4.5
(384)
2,940
hikers
171
hikes
Hiking around Bielby is characterized by its gentle, rural landscape, primarily featuring flat terrain and canal-side paths. The region offers numerous circular routes that often follow the Pocklington Canal, providing easy access to waterways and open countryside. Elevation gains are minimal across most trails, making the area suitable for relaxed walks. The landscape is predominantly agricultural, interspersed with small woodlands and quiet village settings.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.4
(14)
69
hikers
17.6km
04:26
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
43
hikers
12.5km
03:10
30m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
17
hikers
5.94km
01:30
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
8.00km
02:02
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
27
hikers
15.6km
03:55
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The first of 5 disused locks between the canal head and Coat's Bridge. Although the next 4 (Silburn, Giles, Sandhill and Coat's Locks) are derelict, Top Lock's principal structure is relatively intact, and the lock gates and manual and hydraulic gearing mechanisms have been restored to traditional design.
2
0
Silburn Lock is the second of 5 disused locks as you walk from the canal head at Pocklington towards Coat's Bridge.
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Giles Lock is quite easy to see, not as overgrown as some of the others, and the canal is but a shadow of its former self immediately south of the lock.
2
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Very overgrown and difficult to see, this is one of 5 disused and derelict locks between the canal head at Pocklington and Coat's Bridge.
1
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Links the village of Bielby to the road running between Melbourne and Allerthorpe. The disused Coat's Lock is immediately adjacent just to the north of the bridge, and the bridge was Grade II listed in 2010.
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No longer used for mooring, the Bielby Arm marks the eastern limit of the canal's navigation. You can walk north to Coats Bridge on either side of the canal from the Bielby Arm.
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Lock just 250m east of Church Bridge where there is some off-road parking. Grade II listed since 1987 and was restored along with Walbut Lock to create another 2 miles of navigable canal.
1
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Bielby offers a wide selection of routes, with over 170 hiking trails documented on komoot. This includes a good mix of easy, moderate, and a few more challenging options to explore the gentle, rural landscape.
Yes, Bielby is an excellent area for easy walks. There are 85 easy routes available, characterized by flat terrain and minimal elevation gain, often following canal-side paths. A great example is the Top Lock – Pocklington Canal loop from Pocklington, which is 5.1 km long and considered easy.
The hiking terrain around Bielby is primarily gentle and rural, featuring flat paths, canal towpaths, and open agricultural land. You'll also find small woodlands and quiet village settings. Elevation changes are generally minimal, making for relaxed walks.
Yes, the Bielby area is well-known for its numerous circular routes. Many of these trails follow the scenic Pocklington Canal, offering convenient loops back to your starting point. The Pocklington Canal – Pocklington Canal Lock loop from Pocklington is a popular moderate circular route along the canal.
While hiking near Bielby, you can explore several interesting natural and historical sites. Highlights include the serene Millington Wood Nature Reserve, the beautiful Burnby Hall Gardens, and the historic Pocklington Canal itself. You might also encounter St. Helen's Well or the Rifle Butts Quarry Nature Reserve.
Many of the trails around Bielby are well-suited for families with children due to their gentle, flat nature and minimal elevation. The canal-side paths are particularly pleasant for a family outing. Look for the easy-rated routes for the most family-friendly options.
The hiking routes in Bielby are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 350 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil canal paths, the peaceful rural scenery, and the accessibility of the trails for various fitness levels.
While the terrain is generally gentle, there are longer routes available for those seeking a more extended walk. For example, the Melbourne Arms – Top Lock loop from Thornton is a moderate 17.6 km trail, offering a longer exploration of the local countryside.
The gentle landscape of Bielby makes it enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant canal-side strolls, while autumn brings beautiful colors to the small woodlands. Even in winter, the flat paths can be accessible, though appropriate gear is always recommended.
Many routes around Bielby connect to or pass through quiet villages, offering opportunities to experience local life and potentially find amenities. While specific pub information isn't detailed for every route, starting or ending your hike in a village like Pocklington or Melbourne often provides access to local establishments.
As Bielby is a rural area, parking is generally available in or near the villages that serve as common starting points for hikes, such as Pocklington or Melbourne. Look for designated car parks or suitable roadside parking, being mindful of local regulations and private property.
Most rural paths and canal towpaths around Bielby are generally dog-friendly. However, as the area is predominantly agricultural, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through fields with livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always carry bags to clean up after your pet.


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