Entertainment in Hull

With three theatres putting on a range of events, from musicals to stand up comedy, workshops to original plays and more, Hull is rightly considered a cultural jewel in the north.

Opened in 1939, Hull New Theatre in Kingston Square covers everything from musicals to opera and ballet to family-friendly shows, including their annual pantomime. With a capacity of just over 1,100, the theatre was recently given a £16million refurb and re-opened in 2017 with increased wheelchair access, infrared headsets and a brand new entrance and foyer.

Capable of holding up to 1,800 spectators, Hull City Hall was built in 1903 and is the largest theatre venue in the city, hosting a range of concerts, comedy shows, classical music events and conferences and exhibitions. Big names like Jools Holland, Paul Young, Travis and even Peppa Pig have played at the theatre in recent years.

Not actually a mobile theatre truck – although that does sound fun – Hull Truck is an alternative, open-minded 440-capacity theatre in Ferensway that not only hosts a wide range of touring plays and theatre but also puts on its own home-produced events. If it’s thought-provoking theatre and expression you’re after, look no further.

Rugby league and football loom large in this Yorkshire city, with Hull City being an ex-Premier League team.

Formed in 1904, Hull City – known locally as The Tigers – hit the big time in 2007 when they were promoted to the Premier League for the first time in their history. That led to several seasons in the top league, including an FA Cup final appearance and a highest position of 16th in 2013. They moved into their current home, the KCOM Stadium, in 2002 and share the 25,400-capacity stadium with rugby league side Hull FC.

A short drive from our Hull West hotel, the ground also hosts live music and pop events, with Rod Stewart, The Who and Bon Jovi playing in recent years.

One of two professional rugby league teams in the city, Hull Kingston Rovers formed in 1882 and have largely been a mainstay in the Super League since 2007, while winning the RFL Championship five times during their history. Home games are played at the 8,500-capacity Craven Park on the west side of the city, with Hull FC – their long-term rivals – playing on the east side of the city and the River Hull separating the two teams.

The other rugby league outfit in the city, Hull FC were formed in 1865 as one of the founding members of the Northern Rugby Football Union. Playing their home games at the KCOM Stadium, the team have won five Challenge Cup titles and have finished third in the Super League several times, most recently during the 2017 season.