Talk about a turnaround! Northern cities often get a bit of a ribbing (usually from our southern neighbours) for being, well, a bit grim.
And Hull (unfairly in our opinion) has borne the brunt of this criticism for years. It was even infamously crowned Britain’s first-ever ‘Crap Town’ some 20 years ago.
But things are changing in Hull, especially since its triumphant year as the UK City of Culture in 2017. Now, one postcode in the city has been named one of the coolest places to live in the UK.
According to a new list by The Sunday Times, Hull is a haven for “real northern hipsters” and boasts a thriving culture, food, and art scene.
“Forget its grim rep post-Second World War bombing, Hull has now entered its glow-up era,” the list reads. “The former fruit and veg markets and warehouses lining the city’s old marina are chock-a-block with independents, while its hipsterish dining scene is thronging with exciting offerings.”
This accolade comes just as a delegation of Hull’s cultural leaders headed to London to showcase the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The event aimed to give those in the capital a sneak peek of Hull’s new Culture and Heritage Strategy, ahead of its Cultural Tides conference next month.
Councillor Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “We know our city can be a global leader, recognised as a forward-thinking destination and place to make and experience quality cultural work. The city has already shown what Hull can do during our time as UK City of Culture 2017, and we want to build on what was achieved during that time.”
The postcode singled out by The Sunday Times, HU1, is right in the heart of the city centre, encompassing the historic Old Town and Albert Dock. The area is home to The Deep, an award-winning aquarium and Hull’s biggest tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its vast array of marine life, walk through an underwater tunnel, or relax in its café.
For history buffs, the Streetlife Museum of Transport offers an impressive collection of vintage vehicles spanning 200 years. Located in the Old Town, the area is also known for its cobbled streets and stunning Stuart and Georgian architecture.
Art lovers can soak up culture at the Ferens Art Gallery and The Humber Street Gallery. Meanwhile, traditional pubs like Ye Olde White Harte, built in 1550, offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The pub’s famous Plotting Parlour is said to be where royalists met during the English Civil War.
Foodies won’t be disappointed either. The Paragon Arcade, recently dubbed the “coolest” place for food in HU1 on TikTok, is a must-visit. From Asian street food at Salt and Pepper Club to brunch at Milchig, there’s something for everyone.
For those looking to explore beyond HU1, The Sunday Times recommends a visit to the New Adelphi, an independent grassroots venue on the edge of town in HU5. This iconic spot has hosted legends like Oasis, Radiohead, and Fatboy Slim, and it’s where Hull’s own The Housemartins signed their first record deal in its tiny gig room.
Hull is also home to the University of Hull, which has a rich literary history. It’s where Philip Larkin, one of the UK’s most renowned poets, worked as a librarian for 30 years.
