[3] Embsay was originally a Celtic settlement, possibly founded at the same time as a local monastery, destroyed in a Viking raid in 867 AD.

The village has a Saxon name and is listed in Domesday Book as "Embesie", which translates as "Embe's enclosure".

[5] The Augustinian members of the priory dedicated it to Saint Cuthbert and received local tithes.

In 1154 they exchanged estates with the de Romille family and moved to Bolton Abbey, which was a more fertile location.

[8] Embsay Village Hall events include film nights, pantomimes, bowls, and jumble sales.

[10] The village has a Church of England voluntary controlled primary school which receives pupils from Embsay, Skipton and farther away.

Also at the north of the village is a recreational ground with a climbing frame and small football pitch.