Homebuyer’s Guide to Hull
Hull is a growing city with a range of housing options, strong transport links and ongoing development projects that make it an attractive place to live. This guide provides essential information for potential homebuyers looking to move to the area.
Geography and Housing
Hull is located in East Yorkshire on the Humber Estuary, with a mix of urban and suburban housing. The city has a variety of property types, including terraced homes in areas like The Avenues, modern apartments in Victoria Dock and detached houses in Kingswood. The local landscape and proximity to waterways mean some areas have specific planning and flood risk considerations.
Unique Attributes of Hull
Hull has a strong maritime and industrial heritage, reflected in developments such as the regeneration of the Fruit Market area. The city is home to The Deep, a well-known aquarium and Hull Minster, a significant historical landmark. The annual Freedom Festival showcases the city’s cultural scene, while ongoing regeneration projects continue to enhance the urban landscape.
Neighbourhoods and Amenities
Hull offers a range of neighbourhoods to suit different lifestyles. The Avenues is known for its period properties and independent shops, while Kingswood provides newer housing with family-friendly amenities. Areas like Hessle and Anlaby offer suburban living with good access to the city. Shopping facilities include St Stephen’s Shopping Centre and Princes Quay, with a variety of supermarkets and retail parks across the city.
Architectural Traits and Building Materials
Housing in Hull varies from Victorian terraces to contemporary developments. Older properties often feature brick construction with slate roofs, while newer homes use modern materials for better insulation and energy efficiency. Buyers considering older homes should be aware of potential maintenance costs related to traditional materials and structures.
Flooding Risk and Radon Levels
Some parts of Hull, particularly those near the Humber Estuary, are at risk of flooding. Flood defences have been significantly improved, but buyers should check if properties require additional flood resilience measures. Radon levels in Hull are generally low, though buyers can request environmental reports for specific areas.
Crime in Hull
Hull has one of the highest crime rates in the East Riding of Yorkshire, with 143 crimes per 1,000 people recorded in 2023. This is 46% higher than the regional average of 98 per 1,000. Nationally, Hull ranks as the third most dangerous city in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Prospective buyers should consider local crime statistics when choosing a neighbourhood and review available community safety initiatives.
Transportation and Connectivity
Hull has strong transport connections, including direct rail services to London and Manchester. The A63 provides easy access to the M62, linking Hull to Leeds and beyond. Local bus services run throughout the city and cycling infrastructure has improved in recent years. Hull Paragon Interchange is the main transport hub for trains and buses.
Education and Family Life
Hull has several primary and secondary schools, including Kelvin Hall School and St Mary’s College. The University of Hull offers higher education options, while Hull College provides vocational training. Parks such as East Park and Pearson Park offer green spaces for families and attractions like Hull Marina provide leisure opportunities.
Comparison with Nearby Areas
Compared to Beverley, Hull offers more affordable housing and a wider range of property options. While Beverley is known for its historic charm and market town atmosphere, Hull provides greater employment opportunities, better transport links and ongoing urban regeneration.
Best Places to Live in Hull
Hull offers a range of neighbourhoods catering to different preferences and lifestyles:
- The Avenues: Known for its period properties, tree-lined streets and a thriving independent café and retail scene, The Avenues is popular with professionals and families.
- Kingswood: A modern development with new-build homes, excellent schools and leisure facilities, making it ideal for families.
- Victoria Dock: Offers waterfront living with easy access to the city centre, appealing to professionals and those who enjoy scenic surroundings.
- Hessle: A suburban area just outside Hull with strong transport links, good schools and a mix of property types.
- Anlaby: Provides a quieter setting with local amenities, well-regarded schools and convenient access to Hull and nearby Beverley.