Hull, the historic port city on England’s east coast, has earned a place among National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 destinations — a recognition that has stirred pride, surprise, and celebration among locals.
The magazine praised Hull as an “underrated northern England port city” that has undergone “significant revitalisation” over the past decade. It highlighted cultural attractions such as the Hull Maritime Museum, the Spurn Lightship, and the Arctic Corsair — all integral to the city’s seafaring story.
For many residents, the news marks a remarkable turnaround. In 2003, Hull was infamously ranked the worst place to live in Britain by the book Crap Towns. Now, it shares a global platform with cities like Vancouver, Rio de Janeiro, and Hawaii.
“I’m extremely well travelled — 79 countries — and I think Hull holds its own,” said Susan Hogan, a 66-year-old resident enjoying a stroll around Hull Marina. “The only thing the city is missing is a big, yellow ball in the sky!” she joked, referring to the often-grey Yorkshire weather.
The recognition follows years of investment and regeneration. In 2017, Hull was named the UK City of Culture, which sparked a new wave of confidence and creativity. The city’s grand Victorian Maritime Museum, currently under a £27.5 million renovation, is expected to reopen in 2026 — the same year National Geographic predicts visitors will flock to see it.
Council leader Mike Ross hailed the accolade as “powerful recognition of how far our city has come.” He said the honour “shines a global spotlight on the incredible work happening across the city, from the transformation of our museums and historic ships to the regeneration of our public spaces and Hull Marina.”
Not everyone saw it coming. “I’m shocked,” laughed Terry Cook, 66, a retired gas engineer. “If it was just a UK list, maybe. But the world? That’s something!” Still, he praised the city’s redevelopment and the Maritime Museum’s revival.
Longtime residents Doreen and Ken Barnes, both 85, echoed that sense of surprise and pride. “Hull is home,” said Doreen. “It has so much to offer. The museums are fantastic — and free.”
Others see Hull’s appeal in its unpretentious charm. Rachel Welch, who moved from Philadelphia to work at the University of Hull, compared the city’s character to her hometown. “They’re both gritty, and the people are fiercely proud of where they’re from,” she said.
For David Hayes, 44, who moved from Liverpool 25 years ago, Hull’s evolution has been striking. “There’s a real sense of community here,” he said, while enjoying pastries near Murdoch’s Connection footbridge. “The museums, The Deep — there’s plenty for families.”
As the sun sets over Hull Marina, reflecting off the boats and restored buildings, there’s a renewed optimism in the air. Once ridiculed, Hull is now being celebrated on the world stage — a transformation its residents say was long overdue.
