Hull: The Complete Guide

Sunset At Hull Marina

Visiting Hull offers a vibrant experience in the heart of the East Riding of Yorkshire. The city combines a rich maritime heritage with a modern cultural scene, making it a fascinating destination for visitors. Hull’s waterfront area is particularly lively, featuring attractive promenades, restaurants, and venues like the iconic Hull Maritime Museum, providing a great starting point to explore the city’s connection to the sea.

Hull’s city centre boasts a mix of shopping streets, independent boutiques, and traditional markets, perfect for those who enjoy a blend of contemporary retail and local flavour. The Old Town area is full of character with its cobbled streets, historic pubs, and theatres, offering plenty of opportunities to soak up the local atmosphere. Food lovers will appreciate the variety of eateries serving fresh seafood and local specialties, reflecting the city’s coastal location.

Beyond the urban centre, Hull is surrounded by beautiful East Yorkshire countryside and coastal spots. Visitors can easily take day trips to nearby sandy beaches or picturesque villages, making Hull a great base for both cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. The city’s friendly vibe and diverse attractions ensure a rewarding visit for travellers of all interests.

History of Hull

Early History of Hull

Hull’s origins date back to the late 12th century when it was founded as a small fishing and trading settlement. The city’s strategic position on the Humber Estuary helped it grow quickly into an important port. By the 14th century, Hull had established itself as a key centre for trade, especially in wool and other goods, gaining a charter that allowed it self-governance and boosting its economic development.

Hull during the Industrial Revolution

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Hull expanded significantly as the Industrial Revolution transformed the city into a major maritime and industrial hub. Shipbuilding and fishing industries thrived, and the port grew to become one of the busiest in the country. This period also saw urban development, with new docks, railways, and factories shaping Hull’s character. The city played a vital role in trade and transportation during this time.

20th Century and Modern Hull

Hull suffered heavy damage during World War II due to extensive bombing, which led to widespread rebuilding in the post-war years. The city gradually diversified its economy beyond shipping and fishing, embracing manufacturing and service industries. More recently, Hull gained recognition for cultural regeneration, highlighted by its designation as the UK City of Culture in 2017. This has helped revitalize the city’s image and attracted visitors to its rich heritage and vibrant arts scene.

Visiting Hull for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Hull on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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Best things to do and See in Hull

1. Hull – The Deep

The Deep is one of Hull’s most famous attractions, an award-winning aquarium located on the city’s waterfront. Visitors can explore marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish, all housed within striking architecture. The interactive exhibits and underwater tunnels make it a great experience for families and marine enthusiasts alike. Entry costs around £17 for adults and £12 for children, with the venue open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.

2. Hull – Hull Maritime Museum

Situated in the Old Town, Hull Maritime Museum delves into the city’s rich seafaring history. Exhibits feature ship models, maritime art, and displays on fishing, shipping, and Hull’s role in world trade. The museum offers insight into Hull’s identity as a port city and its cultural heritage. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, with free entry, making it an accessible cultural stop.

3. Hull – Streetlife Museum of Transport

Close to the Maritime Museum, the Streetlife Museum showcases historic vehicles, including vintage cars, bicycles, and horse-drawn carriages. The museum offers a nostalgic journey through transport history, ideal for visitors interested in how travel evolved in the region. It operates Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, and admission is free.

The Ferens Art Gallery is a major cultural venue in Hull city centre, featuring a broad collection of fine art, including works by Old Masters and contemporary artists. It frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and community events. The gallery provides a quiet space for art lovers to explore and is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, with free admission.

5. Hull – Humber Bridge Country Park

Just a few miles from the city, Humber Bridge Country Park offers stunning views of the iconic Humber Bridge, one of the longest single-span suspension bridges in the world. The park features walking trails, picnic spots, and a visitor centre with information on the bridge’s construction. It’s a peaceful spot for nature walks and photography.

6. Hull – East Park

East Park is a large public park in Hull, popular with families and locals alike. It offers playgrounds, a boating lake, flower gardens, and sports facilities. Seasonal events, such as fairs and outdoor concerts, are held here throughout the year. The park is open daily, free to enter, and is an ideal place for relaxation and recreation close to the city.

Located in the Fruit Market area, Humber Street Gallery is a contemporary art space showcasing local and international artists. The gallery is known for its innovative exhibitions and dynamic programmes that engage with urban culture. It’s a hub for creative events, workshops, and performances, open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm, with free entry.

8. Hull – Wilberforce House

Wilberforce House is the birthplace of William Wilberforce, the famous abolitionist. The museum focuses on his life and the campaign to end the slave trade. Exhibits include personal artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that explore this important historical movement. It is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, with free admission.

9. Hull – The Old Town

Hull’s Old Town is a charming area filled with historic buildings, cobbled streets, and traditional pubs. Visitors can enjoy walking tours that explore the city’s medieval past and architectural heritage. The area also hosts markets and festivals throughout the year, providing a lively atmosphere and opportunities to experience local culture.

10. Hull – Hull Truck Theatre

Hull Truck Theatre is a leading theatre venue offering a diverse programme of drama, comedy, and live performance. The theatre supports new writing and local talent alongside touring productions. It’s a cultural highlight in the city, with shows running regularly and ticket prices varying depending on the performance. The venue is located in the city centre and provides a vibrant night out for visitors.

Best Day Trips from Hull

A day trip from Hull offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Hull provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

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Lincoln Market Square And Cathedral
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Sheffield

Sheffield Town Hall
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Tim Green
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Bakewell

All Saints Church Bakewell
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Buxton

Buxton The Crescent Seen Through Gardens
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Derby

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Guildhall, Cathedral Square, Peterborough
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Where to Stay in Hull

The city centre of Hull is a popular area to stay for visitors wanting easy access to major attractions like The Deep and Hull Maritime Museum. Here, you’ll find a range of hotels catering to different budgets, from comfortable chains to boutique options. Many of these accommodations provide convenient access to shopping, dining, and nightlife. For example, Holiday Inn Hull Marina offers modern rooms close to the marina and city centre.

Around the Old Town, which is known for its historic charm and cobbled streets, there are several cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels. This area appeals to those looking for a more atmospheric stay near Hull’s cultural heart. The Duke of York is a charming option right in the Old Town, blending traditional character with modern comfort.

For those preferring to stay near transport links or seeking quieter surroundings, the vicinity around Hull Paragon Interchange is ideal. This area is well connected for exploring beyond the city by train and has a selection of practical hotels suitable for business and leisure travellers. The Dorchester Hotel is located close to the interchange and offers straightforward accommodation with good amenities.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Hull. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Hull Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Hull

Hull in Spring

Spring in Hull brings mild temperatures, generally ranging from 8°C to 15°C, making it a pleasant time to explore the city’s parks and waterfront areas. This season sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit to attractions like the Old Town and museums. The Hull Marathon, held in spring, draws participants and spectators who add lively energy to the city streets.

Hull in Summer (Best)

Summer is the best time to visit Hull, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 22°C, offering warm and generally dry weather. This season is perfect for enjoying the vibrant Hull Maritime Festival and the Freedom Festival, which celebrate the city’s cultural heritage with music, performances, and events across public spaces. The long daylight hours also make it ideal for sightseeing and coastal trips nearby.

Hull in Autumn

Autumn in Hull features cooling temperatures from 10°C to 16°C and crisp, fresh air, ideal for scenic walks along the Humber Estuary and exploring the city’s historic quarters. The Hull Jazz Festival takes place in autumn, attracting music lovers to a range of concerts and events that showcase both local and international talent. This season offers a quieter atmosphere before winter sets in.

Hull in Winter

Winter months in Hull are colder, with temperatures often between 2°C and 7°C, and occasional frost or rain. While the weather may be chillier, the festive season brings a charming atmosphere with Christmas markets and lights throughout the city centre. Indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and theatres provide warm and engaging options for visitors during this time.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 6°C
  • February 8°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 13°C
  • May 14°C
  • June 17°C
  • July 20°C
  • August 20°C
  • September 18°C
  • October 14°C
  • November 9°C
  • December 9°C

How to get to Hull

Getting to Hull by air

Nearest airports:

The closest major airport to Hull is Humberside Airport, located about 25 miles west of the city centre. It offers a selection of domestic and limited international flights. For a wider range of international connections, Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester Airport are accessible options, each roughly 90 miles away and well connected by road and rail.

Getting to Hull by train

Hull is well served by rail with regular services connecting it to major cities like London, York, and Leeds. The main station, Hull Paragon Interchange, offers frequent direct trains to London King’s Cross operated by LNER and services to other parts of the UK provided by Northern Rail. For train times and bookings, visit National Rail or LNER.

Getting to Hull by Car

Hull is accessible via the M62 and A63 roadways, which link the city to the motorway network. Driving to Hull offers flexibility to explore the surrounding East Riding countryside and coastal towns at your own pace. Parking is available in various city centre car parks and on-street locations.

Travelling around Hull

Getting around Hull is straightforward thanks to its compact city centre and reliable public transport. Local buses operated by East Yorkshire and Stagecoach provide frequent routes throughout the city and to nearby towns. Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore central Hull, especially around the historic Old Town and waterfront areas.

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