[3] The form of the name has been influenced by Melmerby in Coverdale, 16 miles (26 km) west, which has a different origin.

It was historically a manor and chapelry in the parish of Wath in the North Riding of Yorkshire.

A branch line ran westwards from Melmerby to the small market town of Masham, which is famous for its brewing.

[9] During the war the village was the site of a large munitions store, taking advantage of the railway access.

[11] The village has a pub, The George and Dragon Inn, a cricket team, the Wath & Melmerby Cricket Club, who play in the Nidderdale League and the village also stages an annual 10-kilometre (6.2 mi) road race which has been held since 1984.