The small village of Cockerton lies close to Darlington. The village is named after the Cocker Beck on which it stands. It was first recorded in 1050 in the Historia de Sancti Cuthberto, in which it was called Cocertun. Although a few Roman coins were found there are few other ancient remains.

By the 16th century historic records show that people attending church at St Cuthbert's Church were living in Cockerton. These were tenants of the Bishop of Durham whose cottages clustered round the green. Yearly rent was paid to the Bishop for their homes, but the tenants also worked seasonally for him.

There was also a linen trade here during the 18th century when men worked from their homes. This was dramatically affected when weaving machines were installed in the Darlington Mills.