Arley Family History

From Arley (Warwicks), which is recorded as Earnlege in 1001, Arlei in 1086, and Arnlege in 1221. Areley Kings (Worcs) is recorded as Ernele in 1156, Arneley in 1275, and Arleye in 1291, or Upper Arley (formerly in Staffs, now Worcs), recorded as Earnleie in 996, Erlege in 1188, and Arnlege in 1276.

All three place-names derive from Old English earn ‘eagle’ + lēah ‘open woodland’. Compare Earley. Possibly from Arley in Aston by Budworth (Cheshire), which is recorded as Harlae in 1336, Arlegh in 1340, and Harlagh in 1347. The place-name derives from Old English lēah ‘open woodland’ with an uncertain first element, perhaps hār ‘hoary, grey’.

From Arley in Blackrod (Lancs), which is recorded as Erelegh in 1283 and Erley in 1394, or Arley in Mellor (also Lancs), recorded as Ereley in the 13th century and Arley in 1558. The place-names derive from Old English lēah ‘open woodland’ with an uncertain first element.

The post-medieval bearers cited under (1) may alternatively belong here.