This hollow lying just off Oakington Brook (see map below) is thought to have once been a dock, the structure of which is still just visible. Limestone blocks, which were used in the restoration of St. Andrews Church in the 13th century, came all the way from Barnack, near Peterborough, by water. In the final part of the journey barges travelled along Oakington Brook to this dock where the blocks were unloaded onto horse wagons. Oakington Brook may have been more navigable at that time than it is today. There is also some evidence that there was a rise in the water table at some point around the early 1300s, leading to housing between Water Lane and Oakington Brook being abandoned and moved to higher ground to avoid flooding.

The tree currently growing in the old dock is a sycamore; these trees have about 16 insect species associated with them.

Sketch map with the location of the old dock in the centre. The dock is in a direct line from the brook to the church. Note that this map is approximate only and should not be relied upon for navigation.

If you have any information or photos of the old dock, please leave a comment below.

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