Melbourne: Walking Routes Along the Pocklington Canal

Melbourne is a possible starting point for several routes along the Pocklington Canal. Two main focuses can help you plan your stay: walks along the canal and the town’s architectural history. The route lengths and conditions on the towpath can help you choose outings that suit your plans.

Routes Along the Pocklington Canal

The Melbourne Circular is a four-mile circular route that starts in Melbourne and includes a short section of the Pocklington Canal. Another option is the two-mile route from Melbourne to Bielby and back along the towpath. The routes differ in both length and format: the Melbourne Circular is specifically described as a circular route, while the other route connects Melbourne and Bielby with a return along the towpath. The Pocklington Circuit can also be started in Melbourne.

The towpath is uneven in places and can be muddy in winter. Take these conditions into account when planning. The upper sections of the Pocklington Canal are currently inaccessible by boat; however, the towpath is open to walkers. Check current access before your visit.

Parking is available in Melbourne for the circular route from East Cottingwith to Melbourne. There is also roadside parking about 100 to 150 yards from the Pocklington Canal. As parking arrangements can change, it is advisable to check the situation before your visit. The Pocklington Canal Amenity Society offered 20-minute trips on the canal boat New Horizons on Sundays during the summer months. If a boat trip might be part of your visit, check in advance whether trips are running on your travel dates.

Canal History and Nature

The Pocklington Canal was built in the early 19th century to transport agricultural goods from the East Riding to the south and west. A two-mile section between Bielby and Melbourne reopened in 2018. Along the canal, the waterway’s historic role in transport meets the story of its restoration.

The canal is also a haven for wildlife. Along the route, you may spot pipistrelle bats, burnet moths, meadow rue and water dropwort. This mix of animal and plant life gives nature enthusiasts specific things to look out for along the towpath.

Historic Buildings in Melbourne

Melbourne Hall is a Grade II listed building dating from around 1780 to 1790. Pocklington Canal Church Bridge is also Grade II listed. It is an early 19th-century road bridge over the canal. The two structures date from different periods: the hall is from roughly the late 18th century, while the bridge is from the early 19th century.

The Church of Saint Monica adds its own architectural description to these details. It has a two-bay nave with north and south transepts. Its architectural features include corrugated iron, iron sheeting on the roof and timber elements.

Discover more destinations: Arnold, Wansford, Paull, Barmby Moor, Pocklington, Walkintgon, Howden, Hull.

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