Henley

Henley is a British surname with origins tracing back to early medieval times. The surname is of locational origin, derived from the town of Henley, which exists in various places across the United Kingdom. The name Henley is believed to come from the Old English words hean meaning high and leah meaning clearing or meadow, suggesting that the original bearers of the name may have hailed from a high meadow or clearing.

The surname Henley is relatively common in England, particularly in areas where the town of Henley-on-Thames, known for its annual Royal Regatta, holds historical significance. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the surname Henley have made notable contributions in various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts.

Famous bearers of the Henley surname include William Ernest Henley, a renowned poet and critic known for his poem Invictus, and Anthony Henley, an 18th-century politician and author. The Henley surname continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining its presence in British society and genealogy.

The Henley surname reflects the rich history and heritage of British culture, embodying a legacy of resilience and creativity that has endured through the centuries.

There are approximately 3,934 people named Henley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,373rd most common surname in Britain. Around 60 in a million people in Britain are named Henley.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Caroline
  • Claire
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Janet
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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