‘Explore our incredible maritime history’: Guided tours return
STORIES OF THE SEA: Tour guides at a walk last year
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Hull’s maritime guided tours will begin again on Saturday, February 14.
A dedicated team of 17 White Badge-accredited volunteers will once again lead free guided walks, offering residents and visitors the chance to explore the city’s rich and fascinating maritime heritage.
Four guided tours will run throughout the season on Thursdays and Saturdays at 10.30am, initially with additional Sunday tours at 11.30am and 1.30pm.
They start in the Museum Quarter gardens outside the Hull and East Riding Museum.
The full tour, last about two-and-a-half hours, will cover landmarks including:
The future home of the Arctic Corsair at North End Shipyard
Queen’s Gardens
The exterior of the Maritime Museum
The exterior of Spurn Lightship at Hull Marina
Blaydes House, Trinity House, and Hull Marina.
A shorter Sunday route begins at 1.30pm tour and lasts 90 minues.
The tours were Highly Commended at the Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTA) in the ‘Remarkable Experience of the Year’ category, reflecting the growing popularity of this unique city experience.
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “2026 is a landmark year for the city as our maritime treasures come to life and open to the public.
“With four walks taking place over three days each week, Hull's maritime tours offer a fantastic opportunity for both locals and visitors to explore our city’s incredible maritime history and why Hull was named one of the top 25 places to visit in the world.
“Whether you’re new to Hull or a long-time resident, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to see our historic waterfront.”
John Tindall, a White Badge tour guide, said: “2026 promises to be a superb year for Hull. With the Maritime Museum and Spurn Lightship opening and the Arctic Corsair arriving, to name just a few.
“I'm looking forward to you joining me to hear their stories, as well as the rest of Hull's history on a maritime tour. It's no wonder the National Geographic sang our praises.”
Helen Featherstone, director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “The maritime guided tours have been an incredibly popular fixture in Hull and it is fantastic news that they are returning for 2026, a year that will see many of Hull Maritime’s attractions open to the public.
“We’re thrilled that thanks to National Lottery players we’ve been able to support these engaging tours that share the rich maritime heritage of the city.”
Booking is recommended but a limited number of walk-up places will be available on the day. You can book or find out more here.