The historic port city of Hull has received a prestigious international accolade, securing a place on National Geographic's annual list of the top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026. This marks a significant moment for the East Yorkshire city, which stands as the sole UK location featured on a list that also includes global hubs like Manila and Beijing, as well as natural wonders like the North Dakota Badlands.
A £70m Maritime Transformation
This recognition comes as Hull nears the completion of an ambitious £70m regeneration project focused on its rich seafaring history. The initiative, a legacy of the city's successful tenure as the UK City of Culture in 2017, aims to firmly establish Hull on the international tourism map. After experiencing several delays, 2026 is set to be the year when the full vision comes to life, with a series of major openings planned.
The centrepiece of the Hull Maritime project is the newly restored Arctic Corsair, a deep-sea trawler often referred to as Hull's answer to the Cutty Sark. Built in 1960, the vessel played a key role in the Cod Wars with Iceland and once held world records for its catches. Having been closed to the public since 2018, the 57-metre trawler now gleams following meticulous restoration work by local firm Dunston Ship Repairs.
Dave Clark, technical director at Dunston, described the project as a labour of love for a team deeply connected to the city's fishing heritage. "People need to be on it, it needs to be seen," he said, emphasising the importance of visitors understanding the harsh conditions, where crews worked up to 16 hours a day.
Historic Vessels and a Revamped Museum
Joining the Arctic Corsair is the Spurn Lightship, which for five decades guided vessels through the perilous Humber estuary. Following its own makeover, it will reopen to the public. Furthermore, the city's much-loved Maritime Museum, housed in grand former dock offices, is preparing to reopen after a five-year closure.
Robin Diaper, a curator at the museum, stated their ambition was to create a "world-class" attraction on par with institutions in major global cities, while ensuring it remained accessible to local residents. The museum will once again display its eclectic collection, which includes the popular stuffed polar bear, Erik, on loan from Dundee.
Overcoming a Historic Reputation
The inclusion of Hull in such a prestigious list has raised some eyebrows, given the city's long-standing battle with its image—a struggle dating back to a 17th-century poem that lumped it together with "Hell" and Halifax. However, Mike Ross, the Liberal Democrat leader of Hull City Council, expressed no surprise.
"There was a sense of surprise for some," Ross admitted. "But why shouldn't Hull be one of the top 25 places? It has got so much going for it." He identified the key challenge as shifting perceptions, so that people expect to have a great time in Hull, rather than being surprised by it.
The wider transformation includes a £21m refurbishment of Queen's Gardens, a public space created from a former dock. Combined with existing attractions like The Deep aquarium, the Ferens Art Gallery, and Wilberforce House Museum, tourism officials believe Hull is assembling a compelling, world-class offer for visitors. For a city built on maritime endeavour, this new chapter as a must-visit destination represents a historic voyage into the future.
