Best attractions and places to see around Ellerton, East Riding of Yorkshire, include a mix of historical sites and natural waterways. The village is situated west of the B1228 road and east of the River Derwent, offering scenic riverside views. The area features historical landmarks such as the site of a former priory and a Grade II listed church. Nearby, visitors can explore canals and nature reserves, providing diverse outdoor experiences.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
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Lovely woodland, nice spot for a stroll.
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A beautiful rural canal of two halves, the upper reaches of the Pocklington Canal between Canal Head and Melbourne is characterised by un-restored locks, tree lined towpaths, and classic humpbacked bridges. Only the lower reaches of the canal is open to boats, lying in an open landscape of floodplains and meadows, rich in wildlife, and identifiable by its distinctive swing bridges. Once threatened, the canal was saved by the work of local volunteers and campaigners, and is now home to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Look out for Church Bridge and Swing Bridge No. 7 on the Pocklington Canal – both recently restored. Lots of history on wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pocklington_Canal Maps (and other useful pages) on the Pocklington Canal Amenity Society website: https://www.pocklingtoncanalsociety.org/maps
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If you follow the small woodland path around the far northern edge of the Common, just next to South Moor Field, you will be rewarded with a stroll through a fabulous Silver Birch wood, and a huge number of mature Oak trees. This is a little off the beaten track through the centre of the Common, but the paths are easily navigable and not overgrown (even in Summer).
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Remnants of RAF Riccall are clearly visible around this loop. The base has a rich history and served as a heavy bomber (Handley Page Halifax) operational conversion unit during the Second World War. Three runways were constructed to form an "A" shape, which allegedly had to be rebuilt after they started to subside and sink into the soft ground. The entire common is riddled with patches of concrete and asphalt that represent the remains of the taxiways and flight pan.
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Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.
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Open for all visitors (including sightseeing) from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily and the Gift and Coffee Shop is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm (1.30 to 3.00pm on Sundays). Visiting may be restricted during service times. https://www.selbyabbey.org.uk/
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This is a beautiful rural canal that stretches 9.5 miles (15 km) between East Cottingwith and Canal Head. The canal path is lined with trees and passes by numerous original locks and elegant humpbacked bridges. It's a delightful stretch of walking – truly.
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Howden is a market and minster town in the Vale of York, characterised by the impressive arch of the Minster's ruined chancel and the St Peter's Church.
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Ellerton and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the site of the former Ellerton Priory, a scheduled ancient monument, or explore the Grade II listed St. Mary's Church in the village. Nearby, don't miss the elaborately decorated 14th-century ruins of Howden Minster Ruins, which are free to enter. The area also features historical canals like Pocklington Canal and Selby Canal, both with significant historical importance for trade and transport.
Yes, Ellerton is home to the site of a former Gilbertine priory, founded before 1212, and St. Mary's Church, rebuilt in 1848 with a notable Norman arch. Just about 7 miles away, you can explore the impressive Howden Minster Ruins, a beautifully decorated 14th-century chancel and chapter house. The nearby village of Aughton also features All Saints Church with a unique salamander carving.
Ellerton is situated east of the River Derwent, offering scenic riverside walks and views of the floodplains. You can also enjoy walks along the tree-lined towpaths of Pocklington Canal and Selby Canal. For a unique natural experience, visit the Ancient Oak Trees of South Moor Field, Skipwith Common, which offers a stroll through a beautiful silver birch wood with many mature oak trees. Askham Bog, a marshy nature area with a wooden walkway, is also nearby and known for its ecological diversity.
The natural areas around Ellerton, particularly along the Pocklington Canal and the River Derwent floodplains, are rich in wildlife. The Pocklington Canal is home to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Askham Bog is considered one of the most ecologically diverse sites in the UK, offering opportunities for spotting various species. Keep an eye out for swans along the canals and diverse flora and fauna in the woodlands and wetlands.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities near Ellerton. You can find various routes, including easy and moderate options, around the area. For example, popular routes include the 'Melbourne Arms – Top Lock loop from Thornton' (moderate, 17.59 km) or easier walks like the 'Hiking loop from Skipwith' (2.62 km). You can explore more hiking trails in the dedicated Hiking around Ellerton guide.
Ellerton offers several road cycling routes for various skill levels. You can find easy routes like 'The Natterjack – Caffè Valeria loop from North Duffield' (25.64 km) or 'Howden Minster – Howden Minster Ruins loop from North Duffield' (27.58 km). More moderate options include the 'Storwood loop from Cottingwith' (46.19 km). Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Ellerton guide.
Many attractions around Ellerton are suitable for families. The historical Howden Minster Ruins and the scenic Pocklington Canal offer engaging historical and natural experiences. The RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common and the Ancient Oak Trees of South Moor Field, Skipwith Common provide interesting outdoor exploration opportunities for all ages.
Yes, you can visit the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common. This site features visible remnants of a former heavy bomber operational conversion unit from the Second World War, offering a glimpse into Britain's wartime history. The entire common is dotted with concrete and asphalt remains of taxiways and flight pans.
The waterways around Ellerton, including the River Derwent and the canals, offer excellent opportunities for exploration. You can walk or cycle along the towpaths of Pocklington Canal and Selby Canal. The Selby Canal is also popular with pleasure boaters, offering a different perspective of the landscape. The Weres (Duck Pond) in Ellerton village, historically used for washing horse hooves, is another charming water feature.
Yes, Ellerton village is home to The Boot & Shoe Inn, the oldest surviving building in the village. This welcoming 17th-century country inn features low-beamed ceilings, exposed brick, and an open fire, making it a cozy spot for a meal or a drink.
The best time to visit Ellerton for outdoor activities generally depends on your preference. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring the canals and natural features, with lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, scenic walks, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, gravel biking is an option in the area. A notable route is the 'Bubwith Old Station – Pocklington Canal Lock loop from Foggathorpe,' which is a moderate 37.74 km ride. You can find more details and other routes in the Gravel biking around Ellerton guide.


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