Ferens Art Gallery Hull
A free-to-enter art gallery in Hull, showcasing European masterpieces, marine art, and contemporary exhibitions with a dedicated children's space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Ferens Art Gallery Hull
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free-to-enter art gallery in Hull, showcasing European masterpieces, marine art, and contemporary exhibitions with a dedicated children's space.
"A fantastic city Art Gallery with many important works of Art. Especially the Dutch Masters Gallery."
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity in Hull. :moneywithwings:
✨ Check Current Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions change, so check the website to see what's on before you visit. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dutch Masters Gallery
Upper Galleries
Marvel at masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, featuring renowned artists and exquisite detail.

HAIR: Identity in the Afroworld
Special Exhibition Space
A powerful exploration of Black hair's beauty, history, and identity through film, photography, and community stories.

Hull on the Rise Exhibition
Special Exhibition Space
Art responding to the experience of local flooding, showcasing collective strength and community resilience.

Children's Gallery
Ground Floor
Interactive art installations, dress-up, and creative play designed to spark young imaginations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Check Exhibition Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity in Hull. :moneywithwings:
✨ Check Current Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions change, so check the website to see what's on before you visit. :calendar:
🎨 Interactive Kids' Zone
The children's gallery is a hit with families, offering hands-on fun and creative play. :child:
🚶♀️ Explore Dutch Masters
Don't miss the impressive collection of Dutch Masters, a highlight for many visitors. :frame_photo:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity in Hull. :moneywithwings:
✨ Check Current Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions change, so check the website to see what's on before you visit. :calendar:
🎨 Interactive Kids' Zone
The children's gallery is a hit with families, offering hands-on fun and creative play. :child:
🚶♀️ Explore Dutch Masters
Don't miss the impressive collection of Dutch Masters, a highlight for many visitors. :frame_photo:
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is often allowed in permanent collections, but check signage for specific exhibition rules. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ferens Art Gallery for its excellent, free-to-enter collections, particularly the Dutch Masters and engaging children's gallery. While most find the layout and staff friendly, some have noted issues with specific exhibition setups, like the 'calm' exhibition's audio guides and seating, or the noise from nearby installations.
"Wonderfully curated gallery. Only downside was the calm (I think it was called, the upper gallery space) exhibition which had great potential, thwarted by the narrated mindful audio guides insisting that you take a seat when there wasn’t a seat to be found. That and the jet turbine effect noise from the inflatable installation, below the gallery, altogether counteracting the calm."
Matt Watson-Power
"It's a fantastic city Art Gallery with many important works of Art. Especially the Dutch Masters Gallery.
Also Marine and contemporary art collections. We worth a visit."
Mr Wright
"Nice art gallery but brilliant exhibition on for children. Lovely items to play with, dress up and great interactive art installations."
Louise Birkenshaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferens Art Gallery is centrally located in Hull's Museum Quarter. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus stops nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre.
Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the gallery. Check local signage for rates and availability.
Hull Paragon Interchange is the main train station, located about a 15-20 minute walk from the gallery. Taxis and local buses are available from the station.
The gallery is generally accessible, with lifts and ramps available. It's recommended to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
Opening hours typically vary, but it's usually open daily. It's best to check the official Ferens Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ferens Art Gallery offers free admission to all its permanent collections and most temporary exhibitions.
While many exhibitions are free, some major temporary exhibitions may have a charge. Always check the gallery's website for details.
For free general admission, booking isn't usually required. However, for any ticketed special exhibitions, advance booking might be recommended or necessary.
The gallery does not offer a wardrobe or locker service, so it's advisable to travel light.
Weekday mornings are generally the quietest times to visit. Weekends, especially afternoons, can be busier, particularly when family events are on.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The gallery boasts a diverse collection, including European art, Dutch Masters, marine art, contemporary art, and British artists. They also host rotating special exhibitions.
Absolutely! The dedicated children's gallery offers interactive installations, dress-up opportunities, and creative activities.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use in the permanent collection areas, but always check for signs or ask staff, as this can vary for special exhibitions.
Information on guided tours or talks may be available, especially for special exhibitions. Check the gallery's schedule or inquire at the information desk.
The 'Sirens' exhibition, mentioned by visitors, likely refers to a past or current temporary exhibition focusing on themes related to sirens or maritime history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific details about a cafe aren't always highlighted, many galleries have a cafe or refreshment area. It's best to check their website or inquire upon arrival.
Yes, Ferens Art Gallery is in Hull city centre, which has numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a wide range of dining options.
Generally, eating and drinking are not permitted inside the galleries to protect the artworks. There might be designated areas for this.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is often allowed in permanent collection areas, but flash photography is usually prohibited. Always look for signage or ask staff, as rules can differ for temporary exhibitions.
The diverse art collections, from historical to contemporary, offer many visually interesting subjects. Exhibitions like 'HAIR: Identity in the Afroworld' can be particularly photogenic.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside art galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and potentially damaging artworks.
Focus on capturing the essence of the artwork. Consider lighting and composition. For AR-enhanced exhibits, you might need specific apps like Artivive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the children's zone, the diverse permanent collections and rotating exhibitions offer visual stimulation for all ages. The gallery's central location in the Museum Quarter also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly attractions.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to experience culture on a budget. You can spend hours exploring the diverse collections, from Dutch Masters to contemporary pieces, and enjoy special exhibitions without any cost.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the historical pieces, the gallery consistently presents thought-provoking temporary exhibitions that cover a wide range of themes and artists, from local talent to international showcases. The opportunity to see works like those in the 'HAIR: Identity in the Afroworld' exhibition provides a contemporary and culturally relevant experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Beyond the Old Masters, the gallery also showcases a notable collection of marine art, reflecting Hull's maritime heritage. Contemporary art is also a key focus, with rotating exhibitions that bring modern perspectives and diverse mediums to the forefront. Visitors have praised the thoughtful curation, which allows for an engaging journey through different artistic movements and themes.
Recent exhibitions like 'HAIR: Identity in the Afroworld' and 'Hull on the Rise' highlight the gallery's commitment to exploring relevant social and cultural topics through art. These exhibitions often incorporate film, photography, and community stories, making them powerful and immersive experiences.
Family Fun at Ferens
Expect to find creative installations, opportunities for dress-up, and various interactive art activities that encourage play and imagination. It's a space where children can learn about art concepts through doing, making it a memorable experience for them.
Beyond the dedicated children's area, the gallery's diverse collections can also spark curiosity in younger minds. The approachable layout and the free admission make it an easy and enjoyable outing for families looking for cultural enrichment without a hefty price tag.
Exhibitions and Events
Visitors often highlight the open exhibitions, which provide a platform for a wide array of artists and leave attendees feeling inspired. These events can be a great way to see diverse artistic expressions and discover emerging talents.
The gallery also serves as a venue for various cultural events, including performances, talks, and fashion events, as seen with the 'Fashion Through the Lens of Art' event. Checking their schedule is key to experiencing the full breadth of what Ferens Art Gallery offers beyond its permanent collections.
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