In 1902 Joseph Rowntree purchased land to establish the garden village of New Earswick to provide homes not only for his workers at the nearby cocoa works, but to improve the living conditions for the wider community of York. The village offered homes with gardens and surrounded by open space. In 1906 work on the Folk Hall commenced which is a community centre used by many groups and for social activities. In 1912 the primary school with its clock tower which is a local landmark was built. This is now where the office of the Parish Council is situated
Throughout its development a number of different styles of homes have been introduced. In addition venues such as New Lodge which offers flexible care and Hartrigg Oaks a retirement community have been established. In 1991 a large part of New Earswick was designated a Conservation Area.