When the kids are happy, the adults are happy—right? Hull makes family days out wonderfully easy, offering a huge mix of activities that keep everyone smiling. Whether you're planning for a weekend, half-term adventure or a spontaneous day trip, Hull is bursting with ways to entertain families with children of all ages.
Top of the list has got to be Hull’s fabulous free museums and galleries, perfect for budget-friendly days out without compromising on excitement.
Take a trip to the Museums Quarter on the High Street where you can take a spin through the ages in the Streetlife Museum or marvel at the giant mammoth at the Hull and East Riding Museum. Not forgetting Ferens Art Gallery which, as well as having one of the finest regional art collections in the country, has an interactive children’s gallery and various kid-friendly trails and activities. You can also book FREE tours around museums and the Ferens Art Gallery.
Then, just a few steps away on the opposite side of the square is the Hull Maritime Museum, where families can delve into the city’s rich seafaring heritage. Reopening in 2026, you won’t want to miss this gem. Exhibits explore everything from historic fishing voyages to whaling history, and the new interactive exhibitions are sure to be a winner with the kids.
Also new for 2026 is Spurn Light Ship, Hull's floating museum. This lightvessel guided ships to safety for almost 50 years and now gives visitors the opportunity to experience life onboard. Tours are free but bookable.
If you have dinosaur lovers in the family, Dinostar is unmissable. This independent dinosaur museum features exciting skeletons, fossils and hands-on exhibits that will thrill your mini paleontologist.
Just over the footbridge from Dinostar is The Deep, one of Hull’s most iconic and beloved attractions. Home to over 3,500 animals—including sharks, enormous rays, Gentoo penguins and the UK’s only green sawfish—The Deep immerses families in incredible underwater worlds. Huge viewing windows, interactive displays and a spectacular glass lift make the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. Great-value annual passes make it even more appealing for repeat visits
As you wander through the city centre, make sure you keep your eyes peeled as embedded in the pavements are 41 sculpted fish, each one forming part of Hull’s Fish Trail—a family favourite for kids who enjoy a treasure hunt. This free trail takes you round the whole city centre as you hunt for the next fish.
