Top Museums to Visit in Hull for Free or Low Cost

Hull is a city rich in history, culture, and maritime heritage, making it an ideal destination for those who love museums. Whether you're visiting for a short stay or looking for something to do at the weekend, Hull offers a variety of museums that are either completely free or require only a small entry fee. Here’s a guide to some of the best museums in Hull that won’t break the bank.

1. Streetlife Museum – Step Back in Time (Free Entry)

Located in Hull’s Museums Quarter, the Streetlife Museum is a must-visit for those fascinated by transport history. Walk through recreated Victorian streets, hop onto vintage carriages, and explore a collection of historic bicycles, trams, and cars. The museum is interactive, making it a great experience for visitors of all ages.

📍 Location: High Street, Hull
💰 Cost: Free

2. Hull Maritime Museum – Discover Hull’s Seafaring Past (Free Entry – Currently Under Renovation)

Hull’s Maritime Museum showcases the city’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. From whaling heritage to maritime trade, the museum features an impressive collection of ship models, scrimshaw art, and artefacts from Hull’s seafaring past. Although currently closed for major refurbishment, it will reopen as part of the exciting Hull: Yorkshire’s Maritime City project.

📍 Location: Queen Victoria Square, Hull
💰 Cost: Free (Check reopening updates)

3. Wilberforce House Museum – Learn About the Fight for Freedom (Free Entry)

Named after Hull-born abolitionist William Wilberforce, this museum tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade and the fight for its abolition. With powerful exhibits and personal artefacts, Wilberforce House Museum provides an insightful and educational experience about one of the most significant human rights movements in history.

📍 Location: High Street, Hull
💰 Cost: Free

4. Hull and East Riding Museum – Travel from the Ice Age to the Romans (Free Entry)

Step into Hull’s prehistoric past at the Hull and East Riding Museum. Here, you’ll find a life-size woolly mammoth, impressive Roman mosaics, Viking artefacts, and medieval treasures. This museum brings history to life, making it perfect for families and history lovers alike.

📍 Location: Museums Quarter, High Street, Hull
💰 Cost: Free

5. Hands on History Museum – A Hidden Gem in Hull (Free Entry)

Tucked away in Hull’s Old Town, the Hands on History Museum is a lesser-known but fascinating place to explore. Housed in the Old Grammar School, where William Wilberforce once studied, it features exhibitions on Hull’s history, Victorian childhood, and even an Egyptian mummy.

📍 Location: Trinity Square, Hull
💰 Cost: Free

6. Hull Fish Trail – A Museum in the Streets (Free Self-Guided Tour)

Not a museum in the traditional sense, but the Hull Fish Trail is a unique way to explore the city’s maritime history while enjoying a walk through the Old Town. Follow the 41 fish sculptures embedded in Hull’s streets, each representing a different species.

📍 Location: Starts at Queen Victoria Square
💰 Cost: Free

7. The Deep – One of Hull’s Most Popular Attractions (Small Cost – Worth It!)

While not free, The Deep is one of Hull’s most iconic attractions and is well worth a visit. As one of the UK’s largest aquariums, it features over 5,000 sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The underwater viewing tunnel and glass lift make for an unforgettable experience. Plus, your ticket allows free return visits for a year.

📍 Location: Tower Street, Hull
💰 Cost: From £19.75 (adults) – Free return for 12 months

Explore Hull’s Rich History Without Spending a Fortune

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of transport, or interested in Hull’s maritime legacy, these museums offer an affordable way to explore the city’s past. With many free options available, there’s no reason not to immerse yourself in Hull’s fascinating heritage.

For more tips on exploring Hull, luxury stays, or dining recommendations, visit The Rosemary Stay – the perfect base for discovering everything the city has to offer.

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