Hull has officially been named one of National Geographic’s top destinations to visit in 2026 — and once you arrive, you’ll understand why. The city is in the midst of an exciting cultural revival, proudly showcasing more than 800 years of maritime heritage with a fresh new energy.
2026 marks the reopening of the beautifully refurbished Maritime Museum, where thousands of fascinating artefacts will be brought to life through immersive galleries. And just along the waterfront, the beloved Spurn Lightship will also reopen in Spring 2026, offering visitors a close-up look at one of Hull’s most iconic vessels.
Wander into Hull’s Old Town, and you’ll feel transported. Look up at the majestic Minster, admire the nostalgic cobbled streets, and lose yourself among centuries‑old lanes and traditional pubs. In the Museum Quarter, you can stroll through a recreated early 20th‑century street, step inside the birthplace of William Wilberforce, or come face‑to‑face with a giant woolly mammoth — all in one afternoon.
The magnificent Hull Minster towers over Trinity Square and has evolved into one of the city’s cultural beating hearts. Alongside regular worship, it hosts talks, installations, performances, festivals, exhibitions, real ale fairs and record fairs — offering endless reasons to step inside.
A short walk away, Ferens Art Gallery stands proudly in Queen Victoria Square. As the city’s oldest gallery, it houses one of the North’s most impressive and accessible art collections, spanning works from the 14th century to today. Alongside pieces by Lorenzetti, Frans Hals, Canaletto, Helen Chadwick and Gillian Wearing, you’ll also find an interactive children’s gallery — and a charming Moomins exhibition will arrive in 2026 that will delights visitors of all ages.
Beyond its history, Hull is a city buzzing with creativity and independent spirit. The revitalised Fruit Market has become one of the region’s most exciting places to eat, drink and explore. By morning, grab a coffee at Thieving Harry’s and watch boats drift by; by lunchtime, enjoy pizza and gelato at Bert’s or classic fish and chips at Humber Fish Co. As evening falls, choose between tapas at Ambiente or refined Indian dining at Tapasya@Marina. The area is also home to Humber Street Gallery, a contemporary art venue offering a free programme of exhibitions and talks — and the permanent home of Dead Bod, the legendary piece of Hull graffiti saved from demolition.
Hull’s cultural calendar is just as vibrant. Plan your visit around the city’s flagship events — Freedom Festival, Humber Street Sesh, Hull Pride or the historic Hull Fair — or dive into the programme at Hull Truck Theatre, City Hall or New Theatre. Music lovers will find plenty to celebrate too, from long‑standing
independent venues like The Welly, Polar Bear and the New Adelphi Club to major touring artists performing at Connexin Live.
If you’re staying the night, Hull offers a range of places to rest your head — from rooms overlooking the marina to stylish city‑centre hotels and friendly hostels. And with Hull’s compact city centre, everything you want to see is just a short stroll away.
Whether you’re wandering the cobbles of the Old Town, relaxing by the waterfront, or discovering the city’s free museums and galleries, Hull’s unique blend of character, culture and charm makes for a visit that stays with you. Its story is one of reinvention — and 2026 is the perfect moment to be part of it.
