Welcome to Hull Maritime

Welcome to Yorkshire’s maritime city. Hull has more than 800 years of seafaring history which tells the story of the city’s involvement in some of UK’s most notable historical episodes.

Hull has a rich maritime history of trade, through Hanseatic links, fishing and imports. This project is bringing this history to life with new and refurbished visitor attractions and archives. Hull is poised to become a part of the nation’s tourism and heritage landscape.

The Hull Maritime project is delivering the refurbishment and preservation of four historic maritime sites and two historic ships. Once completed, you are invited to chart a course through Hull’s history, exploring the city’s connections and contributions to the UK and the world!

What is to come?

The opening of the Hull Maritime projects will take place in 2026 in a staged unveiling of these amazing experiences. The first project has already opened, book your tickets now to visit the Spurn Lightship! Shortly followed this will be the reopening of Queen’s Gardens, the historic dock turned tranquil city centre green oasis. Then later in 2026, the Hull Maritime Museum will reopen with new exhibits, old favourites and over 50% more artefacts than before, allowing us to put even more of Hull’s Maritime story on show. Following this the North End Shipyard, a new visitor centre and dry dock with the new home of the last sidewinding trawler, the Arctic Corsair will be berthed and visitors will be invited to explore, outside, inside and beneath this historic ship. Click on the links below to see more about each part of this amazing project!

Spurn Lightship

Explore Hull’s iconic lightship preserving stories of navigation and seafaring, newly refurbished and in her berth in Hull Marina, book tickets now to take a tour on board.

Spurn Lightship moored at Hull Marina on a sunny day with reflections in the water and surrounding waterfront architecture

Queen's Gardens

The gardens, as well as being a much-loved open space, is a key element in the maritime history of Hull, connecting Hull Maritime Museum and the North End Shipyard - the new home of the Arctic Corsair. Extensive work to improve the gardensis expected to be complete by spring 2026.

People sat in a circluar seating area next to one of Queens Gardens ponds. With Hull College overlooking the space.

Maritime Museum

Recognised as one of the most striking buildings in the city, Hull Maritime Museum in Queen Victoria Square will once again shine. Opening in 2026

Hull Maritime Museum exterior with ornate historic architecture and colourful flower displays on a sunny day

Find out more about all of Hull's Maritime Attractions