25th September 2026
The Icelandic Ambassador to the UK visited Hull and Grimsby on Friday 18 September to learn more about the region’s rich maritime heritage and the enduring connections between Iceland and the Humber.
Her Excellency Þórdís Kolbrún R. Gylfadóttir, Ambassador of Iceland, spent the day meeting civic representatives and heritage teams to gain a deeper understanding of the historic and contemporary ties that have connected Iceland, Hull and Grimsby for generations.
The visit began in Grimsby, where the Ambassador received a briefing on the vital role of Grimsby Fish Market and the work of the Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises, exploring how Icelandic waters helped shape the fortunes of both Grimsby and Hull during the height of the UK’s distant-water fishing industry.
The group also visited Mariner Foods Trading, where discussions focused on the continued importance of seafood trading links and the modern fishing and food supply sectors that connect the UK and Iceland today.
Following the Grimsby programme, the Ambassador travelled to Hull and was welcomed by Lord Mayor of Hull and Admiral of the Humber, Councillor Maria Coward.
The Ambassador saw the city’s Arctic Corsair and new visitor centre, where she met members of the team delivering Hull’s ambitious maritime regeneration programme. She learned more about the lives of the fishermen who worked in some of the world’s most challenging fishing grounds, including those around Iceland and significant confrontation with the Icelandic Coastguard Gunboat, the Odinn.
The visit continued at the Hull Maritime Museum, where discussions highlighted the city’s investment in preserving and sharing its maritime story, with a particular focus on exhibits that explore Hull’s historical relationship with Iceland through fishing, trade, migration and cultural exchange.
The Ambassador was also given a wider tour of the Maritime Building, providing an opportunity to learn more about the capital programme that is transforming Hull’s maritime heritage offer and creating new ways for visitors to engage with the city’s internationally significant seafaring history.
The visit formed part of a shared commitment to celebrating the historic bonds between Iceland and the Humber region. For generations, Icelandic fishing grounds played a central role in the prosperity of Hull and Grimsby, while the communities of both nations developed lasting social, economic and cultural connections.
Speaking after the visit, Councillor Maria Coward, Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull and Admiral of the Humber, said: “The Ambassador’s interest in the region’s heritage underlined the importance of preserving and sharing stories that demonstrate the long-standing relationship between Hull, Grimsby and Iceland.”
As Hull Maritime prepares to welcome visitors to the Arctic Corsair from spring 2027, the visit provided a timely opportunity to showcase how international connections, particularly those with Iceland, remain an integral part of the city’s maritime story.
