Maritime museum wins award for £20m renovation

A museum celebrating a city's seafaring history has won an award following a major renovation.

Hull Maritime Museum was named Refurbishment/Renovation Of The Year at the Insider Yorkshire Property Awards 2026.

The site reopened in August following £20m of work.

Mike Ross, the leader of Hull City Council, said: "The project has breathed new life into one of Hull's most important historic buildings, ensuring its future while creating an outstanding visitor experience that celebrates our city's world-famous maritime heritage."

The Grade II* listed landmark was built in 1871 and was the city's former Dock Offices.

It underwent the renovation as part of the Hull Maritime Project,which was funded by Hull City Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Insider Media said the refurbishment had overcome a number of issues including "deterioration within the roof structure and asbestos, including aerosol contamination within a lift shaft".

The judging panel praised the "attention to detail" in the renovated building as "exceptional".

"The building's use now has a much wider purpose than it once did and is all part of a wider programme of civic regeneration," they added.

Ross said: "The success of the museum reflects the dedication, skill and passion of everyone involved in the project and demonstrates the value of investing in our heritage assets.

"We are incredibly proud that Hull Maritime Museum is being recognised as the very best refurbishment and restoration projects in Yorkshire.

"The thousands of visitors since it reopened have recognised the quality of the museum, so it is pleasing to see it now get the recognition of this award."

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