A must-visit attraction is making its long-awaited return to Hull this August, inviting visitors to discover extraordinary treasures, fascinating stories and one of the UK's most important maritime collections.

Hull Maritime Museum reopens on Saturday 8 August 2026 following a major transformation, unveiling immersive new galleries and hundreds of objects never before seen by the public.

Set within the stunning former Dock Offices in Queen Victoria Square, the museum offers visitors the chance to explore Hull's unique relationship with the sea and uncover the stories that helped shape the city over the last 800 years.

Whether you're planning a family day out, a cultural city break or simply looking to discover something new, the transformed museum promises an unforgettable experience.

Extraordinary treasures on display

Among the highlights visitors can expect to see are rare scrimshaw artworks created by whalers from whale bone and teeth, Arctic expedition artefacts, and historic objects that reveal the lives of those who lived and worked at sea.

A brand-new scrimshaw gallery will showcase what is believed to be the largest collection of its kind outside the United States, featuring beautifully detailed engravings and artworks that tell stories of life aboard whaling ships.

Visitors can also encounter:

  • The skeleton of a North Atlantic right whale
  • Objects connected to Sir Ernest Shackleton's famous Endurance expedition
  • A historic wooden canoe discovered beneath Hull city centre
  • The wooden dog figurehead from Sirius, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic under steam power

A new way to explore Hull's maritime story

The transformed museum has doubled its public space, creating more opportunities to get closer to the collection than ever before.

Around 1,300 objects will be on display across interactive galleries and open storage spaces, bringing Hull's maritime heritage to life through personal stories, global connections and remarkable historic artefacts.

The museum will also feature a dedicated community exhibition space, offering visitors fresh displays and new perspectives on the region's rich maritime heritage throughout the year.

A perfect addition to your Hull itinerary

Located in the heart of the city centre, Hull Maritime Museum sits alongside many of Hull's most popular attractions, making it easy to build a full day or weekend exploring the city.

From award-winning museums and galleries to independent shopping, vibrant dining and waterside experiences, Hull continues to offer visitors an exciting mix of culture, history and discovery.

This summer, the reopening of Hull Maritime Museum adds another compelling reason to visit.

Plan your visit

Hull Maritime Museum reopens on Saturday 8 August 2026.

Be among the first to experience this exciting new attraction and discover the stories, people and treasures that helped make Hull one of Britain's great maritime cities.