It operated as a 55-over limited overs cricket competition, with teams organised into a number of groups, often with a final.
The tournament was the first formalised women's cricket competition in England, with teams having previously only played one-off and friendly matches.
Between 1988 and 1994, the competition was followed by the Women's Territorial Tournament, competed for by regional sides selected from the Area Championship teams.
Yorkshire were the most successful side in the history of the Area Championship, winning six titles, including all of the last five tournaments.
The inaugural Women's Area Championship took place in 1980, with 12 teams taking part in four regional groups.