 The route has been in existence since prehistoric times and there are folk-tales about famous people from history using it.When turnpikes were installed between York and Coxwold, drovers would take their cattle this way because it was wide enough and meant they avoided paying the tolls.The road begins at Thirsk, sprouting off from the A19 road and A168 junction with a short section north into the town before turning due east and going over the dualled A19.