The parish was historically in the AmoundernessHundred. It lies between the Calder and Brock valleys. The A6 road runs through the west end of the parish, a short distance south of the town of Garstang.
Claughton is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, appearing as Clactune. Later variations include Clacton, 1184; Clagton and Clahton, 1253; Claghton, 1284. The name is believed to be of Saxon origin, meaning 'farm on the hill'.
The Fitzherbert-Brockholes family have been associated with Claughton on Brock since the time of Edward II. They were regarded as recusants during and after the Reformation. The family has a large agricultural estate with 16 farms, which date back to 1395, the oldest being Manor House Farm is believed to be the 'Farm on the hill' from which the name Claughton originates. The parish had a public house, the Brockholes Arms, which closed for business in 2013. Afterwards, the building was converted into an Italian restaurant, which has also since closed for business. In 2018 the Brockholes Arms reopened as a public house.
Another old house of Claughton is Claughton Green, which was once part of the Claughton Green Estate before being bought by the Fitzherbert-Brockholes family. Adjacent to Manor House Farm, the large whitewashed house originates from the 18th century.
The parish of Claughton lies on the northern bank of the River Brock, extending from the A6 to the foot of Bleasdale Moor, in the Borough of Wyre in Lancashire. Major roads in the parish include the A6, B6430, May Lane and Lydiate Lane.