
Hull Fish Trail
A city-wide scavenger hunt featuring 41 unique fish sculptures, celebrating Hull's maritime heritage and guiding you through its landmarks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Hull Fish Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A city-wide scavenger hunt featuring 41 unique fish sculptures, celebrating Hull's maritime heritage and guiding you through its landmarks.
"It's a lot of fun to do all these years later on a trip back to Hull. We didn't find them all, but more than enough to make it worthwhile."

🗺️ Get Your Fish Trail Map
Grab a map from the Tourist Information Centre or use a dedicated app to navigate the trail effectively .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find all 41 fish sculptures, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Hull Shark
Outside a former bank
A massive shark sculpture that's hard to miss, marking a significant point on the trail.

Herring Sculptures
Various locations
Discover these sleek fish, a nod to Hull's historical fishing industry.

Starfish and Sea Creatures
Throughout the city
Beyond fish, keep an eye out for other marine life scattered across Hull.

Victoria Pier
Near the waterfront
A scenic spot to pause, enjoy the views, and perhaps find a fish sculpture nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hunt: It's a Fishy Adventure!
Timing is Everything for Your Fishy Quest
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Get Your Fish Trail Map
Grab a map from the Tourist Information Centre or use a dedicated app to navigate the trail effectively.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find all 41 fish sculptures, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The trail can take 3+ hours, especially if you're hunting for every single fish.
📸 Capture Your Finds
Document your discoveries! Many artists have contributed unique pieces to the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Get Your Fish Trail Map
Grab a map from the Tourist Information Centre or use a dedicated app to navigate the trail effectively.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find all 41 fish sculptures, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The trail can take 3+ hours, especially if you're hunting for every single fish.
📸 Capture Your Finds
Document your discoveries! Many artists have contributed unique pieces to the trail.
☕ Pitstop Ready
Plenty of cafes and pubs along the route for breaks and refreshments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Hull Fish Trail a delightful and engaging way to explore the city, appreciating its free nature and historical connection. While finding all the sculptures can be a lengthy endeavor, the journey itself is rewarding, with plenty of opportunities for breaks and photo ops. Some mention that not all fish are easy to locate, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"I have to confess an emotional attachment to this trail. I worked in the marketing department at Seven Seas in the early 1990s when this was set up.
My boss at the time was the driving force, and I have such fond memories of my time there and my boss.
Walking the trail was such fun to do all these years later on a trip back to Hull. We didn't find them all, but more than enough to make it worthwhile.
It's a good 3 hour plus activity, but there are plenty of places for a pitstop.
We bumped into several folk doing the trail on the day so it's obviously still popular.
I'm lucky enough to have a commemorative brick and a silver anchovy from my time at Seven Seas."
Sean O'Neill
"The fish trail is a lot of fun to do. There are all different types of fish and sea creatures to see at various places of interest around the city. It starts in the center of the city goes out passed Hull Minster towards the pier and there are various fish in the pavement around the City ( including a large shark outside a former bank), it's a great way of doing a tour you can buy a map of the fish trail in The Tourist Information Centre."
Andrew Nell
"A fun walking route to discover Hull's main sights. It follows a path that follows various fish species. It was a great experience, and we managed to find almost all the fish. There's a map of the route you can follow, as well as a handy app."
Wim Hobbelink
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hull Fish Trail is spread throughout the city center and waterfront. You can easily reach Hull by train or bus. Once in the city, most of the trail is walkable from the main transport hubs. Many sculptures are located near key landmarks like Hull Minster and the pier.
Yes, there are several car parks in Hull city center. Consider parking near the waterfront or the main shopping areas to be close to many of the fish sculptures. Some Redditors suggest parking and then walking the trail.
Absolutely! Hull has a good bus network. You can use buses to hop between different sections of the trail, especially if you want to cover more ground without extensive walking. Check local bus routes for convenience.
The trail largely follows pavements and public areas, making it generally accessible. However, some areas might have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check specific locations if accessibility is a major concern. Some sculptures are at street level, making them easy to view.
There isn't one official starting point, but many find it convenient to begin near the city center or the waterfront. The Tourist Information Centre is a good place to get a map and orient yourself before setting off.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Hull Fish Trail is a free public art installation. You can explore it at your own pace without any admission fees. It's a fantastic free activity for visitors.
The sculptures are permanently installed in public spaces, so you can visit the Hull Fish Trail at any time of day or night. However, for the best experience and safety, daytime visits are recommended.
You can purchase a map of the Hull Fish Trail at The Tourist Information Centre in Hull. Some online resources and apps may also provide trail information.
Yes, there are apps available that can help you navigate the Hull Fish Trail and locate the various fish sculptures. These apps often provide additional information about each sculpture and its artist.
While there aren't official guided tours for the Fish Trail itself, many local walking tours of Hull may incorporate stops at some of the sculptures. Exploring independently with a map or app is also a popular and rewarding way to experience it.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There are 41 life-size fish sculptures that make up the Hull Fish Trail, each representing different species and created by various artists.
Completing the entire trail and finding all 41 fish can take approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each location.
You'll find a variety of fish and sea creatures, from common species like herring and haddock to larger ones like sharks. Each sculpture is unique and adds to the city's artistic landscape.
While the sculptures themselves are the main attraction, some visitors enjoy the interactive element of the 'hunt' to find them all. The fountains at City Hall can also be a fun, splashy addition to the experience.
The large shark sculpture is a popular photo spot. Many of the fish are placed in visually interesting locations, offering great opportunities for unique shots. Don't forget to capture the diverse artistic styles of the sculptures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the trail winds through the city center and waterfront, which are packed with cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll have plenty of options for a meal or a snack during your walk.
Absolutely! There are many pleasant spots, especially near the waterfront and parks, where you can enjoy a picnic. Victoria Pier is mentioned as a good spot for a picnic break.
Hull city center offers a wide range of dining choices, including many establishments with vegetarian and vegan options. You'll find diverse cuisines to suit different tastes.
Given its maritime history, seafood is a natural choice. However, Hull also offers a broad spectrum of British and international cuisine. Look out for local pubs serving traditional fare.
Depending on the day and any local events, you might find food stalls or markets in the city center. It's worth checking local listings for any temporary food offerings during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful light for photographing the sculptures and cityscapes. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also highlight the textures of the art.
The large shark sculpture is a definite highlight. Many of the fish are placed in front of interesting architecture or waterfront views, providing unique photographic backdrops.
A standard zoom lens is versatile for capturing both individual sculptures and wider city scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the larger installations or to include more of the surroundings. Don't forget a fully charged phone for quick snaps.
Yes, taking photos of the public art is encouraged! Many artists have contributed to the trail, and sharing your photos helps promote their work and the trail itself.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography of the public art. However, always be mindful of private property and any specific signage in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on finding a selection of the fish rather than all 41 to avoid overtiring younger children. The large shark sculpture is often a big hit, as are any sculptures located near open spaces or fountains where kids can burn off energy. The trail also offers opportunities to discuss marine life and Hull's history in a fun, accessible way.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own water bottle and snacks to save money, and utilize the many public benches or scenic spots for a picnic lunch. Walking the trail is the most economical way to experience it, so comfortable shoes are your best investment. This trail offers incredible value, providing hours of entertainment and exploration for zero cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and compositions. Golden hour light can add a magical quality to the sculptures and the surrounding cityscapes. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of some installations or a zoom lens for detail shots. The trail also provides opportunities to photograph Hull's broader urban environment, from historic buildings to modern developments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Artistry of the Hull Fish Trail
The trail was initially conceived to boost tourism and engage the local community with public art. Each fish represents a species that was once significant to Hull's economy and identity. Walking the trail offers a unique perspective on the city's development, from its bustling docks to its modern waterfront. The ongoing 'Critical Fish' project further enriches the trail by commissioning new artworks inspired by the original fish, fostering contemporary artistic dialogue around marine life and conservation.
Visitors often express delight in discovering these hidden aquatic gems. The trail encourages exploration and provides a fun, informal way to learn about Hull's past. It's a testament to how public art can transform a city, making history accessible and engaging for everyone. The blend of historical significance and artistic expression makes the Hull Fish Trail a truly memorable experience.
Navigating the Hull Fish Trail: Maps, Apps, and Tips
When planning your route, remember that the trail spans a considerable area of the city. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking – some visitors estimate it takes over three hours to find most of the fish. The trail winds through the city center, past landmarks like Hull Minster, and out towards the pier, offering diverse scenery. Don't be discouraged if you don't find every single one; the joy is in the discovery and the journey itself.
Beyond navigation, practical tips from fellow travelers include planning for breaks. The route passes numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants, perfect for a pitstop, a meal, or even a picnic. This makes the Fish Trail not just a sightseeing activity but a full day out, blending exploration with local flavor and relaxation.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit