North Ferriby: Bronze Age Boats and Routes Along the Humber

Bronze Age boats were discovered in North Ferriby; listed buildings and routes along the Humber estuary also contribute to the character of the place. If you are planning a hotel stay, you can think of the area in terms of two distinct interests: historical traces and time by the water. This can help you decide whether the local history or one of the waterside routes should feature more prominently in your travel plans.

The Ferriby Boats and Local History

The Ferriby Boats are Bronze Age boats built using planks, discovered in North Ferriby. They are considered Europe's oldest watercraft. Their discovery took place in three stages: the first boat was discovered in 1937, the second in 1940 and a third in 1963. Their construction, period and discoveries at different times make Ferriby a specific topic in regional archaeology.

All Saints in North Ferriby represents another part of the area's history. The present church building was designed by John Loughborough Pearson, R.A., and completed in 1848 after three years of construction. It is listed as a Grade II building. Its architectural features include the three-storey west tower and its broach spire. The date, architect and tower design give the church a distinct profile within the local history of architecture.

The North Ferriby War Memorial also brings together design and remembrance. The First World War memorial dates from 1920; later additions include the Second World War. It commemorates 24 local servicemen who died in the First World War, as well as twelve who fell in the Second World War. A Grade II listed memorial, it consists of a Portland stone cross with an inverted sword carved in relief. The numbers show the scale of local commemoration, while the relief is a specific design feature of the memorial.

Ferriby House and Ferriby Priory represent other periods. Ferriby House is a house dating from around 1760 to 1770 and is listed Grade II*. Ferriby Priory was founded around 1150 as a priory of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre. This local history therefore spans from the medieval priory through Ferriby House to the church built in 1848.

Walks Along the Humber Estuary

At the Humber Foreshore Walks, you can choose between two different types of route: a ½-mile circular route and a 2½-mile one-way route to the Humber Bridge. Both start at the Riverside Walkway car park in North Ferriby. The longer distance is listed as a one-way route; take this into account when planning. Riverside Walkway is a public recreational area that visitors can also use. The walks offer wide views of the Humber estuary, as well as opportunities to watch passing boats and wildlife.

A waterside route towards North Ferriby offers opportunities to spot wading birds such as oystercatchers and curlews. Winter is specifically mentioned for curlews. This seasonal difference can be taken into account when watching wildlife, while views of the estuary and passing boats are other features of the Humber routes.

Routes and Getting There

The route from Barton-upon-Humber to North Ferriby is 76 percent traffic-free and can be started at North Ferriby railway station. This is another option for planning your trip, alongside the circular and linear walks along the Humber estuary. By car, you can reach North Ferriby via the A63 from both the west and the east; from the north, access is via Swanland. Access depends on traffic conditions.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Flamborough, Coniston, Kirkburn, Thwing, Hutton Cranswick, Withernsea, Barmby Moor, Tickton

For the broader travel overview: East Riding Of Yorkshire.