Whinhill Lock facts for kids
Whinhill Lock is a special kind of water gate on the Driffield Navigation canal in East Riding of Yorkshire, England. It was first opened way back in 1770. After many years, it was fixed up and reopened in 2004.
Where is Whinhill Lock Located?
Whinhill Lock is found between the small village of Wansford and the town of Driffield. You can easily get to it from the B1249 road.
It sits right on the Driffield Navigation waterway.
- The next lock going upstream (further along the canal) is Town Lock.
- The next lock going downstream (closer to the sea) is Wansford Lock.
The History of Whinhill Lock
Whinhill Lock was built between 1767 and 1770. It was part of the big project to create the Driffield Navigation canal. This lock is considered a very important old building, known as a Grade II listed structure.
Around 1945, boats stopped using the canal to go to Driffield. Because of this, the lock slowly started to break down and fall apart.
In 1968, a group called the Driffield Navigation Amenities Association began working. They wanted to fix and look after the canal and all its structures, including the locks. Over the years, many "working parties" (groups of volunteers) helped to keep the lock in good shape.
Then, in 2004, they received a special grant from the lottery. This money helped them fully restore the lock and put in new gates. The lock was officially reopened by Mrs Margaret Killin, who was the Mayor of Driffield at the time. This exciting event happened on June 25, 2005.
