Many tourists comment on the quality and quantity of statues and sculptures that can be discovered, especially in the historic Old Town.
Hull has always been a hotbed of artistic talent including the Earles and Keyworths in the Victorian era and has also encouraged sculptors from outside the city such as StefanGec (Leeds) and Steinunn Thorarinsdottir (Iceland).
What is striking is the variety of statues each telling a different aspect of Hull’s history. There are the traditional statues depicting Wilberforce, Marvell and de la Pole and more recent ones such as Truelove and Voyage highlighting Hull’s maritime traditions.
Neil Hadlock’s statue of a transmigrant family informs us of the port’s significant international role as a gateway to a new life for those fleeing poverty and persecution in Europe at the turn of the 19th century.
The city has also seen the rise of strong, independent women none more famous than Amy Johnson,who in 1930 was the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia. Quite rightly she has a statue outside the Prospect Centre which describes her pioneering exploits.
So follow the trail and take the time to look up, down and around and experience our fine city’s unique blend of art, architecture and inspiring stories.
Venue Details
HULL OLD TOWN,
Hull
Do you know your Georgian from your Edwardian? In Hull’s Old Town, there is evidence of many period throughout history. With many original features it is clear that Hull has a significant place within British history. Hull’s Old Town is a hidden treasure where you will discover Hull’s collection of free museums including Streetlife Museum of Transport, where all the family can climb aboard a tram or take a carriage ride into the past, and Hull and East Riding Museum of Archaeology where you’ll find a life-size woolly mammoth. It is also home to Hepworth Arcade where Mr Marks and Mr Spencer had one of their first penny bazaars! There is also a strong link between Hull Old Town and the English Civil War with the alleged plotting parlour at Ye Olde White Harte and the actual spot at which Charles I was refused entry to the city of Hull – Beverley Gate, as well as the world’s smallest window the George Hotel.
