Clayton-le-Moors is a historic township located in the ancient Parish of Whalley in Lancashire. Situated approximately three miles south of Whalley and two miles north of Accrington, the township is bordered by several neighboring communities: Read to the north, Altham to the north, northeast, east, and southeast, Church to the south, Rishton to the west, and Great Harwood to the northwest.

The earliest recorded mention of Clayton-le-Moors dates back to 1243, when it was called “Cleyton.” This name comes from the Old English words claeg and tun, meaning a settlement on clay soil. By 1284, it was referred to as Clayton super Moras with Moras indicating the “high tract of barren land,” a nod to the elevated ground between Accrington and Great Harwood.

Like many towns in northwest England, Clayton-le-Moors saw significant growth in the 19th century, fueled by the booming textile industry. Calico printing was a dominant trade, alongside local soap production, both of which contributed to the area’s economic development. Within the township, Henfield (or Enfield) was known as the “upper” end, while the “lower” part, closer to Great Harwood, was called Oakenshaw.