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!

The historic Spurn Lightship is one of Hull's most distinctive maritime attractions, offering visitors the chance to step aboard a remarkable vessel that once guided ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Humber Estuary. Carefully restored as part of the Hull Maritime project, the lightship tells the story of the crews who lived and worked at sea, helping to protect one of the UK's busiest waterways. Through engaging displays and authentic spaces, visitors can discover the vital role the vessel played in Hull's maritime history. Whether you're fascinated by maritime heritage, local history or life at sea, the Spurn Lightship offers a unique and memorable experience in the heart of Hull's historic docklands. Click on the links below to see more about each part of this amazing project!

Spurn Lightship

Explore this unique floating maritime attraction and learn about life guiding ships safely into the Humber.

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. The Gardens reopened in June 2026 for everyone to enjoy.