Goole
Local Info
Goole is a port town located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England, at the confluence of the Rivers Ouse and Don. Known as the UK's furthest inland port, it's situated about 50 miles from the North Sea and is a key player in England's maritime commerce. History and Development: Dutch Influence: The town's origins are closely tied to the work of Dutch engineer Cornelius Vermuyden in the 17th century, who diverted the River Don to improve drainage. A Port is Born: The town as we know it today was established in the 1820s by the Aire and Calder Navigation Company, which built a canal from Leeds to Goole to facilitate the export of coal from the Yorkshire coalfields. Industrial Heritage: For over 150 years, the port was a major hub for coal, utilizing a unique system of compartment boats called "Tom Puddings." One of the original hydraulic boat hoists, used to tip coal into ships, is now a Grade 2* listed building. Active Port: The Port of Goole remains a busy, working port, handling a wide variety of cargo, including timber, steel, and wind turbines. It has regular cargo services to various European and North African countries. Landmarks: The town's most prominent landmarks are its twin water towers, affectionately nicknamed the "salt and pepper pots," and the clock tower, built to commemorate the town's centenary in 1926. Culture and Nature: Goole has a modest town center with shops and pubs, as well as a theatre and cinema called "Junction." It also offers access to several nature reserves and wetlands, such as Blacktoft Sands, which are popular for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
