Research by dendrologists has shown that the tithebarn is at least 450 years old.
It is often referred to as "Rupert's Barn" because Prince Rupert is said to have stationed part of his army in the barn before the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644.
There is also a historical connection with the Restoration of King Charles II. In 1660, Lord Fairfax and two hundred Yorkshire gentlemen gathered at the barn before marching into York, Yorkshire for the proclamation of the restored King.