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Hull: UK's Secret Weapon for Global Tourism in 2026
1 Jan
Summary
- Hull is the UK's sole inclusion in National Geographic's top 25 global destinations for 2026.
- A £70m maritime project revives historic trawler Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship.
- The city's Maritime Museum reopens after a five-year closure, featuring a polar bear.
- Hull's Maritime Museum, featuring a polar bear, reopens after five years.

Hull is gearing up for a significant tourism boost, having been recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 25 global destinations for 2026. This accolade highlights the city's extensive £70m maritime transformation, aiming to establish it as an international tourist hotspot. Hull is the only UK location featured on this prestigious list.
The ambitious Hull Maritime project is nearing completion, with key attractions set to open in 2026. These include the meticulously restored Arctic Corsair, a record-breaking trawler, and the Spurn Lightship, which guided vessels for fifty years. Public spaces, including Queen's Gardens, have also undergone substantial refurbishment.
The Maritime Museum, closed for five years, will also reopen, offering visitors insights into Hull's seafaring past and featuring unique exhibits like a stuffed polar bear named Erik. This comprehensive revitalization aims to elevate Hull to world-class visitor standards, ensuring a compelling experience for both locals and international tourists.




