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life

Kingston op de Romp

Kingston på skroget!

Myton, Wyke and then Kingston upon Hull to give it its proper name has always looked to the sea and has many connections with northern Europe, notably Scandanavia, the Baltic and the Netherlands or Low Countries.

The River Hull came to prominence in the 12th century when the Cistercian monks of Meaux (near Beverley) exported their wool to Europe and developed the river entrance into a thriving port leading to the creation of the hamlet of Wyke. Wyke is variously described as being a settlement – the word “wic” being a common term although some say it comes from scandanavian meaning creek or small river.

Victorian Arcades can still be discovered with artisan shops
City Hall and theatre harks back to a time when Hull enjoyed much prosperity

By the end of the 13th century King Edward I granted Wyke its first charter and it became known as Kings Town on the River Hull or Kingston upon Hull.

in 2022 the Maritime Museum reopens after several years of renovation
Optimistic Hotels from a bygone era
when public houses were everywhere
imposing buildings remain despite Hull being the most bombed city during World War 2 and then decades of constant demolition and redevelopment
the old town down by the river Hull still has some impressive buildings where renovation has given them another life
And yes there still public houses dotted around
The river Hull defines the reused Old town on its west bank while the east bank is still largely a different industrial legacy
Elegant arcades still exist
with some very fascinating shops!
Trinity Market has been renovated and rejuvenated with plenty of small enterprises
and there are people still remembered through the odd statue such as Amy Johnson
The Deep Aquarium is a big draw for the city
With a fabulous central tank holding many species it really is worth a visit
eel with attitude!
plenty of bright fish to be seen
Nearby you can find eateries next to the marina
and boats are still to be found
This shark statue at the Deep with the River Hull flood barrier behind – signs of our times
The Deep Aquarium is a magnificent site located at the confluence of Hull and Humber

Today Hull, as it is commonly known, is a post industrial city which usually means tourists avoid such places. Hull is rich in history and has some excellent locations to visit. So make 2022 the year you visit.

sunshine on Humber

Medieval Map license

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/02/Hull._1611_John_Speed_in_The_Theatre_of_the_Empire_of_Great_Britaine.jpg