In the early 13th century, Heaton Norris was a sub manor of Manchester, it encompassed all of the Four Heatons. In 1322, there were 32 dwellings suggesting a population of 150, the ten freeholders of the escheated manor had the right to graze on common pasture and to cut wood. Evidence of this pre-railway existence can be seen from the name Shaw Farm, Shaw Fold farm, and the road pattern Heaton Moor Road, Shaw Road, Shaw Fold Lane, Pin Fold, Green Lane. Parsonage Road and Cranbourne Avenue follow the lines of ancient tracks.