Warburton has a history of settlement stretching back to the 11th century, with the possibility of earlier habitation. There are 17 listed buildings in the village, including the timber framed Grade I Church of St Werburgh, which is at least 700 years old. Among the other listed buildings are examples of architect John Douglas' work, including the second Church of St Werburgh, built in 1883. In 2006, "Time Team" excavated in the lands of Moss Brow Farm in Warburton, looking for a Roman fortlet. However, no evidence of a fortlet was found and the previously identified 'punic' ditch turned out to be the remains of an 18th century hedgerow.