Image shared for Pocklington Canal, Canal Head to Melbourne Arm
Canal / Riverside Out & back

Pocklington Canal, Canal Head to Melbourne Arm

East Riding of Yorkshire

Distance
8.9 mi
Est. time
4h
Difficulty
Medium
Put a date on this walk View route
PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A longer, level walk along the Pocklington Canal, from Canal Head to the junction with Melbourne Arm and back. Start at the Canal Head picnic-site parking entrance and follow the towpath past Top Lock, Silburn Lock and the quieter upper reaches. Old locks and brick bridges give the walk a clear sequence of landmarks. Beyond Coates Bridge, the canal bends south towards Bielby Arm, then turns west through Walbut Lock and Thornton Lock. Turn back at the north-bank junction opposite Melbourne Arm, before the swing bridge.

The towpath stays on the same bank throughout this outing. Returning the way you came keeps navigation simple, and you can shorten the walk at any lock or bridge. Much of the route is grass or earth, so boots are useful after rain. Allow around four hours of walking, with extra time for a picnic and watching wildlife among the reeds.

Take care where the towpath crosses the small bridge-access lanes, keep children away from lock edges, and give anglers and other path users room. Carry food and water; this route does not visit Melbourne village.

Walk details

Walk type
Out & back
Category
Canal / Riverside
Distance
8.9 mi (14.3 km)
Est. time
4h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

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What does the organiser do?

The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.

Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.

Can I walk this route on my own?

Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.

What happens after I join?

Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.

How do I confirm plans with the group?

Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.