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Why Hull's Old Town Is the UK's Next Foodie Hub — illustration

Why Hull's Old Town Is the UK's Next Foodie Hub

From sourdough bakeries to Vietnamese small-plates, the Old Town has quietly become a serious dining destination.

By Sam Whitfield·24 May 2026·7 min read

Walk through Old Town on a Friday night and the queues tell the story. What used to be a dependable pub-and-curry circuit now has bakeries, small plates, Vietnamese kitchens, cocktail bars and independent coffee shops all feeding into the same few streets.

The appeal is partly practical: the area is compact, walkable and close to the waterfront. But the bigger shift is confidence. Operators are taking smaller spaces, writing tighter menus and betting that Hull diners will follow good ideas wherever they land.

For visitors, the best approach is to move slowly. Start with a drink, split a few plates, then wander towards High Street or Trinity Square for whatever looks busiest. In Old Town, busy is usually a useful recommendation.

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