Summary

The surname Ridley has its origins in England and Scotland. It is derived from a place name meaning 'reed clearing' or 'reed meadow'. The name has been recorded since medieval times and has a rich history associated with it.
There are
11521
Ridleys in the USA
Ridley is the
3133rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Ridley

NicholasRidley

Nicholas Ridley was an English theologian and bishop who was executed for his opposition to the Roman Catholic Church during the reign of Queen Mary I.

ArnoldRidley

Arnold Ridley was an English actor and playwright, best known for his role as Private Godfrey in the British sitcom 'Dad's Army.'

RidleyScott

Ridley Scott is a renowned British film director and producer, known for directing films such as 'Alien,' 'Blade Runner,' and 'Gladiator.'

DaisyRidley

Daisy Ridley is an English actress, best known for her role as Rey in the 'Star Wars' sequel trilogy.

RidleyPearson

Ridley Pearson is an American author of suspense and adventure novels, best known for his 'Kingdom Keepers' and 'Peter and the Starcatcher' series.

MattRidley

Matt Ridley is a British journalist and author, known for his books on science, economics, and human nature, such as 'The Rational Optimist' and 'The Evolution of Everything.'

JasperRidley

Jasper Ridley was a British author and barrister, known for his works on historical topics, including his biography of Thomas Cranmer.

TobyRidley

Toby Ridley is a British artist who specializes in contemporary abstract paintings and mixed media artwork.

TonyRidley

Tony Ridley is an Australian film director and producer, best known for his documentaries and short films exploring indigenous cultures and environmental issues.

JesseRidley

Jesse Ridley is a Canadian hockey player who has played professionally in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Ottawa Senators and the Nashville Predators.

Ridley Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Ridley' is of English origin and is derived from a place name in Northumberland, England. The name is believed to mean 'woodland clearing where reeds grow.'
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Ridley' is primarily found in the United Kingdom, especially in the regions of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and County Durham. It is also found to a lesser extent in other English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Ridley' include 'Ridle,' 'Riddle,' 'Rodley,' 'Riddley,' 'Radley,' 'Redley,' 'Readley,' 'Ridler,' and 'Ridleigh.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Ridley' has been carried by individuals who migrated from the United Kingdom to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.