Does anyone know the origin of the surname of Bates?

Question:

Does anyone know the origin of the surname of Bates?

I think it's English, but does anyone know what part of UK specifically? Or am I completely wrong and its not English at all?
I was told my great-grandfather was from Ireland and his last name is (was) Bates? Bates does not sound Irish to me...?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I have family from Enlgand and Ireland. Actually the Bate families from England and Ireland, Scotland,. They moved back and fourth. Most of them came from England