Things to do in Hull

Discover Great Days Out in Hull

If Hull isn’t already on your family days out list, it probably should be. Often overlooked in favour of York or Leeds, Hull quietly packs in award-winning attractions, fascinating maritime history, one of the UK’s best aquariums and plenty of green spaces to explore. Add in a thriving food scene, a picturesque marina and easy access to East Yorkshire’s spectacular coastline, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a brilliant day out or weekend break.

Looking for the best things to do in Hull? From getting up close with sharks at The Deep and exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town to following the quirky Fish Trail, discovering fascinating museums and heading out to the Yorkshire coast, Hull is packed with family-friendly attractions that are guaranteed to keep everyone entertained.

Hull of a Good Time…

We know…you saw that heading coming! But Hull really does have plenty going for it. Once named the UK’s City of Culture, this historic port has reinvented itself while keeping hold of its maritime heritage. It’s a city full of surprises, where world-class attractions sit alongside historic streets, colourful street art and one of the country’s most impressive waterfronts.

Things to Do in Hull

There’s no better place to start than The Deep, one of the UK’s most spectacular aquariums. Home to thousands of sea creatures including sharks, rays, turtles and penguins, it’s a fantastic family attraction where you can journey through the world’s oceans without leaving East Yorkshire.

History lovers should make time for Hull’s Museums Quarter, where you’ll find the excellent Streetlife Museum, complete with vintage trams, bicycles and old-fashioned vehicles that children love exploring. Nearby, Wilberforce House Museum tells the story of Hull-born William Wilberforce and his campaign to abolish the slave trade.

Take a wander through Hull Old Town, where cobbled streets, hidden alleyways and historic pubs create one of the city’s most charming areas. Keep your eyes on the ground as you follow the famous Seven Seas Fish Trail, spotting the bronze fish sculptures hidden throughout the streets, and don’t forget to look up for Hull’s unique cream-coloured telephone boxes a quirky reminder of the city’s independent spirit and one of its most photographed landmarks.

The city’s beautiful Marina is another favourite, with waterside cafés, restaurants and plenty of boats to admire while enjoying a relaxed afternoon.

Looking for Adventure?

If your family prefers getting active, Hull has plenty to offer.

Spend a few hours exploring East Park, one of Yorkshire’s largest parks, where you’ll find playgrounds, a boating lake, splash areas, animal enclosures and plenty of space for picnics and games.

Just outside the city, Humber Bridge Country Park offers woodland walks, wildlife spotting, orienteering trails and fantastic views beneath one of the world’s longest single-span suspension bridges. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs after exploring the city centre.

For something completely different, climb aboard the historic Arctic Corsair, Hull’s last surviving sidewinder trawler, where you can discover what life was really like for deep-sea fishermen working in the often dangerous waters of the North Atlantic.

Need to Stretch Your Legs?

Hull has far more green space than many visitors expect.

A stroll along the Humber waterfront offers fantastic views across the estuary, while Pearson Park, East Park and the riverside paths provide peaceful spots away from the city centre.

If you’re looking for even more nature, the nearby Spurn National Nature Reserve is well worth the drive. Its unique spit of land stretching into the Humber Estuary is one of England’s best places for wildlife watching, walking and photography.

Beyond the City

Hull also makes an excellent base for exploring East Yorkshire.

The rolling countryside of the Yorkshire Wolds inspired J.R.R. Tolkien and offers peaceful villages, scenic walking routes and charming market towns.

Families can spend the day building sandcastles on the beaches at Bridlington, Hornsea or Withernsea, while wildlife lovers shouldn’t miss Bempton Cliffs, where thousands of seabirds, including puffins during the breeding season, gather on the dramatic chalk cliffs.

Time to Refuel

Hull’s food scene has grown enormously in recent years, with everything from independent cafés and waterside restaurants to excellent seafood and international cuisine.

While you’re here, don’t miss some of Hull’s unique local favourites. If you order chips, you’ll almost certainly be asked if you’d like chip spice—a tangy orange seasoning that’s become something of a local obsession. For something even more traditional, try a pattie butty, a deep-fried potato patty seasoned with sage and herbs that’s been keeping Hull locals happy for generations.

If you’re after something quick, Trinity Market has become one of Hull’s top foodie destinations, serving everything from gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to street food from around the world.

Know Somewhere We Should Feature?

At Great Days Out, we’re always looking to help families discover even more amazing places to visit across the UK. If you know a hidden gem, a fantastic family attraction or an experience you think should be featured, we’d love to hear about it.

Send an email to: info@great-days-out.co.uk and include:

• Name of attraction
• Website URL
• Type of experience

Own or manage an attraction in Sheffield? Get in touch to find out how your business can be featured on Great Days Out and reach families searching for their next adventure.

Is Hull Worth Visiting?

Hull really reeled us in. Once you look beyond the old stereotypes, you’ll discover a city packed with fascinating history, award-winning attractions, fantastic museums and a waterfront that’s perfect for wandering. Throw in one of the UK’s best aquariums, easy access to East Yorkshire’s beautiful coastline and plenty to keep families entertained, and Hull proves it’s much more than just a gateway to the Humber—it might just surprise you in the best possible way.

More Days Out in East Yorkshire

If you are looking for more Days Out in East Yorkshire , there is something for everyone across the region.

Hull