the most notable ones.

Historical Context: Origins of "By" in Town Names

As mentioned, the origins of the "by" suffix can be traced back to the Viking invasions of the 9th and 10th centuries. The Vikings brought with them their language, Old Norse, and many of the place names they gave to settlements and villages are still in use today. The use of "by" in place names was particularly prevalent in the north and east of England, where the Vikings had the most significant impact. The suffix is often used in combination with other words, such as "thorpe" (a small village) or "ton" (an enclosed settlement), to create unique place names.

By the Sea: Coastal Towns with "By"

Many of the towns with the "by" suffix are situated on or near the coast. One such example is Whitby, a town in North Yorkshire that was once a major whaling port. Other towns include Grimsby in Lincolnshire, which was once an important fishing port, and Flamborough in East Yorkshire, which is known for its impressive cliffs and lighthouse. These coastal towns often have a rich maritime history and are popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors with their scenic coastal views and traditional seaside charm.

Inland "By"s: Towns without a Coastline

Although many "by" towns are located by the sea, there are also many inland towns with the suffix. These include Derbyshire’s Alfreton and Belper, which were once centres of the cotton industry, and Rugby in Warwickshire, which is known for its connections to the sport of the same name. The presence of "by" in these town names may reflect their origins as small villages or settlements that grew into larger towns as a result of industrialisation.

The North-South Divide: "By"s in Different Regions

The use of "by" in place names is prevalent throughout the UK, but there are regional differences in its usage. The north and east of England, for example, have a higher concentration of "by" towns, reflecting the area’s Viking heritage. In contrast, towns in the south and west of England tend to have different suffixes, such as "ford" (a river crossing) or "bourne" (a stream). Examples of "by" towns in the north include Kirby Lonsdale in Cumbria, while the south has towns like Goring-by-Sea in West Sussex.

Industrial "By"s: Towns with a Manufacturing Past

Many "by" towns have a history of manufacturing and industry. For example, Scunthorpe in Lincolnshire was once a major centre for iron and steel production, while Grimsby was known for its fishing industry. The presence of "by" in these towns’ names may reflect their origins as small villages that grew into larger settlements as a result of industrialisation. While many of these towns have undergone significant changes in recent years, their industrial past remains a significant part of their identity.

Rural "By"s: Agriculture and Countryside

Some "by" towns have a more rural character, reflecting the area’s agricultural heritage. Examples include Cheltenhamby Salt in Gloucestershire, which was once a centre for salt production, and Ormskirk in Lancashire, which is known for its weekly market. These towns often have a strong connection to the surrounding countryside and are popular with tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ecclesiastical "By"s: Religious Heritage

The suffix "by" is also found in many towns with a religious heritage. Examples include Glastonbury in Somerset, which is known for its connections to Arthurian legend and Christian pilgrimage, and Whitby in North Yorkshire, which was once an important centre for the Christian church. The use of "by" in these town names may reflect the area’s history as a site of religious significance or a place where religious communities established settlements or monastic orders.

Uncommon "By"s: Lesser-known Towns

While some "by" towns are well-known and popular with tourists, others are lesser-known but still worth a visit. These include Brethertonby in Lancashire, which has a rich history of agriculture and is home to the award-winning Farmhouse Breakfast Week, and Faringdonby in Oxfordshire, which has a strong connection to the writer Evelyn Waugh. These towns may be small, but they offer a unique insight into the country’s history and heritage.

Tourist "By"s: Popular Attractions

Finally, many "by" towns are popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors with their scenic beauty, historical significance, or cultural attractions. Examples include Scarborough in North Yorkshire, which is known for its sandy beaches and historic castle, and Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire, which has a rich history of castle building and is home to a number of historic buildings. These towns offer a wealth of things to see and do, from exploring historic landmarks to enjoying a day at the beach.

Conclusion: Diversity and Significance of "By" Town Names

The suffix "by" is a common feature in many UK town names, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. From coastal towns with a maritime past to rural settlements with an agricultural heritage, these towns offer a unique insight into the country’s past and present. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of a new place, there’s sure to be a "by" town that will capture your imagination.

References: Sources and Further Reading

"Origins of Place Names in the UK." British History Online. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/topographical-dict/england/pp1-13
"The Viking Invasion of England." History Extra. https://www.historyextra.com/period/viking/viking-invasion-england-facts-alfred-the-great/