The small port of Barrow Haven, 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north, on the railway line from Cleethorpes and Grimsby to Barton-upon-Humber handles timber from Latvia and Estonia.

King Wulfhere gave land to Caedda (Saint Chad) in the 7th century at Ad Barvae (at the wood).

There are numerous clubs and societies that meet in the Vicar's Room (next to the Church), the Methodist Schoolroom (adjoining the Chapel) and the Village Hall.

The churchwarden's house that was located immediately to the east of the church path was condemned and demolished at about the same time.

The space is used for a number of village events including the annual Wheelbarrow Weekend and the Christmas Fair.

In 2020, a statue of John Harrison was installed, alongside new seating bearing motifs celebrating his life and work.