9th February 2026
Hull’s celebrated maritime guided tours are set to return for 2026, launching on Saturday 14 February, during the half-term school holiday.
A dedicated team of 17 White Badge accredited volunteers will once again lead free guided walking tours, offering residents and visitors the chance to explore Hull’s rich and fascinating maritime heritage.
Following their success in 2025, four guided tours will run throughout the season on Thursdays and Saturdays at 10.30am, initially with additional Sunday tours at 11.30am and 1.30pm.
Key Highlights:
- Starting Point: Museum Quarter gardens, outside the Hull and East Riding Museum.
- Full tour duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, covering key landmarks such as:
- Future home of the Arctic Corsair at North End Shipyard
- Queen’s Gardens
- Exterior of the Maritime Museum
- Exterior of the Spurn Lightship at Hull Marina
- Blaydes House, Trinity House, and Hull Marina.
- Shorter Sunday afternoon route: The 1.30pm tour lasts 1.5 hours, covering half of the full route.
The maritime guided tours were Highly Commended at the prestigious Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTA) in the ‘Remarkable Experience of the Year’ category, reflecting the growing popularity of this unique city experience.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “2026 is a landmark year for the city as our maritime treasures come to life and open to the public.
“With four walks taking place over three days each week, Hull's maritime tours offer a fantastic opportunity for both locals and visitors to explore our city’s incredible maritime history and why Hull was named one of the top 25 places to visit in the world.
“Whether you’re new to Hull or a long-time resident, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to see our historic waterfront.”
John Tindall, a white badge tour guide, said: “2026 promises to be a superb year for Hull.
“With the Maritime Museum & Spurn Lightship opening and the Arctic Corsair arriving to name just a few.
“I'm looking forward to you joining me to hear their stories, as well as the rest of Hull's history on a Maritime Tour.
“It's no wonder the 'National Geographic' sang our praises.”
Alongside the returning walks, a new and exciting programme of guided tours is currently in development, further celebrating Hull’s rich maritime history and heritage.
Eileen Sumner, a white badge tour guide, said: “I am really looking forward to starting the well-established Maritime Tours again in February and loving the idea of doing something different with the Marina Tours. It is wonderful to be able to tell visitors and locals about our wonderful city.”
Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “The maritime guided tours have been an incredibly popular fixture in Hull and it is fantastic news that they are returning for 2026, a year that will see many of Hull Maritime’s attractions open to the public.
“We’re thrilled that thanks to National Lottery players we’ve been able to support these engaging tours that share the rich maritime heritage of the city.”
While booking is recommended to secure a spot, a limited number of walk-up places will also be available on the day.
To book your free place and find out more, visit Explore our maritime city with a guided walk
