Hull Named One of the World’s Top Travel Destinations for 2026 (Yes, Really!)

By Mr Plane Guy, Travel Blogger & Flight Expert

Plane Travel News & Reviews with Altitude

Hull. Yes, Hull!

National Geographic has just revealed its Top 25 Travel Destinations for 2026. Alongside bucket-list heavyweights like Fiji, Beijing, and the Dolomites, there’s a surprise entry: Hull, Yorkshire, England, right here in the UK.

As highlighted in National Geographic’s Top 25 Destinations for 2026, the travel magazine praised Hull’s “laid-back charm that’s hard to resist.” It spotlighted the upcoming reopening of the Hull Maritime Museum, which has undergone a major transformation. Visitors will soon be able to see thousands of newly displayed artefacts and, for the first time, step inside one of the museum’s iconic domes.

So if you thought Hull was just for ferry ports and chip shops, think again. It’s officially gone from fish dock to top spot 🏆.

The World’s Best Travel Destinations for 2026 (Nat Geo)

National Geographic’s explorers, photographers, and editors picked their top 25 holiday hotspots, featuring a mix of crowd-pleasers and under-the-radar gems. Here are a few standouts:

• Hull, Yorkshire, England

• North Dakota’s Badlands, USA, rugged new Three Affiliated Tribes National Park

• Beijing, China, where ancient wonders meet modern revival

• Coastal Oaxaca, Mexico, offering beachside bliss after Day of the Dead

• Oulu, Finland, where Arctic design meets the Northern Lights

• Rabat, Morocco, with a brand-new British Airways Gatwick route for 2026!

• Fiji, Dominica, Uluru, and Vancouver also make the list

  
  

Yes, that's a pair of Hull socks!

Hull might not have palm trees or penguins, but it does have affordable trains, friendly locals, and a pub for every mood. Plus, exploring at home is the ultimate Avios saver. No jet lag, no luggage fees, and no airport Pret.

So before you splash your points on Fiji or Rabat (which I’ll be covering in my Luxury Escapes for Less series soon), maybe give Yorkshire’s waterfront a go. Your wallet will thank you!

I’m excited to be partnering with Stand4 Socks, which create the most comfortable, sustainable socks I’ve ever worn. Each pair celebrates iconic UK cities (I’ve got the London edition), and here’s the best part: for every pair you buy, they donate a pair to someone experiencing homelessness in your area.

Born from a simple idea, “if everyone wears socks, why not make them change the world?” Stand4 Socks creates engineered-for-comfort socks that are bold, breathable, and built for travellers.

For every pair sold, they donate a thick, antibacterial pair to someone experiencing homelessness. So far, that’s over 150,000 pairs given and counting.

“Fantastic Stand4 Socks donate a thick anti-bacterial pair for every pair sold.” Stephen Fry

They’re ideal for long walking days, airport layovers, or even those chilly mornings catching the Hull-to-Rotterdam ferry. Plane Approved for comfort, ethics, and effortless style.

👉 Buy some Stand4 Socks and make your next trip a little kinder.

I’m not entirely sure how we went from Hull to socks, but here we are. Honestly, you should grab a pair with your own UK city on them.

👉 Shop Stand4 Socks here

and make your next trip a little kinder. For every pair you buy, they donate another to someone experiencing homelessness in your area.

That’s warmth for your giftee and warmth for someone in need. A stylish, practical, and purposeful gift—what’s not to love?

Time Out recently called Hull one of the most underrated UK city breaks! Maybe Hull won’t give you tan lines, but it’ll give you something better: a trip that’s kind to your wallet and the world. That’s my kind ofLuxury Escape for Less.*

Discovering Hull: A City of Surprises

The Cultural Scene

Hull is not just about its maritime history. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous galleries, theatres, and music venues. The Ferens Art Gallery is a must-visit. It features a fantastic collection of contemporary and historical art.

Culinary Delights

Food lovers will find Hull a treasure trove. The city offers a diverse culinary landscape. From traditional fish and chips to modern eateries, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the outdoors, Hull has plenty to offer. The nearby East Riding of Yorkshire is perfect for hiking and cycling. The stunning coastline is ideal for a day out.

Shopping and Nightlife

Hull's shopping scene is thriving. From high street brands to independent boutiques, you can find it all. The nightlife is equally impressive, with a range of pubs, bars, and clubs to explore.

Conclusion

Hull is more than just a city; it's an experience waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder Hull has made it onto the world stage.

Related Plane Blogs: City Breaks with Altitude

Looking for more affordable UK getaways with style? Check out these Plane Good Blogs from my travels:

• Cheap Hotels Edinburgh: Moxy Hotel Review - Stylish, budget-friendly, and steps from the best bars in Fountainbridge.

• A Review of The Roseate Edinburgh Hotel - Boutique luxury and afternoon tea perfection near Haymarket.

• Plaza Premium Lounge Edinburgh Airport Review - My go-to pre-flight escape at Edinburgh Airport.

• Your Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Christmas Markets 2025 - From mulled wine to Moxy stays, the festive capital has it all.

• Top 5 Travel Tips for Visiting Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets - How to plan the perfect winter weekend in Scotland’s capital.

  
  

Hello, I’m Paul a professional jet-setter and all-around plane travel pro. After 15 years working in and around planes, I became a flight delay expert at a London airport and mastered plane travel hacks, a PLANE flight expert with BIG travel plans but small carry-on.

Now, I share PLANE travel news, tips, reviews, and deals with honesty, humour, and zero baggage! Thanks for reading Hull Named One of the World’s Top Travel Destinations for 2026 (Yes, Really!)

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