How to get there - From the A64 York bypass take the B1228 until it crosses the canal and then follow the minor road to Melbourne.
For those with SatNav the postcode is YO42 4QP.
Get a map with driving directions to start (enter the postcode of your starting point at A)
Suggested Launch Site - Park at the small car park at the head of the Melbourne branch of the canal. Access along the unmade road next to the Melbourne Arms PH
General
Description - A rural canal with one lock. A number of low bridges which may need portaging. The round trip westward is just under 10 miles. The canal has a very natural feel due to the reedy margins. passes through a very low lying area that is frequently flooded. Important for wildlife. Grassy towpath along the full length.
Comments on this trip
Mark Leigh 24 Aug 2017
I do this trip about 3 times a year, but only in winter. From about May through the to November it is choked with weed. At normal water levels the swing bridges below Hagg Bridge are passable, if you can lean right back and get your shoulder blades on your aft deck. I've done it many times and never fallen in. Gardham Lock is a portage, but there are good moorings. Melbourne arm to Cottingwith Lock and back is 11 miles. It's pretty, peaceful and very pleasant. Takes me about 2 hrs 15 mins normally...a good exercise paddle.
Gill Eate 06 Apr 2014
Hello! I would very much love to hire the Pocklington canal boat for my family in the Summer. Please could you telephone me to discuss availability and packages Thank you.Gill Eate. 07975874504.
Lee 25 Mar 2012
Just looking on Google Earth, what was the Ferry Boat Inn in 2009, looks to be a private house now. Another pub disappears...so sad.
Paul Bunton 13 Mar 2012
A nice scenic and peaceful canal to try out our new sit on top. Got as far as the first lock heading west, took approx 3 hours for the return trip including stop for lunch. Easy launching from the marina behind the pub and good off road parking too. Great place for a first trip.
Keith Day 09 Aug 2010
Thanks for pointing out the postcode error. It's fixed now!
Ian 03 Aug 2010
Hi, just looking at this and you have listed a postcode for the Melbourne Arms in Derbyshire.
Chris Kevane 07 Sep 2009
Did the trip yesterday with the family. We really enjoyed it, really quiet and scenic. We went an extra couple of hundred yards past the lock at Cottingwith and enjoyed a drink at the Ferry Boat Inn which kept the troops fortified for the return paddle.If doing this trip look out for the otter at the confluence with the Derwent!
