[2] In the Domesday Book of 1086 the village is written as Roreston, and in 1066 and 1086 lordship of the manor was held by the Canons of the Church of St John, Beverley.

[3][4] Evidence of medieval occupation has been recorded in the village though observations of earthworks, indicating ridge and furrow field systems, enclosures and a hollow way.

[6] Ruston Parva's Grade II* listed Anglican church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

[7] It was built in Norman style in 1832 from ashlar and yellow brick, and has a tower supported inside by cast iron pillars.

[8] Leeds-based band the Kaiser Chiefs originally named themselves Runston Parva after the East Riding of Yorkshire village.