Politics graduate and Masters in Strategy and International Security student Liam Scroggie on his five top five things to do in Hull, from vegan delights on Newland Avenue to the historic Wilberforce House Museum.
Welcome to Hull, or 'ull as it is referred to locally. Once you have settled into your digs, a trip to town would be most worthwhile, so that you might see some of the delights that your new home has to offer. Here, I provide pointers towards five places that are not often frequented by the student flock.
“Safe bet for a Laugh out Loud Friday”
First up, the Comedy Lounge on George Street. A safe bet for a laugh out loud Friday or Saturday night. The Lounge constitutes Hull's only dedicated comedy hub and offers reasonably priced food and drink, and splendid entertainment provided by members of Britain's comedy circuit. Be sure to pop by.
Next, one cannot go far wrong with a retail therapy trip to Hepworth Arcade, located on Silver Street. Being a Grade II listed site, and featuring Victorian architecture, Hepworth's is not all shop, shop, shop; it is also rather pleasing on the eye. However, that is not all, the arcade is also home to some of Hull's best independent shops, such as: Beasley's, Fanthorpe's HiFi, and Dinsdale's Jokes & Tricks and lays claim to being home to one of Marks and Spencer's first penny arcades.
Third, consider making room on your itinerary for a visit to Pearson Park, with entrances on both Princes Avenue and Beverley Road. Established by Zachary Pearson, a Hullensian of historical importance, in 1860, the park has since provided a sanctuary for those looking to escape the less forgiving aspects of city life and courtesy of a £3 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant, Pearson Park looks better than ever! Keep an eye out for the stunning entrance archway, Victorian conservatory, duck pond and the many statues dotted around the park.
“Enjoy delicacies by the bucket load”
If you are feeling peckish, the Zoo Cafe might take your fancy, hidden away in Newland Avenue – the student central of Hull's suburbia – one can consume vegetarian and vegan delicacies, by the bucket load, whilst enjoying the edgy aesthetic in which one sits. Perhaps a subsequent trip to Pearson Park, which is just down the road, would help burn off any unwanted calories!
Last but not least, Wilberforce House, on High Street, simply cannot be ignored. The birthplace and former home of Hull's most famous son, William Wilberforce, the house now exhibits Wilberforce House Museum, which tells the tale of William Wilberforce, the trans-Atlantic slave trade, and modern slavery. With free entry and speedy visit times, one is free to traverse the charming High Street – one of Hull's oldest streets and its surrounding area at leisure. Certainly a visit to one of the nearby historic pubs should be considered.
With a little bit of luck, this guide will hold some useful purpose for you. Although not all encompassing, hopefully your eyes will be drawn towards places that often go unnoticed. Above all else, enjoy your time in the wonderful city of Hull.
Liam Scroggie graduated with a BA (Hons) Politics and is now completing a Masters in Strategy and International Security at the University of Hull. He is also set to start a PHD focus on strategic ethics in the Second World War.