Thorner is an ancient village dating back to a Saxon settlement and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Though only eight miles from Leeds is it set within an area of glorious and relatively unspoilt arable farmland countryside and retains a unique village identity. A regular bus service links Thorner with Leeds, Wetherby and Harrogate.

With a population of just over 1,500, Thorner is a thriving and active village with several amenities including a school and pre-school, cricket and football pitches, bowling green, shop, Post Office, playground, GP surgery, hairdresser, three public houses, and restaurant. There is also an Anglican Church nestled at the foot of Church Hill, adjacent to Millennium Green.

There is always something going on in Thorner, more often than not at one of the two village halls, Victory Hall and the Parish Centre, with groups and activities to cater for all.