Car Hire in Humberside, UK

Humberside

Humberside was created in 1974, a non-metropolitan county situated in the north-east of England. Its creation outraged many locals, and there was widespread celebration when the county was abolished less than 25 years later. In 1996 it was replaced by four unitary authorities, although the name continues in use. Humberside takes its name from the River Humber which it straddles. The most well-known cities are Kingston upon Hull (usually referred to simply as Hull) and Beverley, originally a monastic settlement founded in 705AD. Both are often overlooked by tourists but offer history, architectural treasures and a no-nonsense introduction to Yorkshire! Proximity to the coast led, historically, to an economy based around seafaring and fishing. The fictional Robinson Crusoe even set sail from Hull. More recently, thousands of holidaymakers were attracted to Humberside's beaches. The seaside resorts of Cleethorpes and Bridlington have undeniably had their heyday, but they do retain some charm.

Attractions

Hull’s main interest lies in its maritime heritage, so head for the excellent Maritime Museum – admission is free. You can continue the theme by viewing the seascapes on display at the Ferens Art Gallery. Close to Queen Victoria Square lies the 13th century church of the Holy Trinity, where William Wilberforce was baptised before going on to campaign for the abolition of the slave trade. His house is open to the public and lies at the northern end of High Street.

Beverley is famous for the Minster, an architectural masterpiece which survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries. There is plenty to take in – don't miss the beautiful rose windows, The town boasts more than 300 buildings of historical note, so you can simply enjoy wandering the streets. Events are held in Beverley throughout the year, the Early Music and Literature Festivals being particularly renowned.

North of Bridlington lie Bempton Cliffs, a spectacular stretch of coastline riddled with sea caves. The cliffs are home to over a quarter of a million sea birds, and fall within an RSPB reserve. The colony is most spectacular during the breeding season and is a great place to bring the kids.

Shopping

Hull and Beverley have branches of all the high street chains, with Princes Quay Shopping Centre in Hull a particularly good place to head on rainy days. In December, dozens of stalls line the streets of Beverley for the town's Festival of Christmas – a great place to pick up festive gifts.

Nightlife/Dining

Humberside has no shortage of pubs and clubs. If you're looking to dance the night away try the Welly Club or Waterfront in Hull. For a quiet pint, head for Ye Olde White Hart in an alleyway off Silver Street. This pub has real ale on offer and it was here, in 1642, that John Hotham conceived an idea that ultimately triggered the English Civil War. Meanwhile Beverley has a host of historic drinking holes, including local favourites the White Horse and the Woolpack Inn, which serve a range of ales and well-priced pub grub.

Restaurants abound in Humberside, with freshly-landed fish on the menu and some great vegetarian options in Hull. For seafood try Cerutti's, overlooking the River Humber, or Fiddleheads opposite Holy Trinity church for meat-free fare. Beverley is home to Cerutti2, sister restaurant to Cerutti's in Hull.

Tourist Information

1 Paragon Street
Hull
East Yorkshire
HU1 3NA
Tel. 01482 223559
Fax. 01482 613959
Email tourist.information@hullcc.gov.uk

Airport

Humberside Airport is actually located in North Lincolnshire, accessible from Junction 5 of the M180, with excellent connections onto the M18, M62 and M1 motorways. Barnetby rail station lies 5km from the airport, with frequent services via Doncaster to UK mainline stations. A bus service links the airport with Hull and Grimsby.

Within the UK, you can fly to Humberside from Aberdeen or Dublin. Further afield, summer flights link Humberside to a number of Mediterranean holiday destinations, while winter offerings include flights to and from Lapland. You can also reach Humberside on KLM flights out of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, an international hub for long-haul flights.