A town behind walls
Hull was surrounded by defensive walls in the Middle Ages. This long edge of Queen's Gardens is where Hull’s...
Queens Gardens is key green space in Hull city centre and has received major improvements.
Queens Gardens, designed by Sir Fredrick Gibberd, has become a popular area recognised for its long vista, but many visitors do not realise that they are walking in what was once the largest dock in UK.
The gardens, as well as being a much-loved open space, is a key element in the maritime history of Hull, connecting Hull Maritime Museum and the North End Shipyard - the new home of the Arctic Corsair.
The investment has
- Replaced the existing failing boundary walls
- Improved accessibility with a series of ramps and steps
- Frame key views and vistas
- New planting to reflect the change in seasons including a mix of species to improve biodiversity and habitats
- Contribute to better surface water management using sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)
- Enabled us to tell the story of the garden’s history, especially as a former shipping dock
- Defined the key routes and boundaries
- Offer shade and shelter for people using the space
- Provided a range of high quality street furniture
- Facilitatedsustainable tree management
- Facilitated improved and larger events
- New art installations inspired by its maritime past
Extensive work to improve the gardens began on 1 June 2023 and was completed in spring 2026.
