To the south, separated by a stream, is Rushton James, which is bordered by Long Edge in the west, and Ryecroft Gate in the east.

[4] Two manors existed by the early 13th century; the northern part, originally called Hugbridge, was held by Sir Hugh le Despenser (hence the name Rushton Spencer), who paid chief rent to Ranulf de Blondeville, 6th Earl of Chester; by 1251 the rent was paid to Dieulacres Abbey, near Leek, established earlier by Ranulf de Blondeville.

The manor house probably stood on the site of Rushton Hall Farm, which lies near the road between Congleton and Ryecroft Gate.

This road, passing through Rushton James, was part of the medieval route known as the Earlsway, which linked this and other estates of the Earls of Chester.

[3] The Anglican church of St Lawrence is on high ground south-west of the village, grid reference SJ934621.

[3][6][8] The existing building, which is Grade II* listed, has medieval timber-framing and was rebuilt in sandstone in the 17th century.

[10] St Lawrence is one of the churches in the United Benefice of Cheddleton, Horton, Longsdon and Rushton Spencer, of the Diocese of Lichfield.

It was replaced in 1899 by the present brick-built church in Rushton Spencer, on Sugar Street, east of the main road.