The Moat House was originally constructed as the manor house for Appleby Magna, shortly after the Norman conquest in 1066. It was built on the site of an earlier manor house. Until the 16th century it was the home of the wealthy de Appleby family, who took their name from the village. Sir Edmund de Appleby fought in the Battle of Crecy in 1346. He also financed the enlargement of Appleby Magna Church (St. Michael's and All Angels') to its current size. Sir Edmund and his wife Joan are buried in the de Appleby Chapel in alabaster tombs.