Things To Do
in Kingston upon Hull
Kingston upon Hull is a historic port city on the River Hull in East Yorkshire, known for its maritime heritage, modern waterfront, and vibrant cultural scene. It blends traditional pubs and markets with innovative galleries and family-friendly attractions. The city hosts a lively calendar of events, from markets and street art to theatre and live music.
Its compact center and riverside views make it easy to explore on foot, with plenty of opportunities to try local eats and onboard museum experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Hull's historic Old Town, admiring the stunning architecture of the 19th-century buildings. Visit the Hull Maritime Museum to learn about the city's rich maritime history and its connection to the whaling industry. As you wander the cobbled streets, stop by the iconic Holy Trinity Church, one of the largest parish churches in England.
After lunch at a local café, head to the Ferens Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of fine art ranging from the Renaissance to modern works. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the revitalized Humber waterfront, taking in views of the iconic Humber Bridge and the bustling marina. Consider stopping at the Streetlife Museum, where you can explore vintage vehicles and memorabilia that transport you back in time.
As the sun sets, dine at one of Hull's vibrant restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines to suit every palate. After your meal, enjoy a show at the Hull New Theatre, where you can catch everything from musicals to drama performances. End your evening with a drink at a local pub, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps chatting with some locals.
Begin your day at the Wilberforce House, where you'll learn about the abolition of slavery and the life of William Wilberforce, a key figure in this movement. The exhibits are both educational and inspiring, providing a deep dive into Hull's role in social justice. Afterward, stroll along the nearby Marina, enjoying the fresh air and lovely views.
Continue your cultural journey at the Streetlife Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits showcasing the history of transport in the city. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café, which offers a selection of local delicacies. Post-lunch, visit the Hull History Centre, where you can explore archives and exhibits detailing the city's fascinating past.
In the evening, explore the Ferens Art Gallery's latest exhibitions, which often highlight contemporary artists and local talents. Afterward, indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant that features local seafood, a specialty in Hull. Conclude your evening with a walk along the waterfront, taking in the serene atmosphere as the city lights reflect on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $40-90 |
| 🍺Beer in a pub | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant riverside location with rich maritime heritage
- Strong cultural scene including The Deep and Ferens Gallery
- Good value for money with accessible transport and accommodations
- Walkable Old Town with independent shops and pubs
- Can be windy and rainy due to estuary climate
- Some areas outside city center require transit; parking can be challenging in peak times
Places to Visit in Kingston upon Hull
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic modern aquarium against a calm river backdrop; best with sunset reflections or night lighting.
Historic guildhalls, medieval lanes, and Georgian façades provide classic architectural photography opportunities.
Vibrant walls and urban art scenes, with galleries and studios nearby for colorful, contemporary shots.
Elegant civic spaces with greenery and sculptures, ideal for combining architecture and sculpture photography.
Food in Kingston upon Hull
Kingston upon Hull Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic takeaway-style battered fish with chunky chips, salt, vinegar, and mushy peas from harbourfront spots.
Must-Try!
A traditional Yorkshire gingerbread cake, often enjoyed with tea or as a dessert after a hearty meal.
A robust savory pie from local bakers, best enjoyed with gravy and mushy peas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic indoor market offering fresh produce, bakery goods, and quick street-food options.
A lively area near the marina with street-food stalls, small plates, and independent drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely in shops and on buses; a friendly 'hello' and 'please' goes a long way in pubs and cafés.
Be respectful in pubs and sports chats; small talk about weather or football is common and friendly.
Safety
Tipping in Kingston upon Hull
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15% in restaurants is common if service is not included.
Card payments, contactless, and mobile wallets are widely accepted; cash remains useful in markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and flowering parks; great for riverside walks and outdoor photography.
Long daylight hours and festival vibes; ideal for waterfront dining, markets, and outdoor events.
Cooler days with autumn colors along parks and the estuary; good for moody riverfront photography.
Often windy and chilly near the estuary; indoor attractions like The Deep and galleries are appealing.
Kingston upon Hull at Night
Hiking in Kingston upon Hull
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Remote coastal spit at the mouth of the Humber; long flat trails, birdwatching, and beaches—great for day trips and photography.
Expansive green space ideal for long walks and countryside scenery just a short drive from Hull.
Airports
How to reach Kingston upon Hull by plane.
Located near Barrow-upon-Humber; about 25-40 minutes from Hull by car; serves domestic flights and some European routes.
Major regional airport about 1.5-2 hours by train or car from Hull; offers numerous international and domestic flights.
Large international hub roughly 3-4 hours by rail or road from Hull; extensive global flight network.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Universities and growing industries attract a youthful, diverse population seeking affordable dining and nightlife.
Parks, museums, and waterfront attractions provide many family-friendly options.
A mix of locals who value Hull’s heritage, markets, and community-focused events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Premier League/Championship club with home matches at the KCOM Stadium; matchdays bring local energy and pubs around the ground.
Historically strong team with matches at the KC Stadium; rugby league is a popular sport and social event in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kingston upon Hull.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafés offer veggie mains, salads, veggie pies, and properly labeled options; ask staff about specifics or substitutions.