Nestled on the northern banks of the River Humber, North Ferriby is a picturesque but lively village just a short drive west of Hull and within easy reach of the Yorkshire Wolds. With riverside walks, stunning views, ancient sites, and a close-knit village atmosphere, it’s the perfect base for a relaxing break or for exploring the wider region. We hope this guide will help you uncover the best sights, activities and experiences during your stay.
One of North Ferriby’s greatest charms lies in its riverside setting. You can take a leisurely walk along the Humber Foreshore, where you can spot wading birds, or search for fossils. The changing tides and the play of light on the water make every stroll unique and the sweeping estuary with views of the incredible Humber Bridge is perfect for sunrise and sunset photography. Early morning is the most peaceful time for spotting rare birds. Look out for historic landmarks, including remnants of the village’s maritime past.
Standing at the heart of the village, All Saints’ Church is a Grade II listed building with origins tracing back to the 13th century. Its peaceful churchyard and beautiful stained-glass windows are well worth a visit, offering a glimpse into the rich ecclesiastical history of the area.
Few villages can claim a heritage as ancient as North Ferriby’s. In 1937, the remains of one of Europe’s oldest boats were discovered here, dating back to around 2000 BC. While the actual boats are preserved in museums, you can visit the site within minutes’ walk of Brickyard Cottage along the Riverside Walkway and learn about this fascinating prehistoric find through local heritage trails and information boards.
4. Enjoy Tranquil Walkways and Green Spaces
North Ferriby is blessed with woodland and green spaces and the village playing fields are just two minutes up the road towards the church. The large adventure playground with its new skate park is great for kids of all ages. Ferriby has a proud tradition of football and the park is also home of North Ferriby FC, so catch a match if you can.
The famous Riverside Walkways and strolls through the ‘enchanted wood’ or to the Reed Pond and the river can be accessed from the cottage and are great for families, dog walkers, or anyone seeking a peaceful spot for a picnic. The benches dotted around are perfect for nature and bird watching. You’ll probably spot a few alpacas and ponies in the fields on the way.
The Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail runs close by, offering spectacular hiking and cycling opportunities. The gentle rolling hills, wildflower meadows, and far-reaching views are typical of the underrated East Riding landscape. Trails including the Wolds and Cleveland Way are easily accessible from North Ferriby, making it an ideal base for a day of rambling or biking.
The village and its environs boast a selection of welcoming pubs, cafés, and restaurants. Try the local ale at one of the traditional inns or enjoy a hearty Yorkshire meal in a cosy setting. For something sweet, hunt down homemade cakes and scones in one of the tearooms. Venues within walking distance include:
Just to the west of North Ferriby near the town of Hessle, lies the iconic Humber Bridge, once the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world. You can walk or cycle across to Lincolnshire for dazzling views, or visit the Humber Bridge Country Park, a local nature reserve set in former chalk quarries. Two miles walk or six-minute drive.
Depending on when you visit, you may be able to experience local events and celebrations:
The area is ideal for:
North Ferriby has its own railway station, providing regular connections to Hull and the wider region. The village is also well-served by local buses and is within easy reach of major roadways, including the A63 for quick access to the M62. There are also good bus services to nearby villages, and Hull.
While North Ferriby has a small selection of local shops, including a chemist, newsagent, a great bike shop, hairdressers within a few minutes’ walk opposite the church or another on Low Street, and an excellent Co-op on Ferriby High Road. You’ll also find supermarkets and additional amenities in the nearby village of Brough or town of Hessle. Beverley and Hull offer larger shopping destinations and markets. Brough has a Morrisons, Aldi and Sainsbury’s Local, Hessle has several supermarkets including a Sainsbury’s and a Waitrose, Aldi and Lidl can be found in Willerby on Great Gutter Lane.
In rough order of proximity:
Ferriby
The Duke of Cumberland – see above for details.
Ruthvika Spices and Kitchen restaurant – see above for details.
Swanland
The Swan and Cygnet – see above for details.
Villages nearby
A 20-minute drive brings you to Beverley, famed for its medieval Minster, bustling market, and cobbled streets lined with independent shops. Market days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) are especially lively, with local produce, crafts, and live music. You can also catch a train from Ferriby via Hull which takes approximately 31 minutes. The town was described as the ‘jewel’ on the crown of East Yorkshire was admired by the famous art historian, Nikolaus Pevsner for its Georgian architecture.
Recommended Pubs and Restaurants in Beverley (and there are so many more!)
There are many great pubs and bars in Beverley. If you want something upmarket you can do no better than The Beverley Arms, an old coaching inn which has undergone a superb, modern refurbishment. Check out the courtyard for al fresco dining. 25-27 North Bar Within HU17 8DD.
Or enjoy a pint of Sam Smiths in one of the breweries most famous pubs – The White Horse, otherwise known as Nellies. The place dates from 1666 and is a warren of gaslit rooms of various sizes, chandeliers and roaring fires in winter. 22 Hengate HU17 8BN.
The Monks Walk – Live music, pizzas, dogs allowed, outdoor seating with glimpses of the Minster, historical and fantastically quirky pub. 19 Highgate HU17 0DN Tel: 01482 864972
Junk Bar & Kitchen – Craft ale and delicious vegan food, dogs welcome, outdoor seating. Bright and welcoming. 7 New Walkergate HU17 9EH
King’s Head – Lively, trendy bar in Saturday market - great beer selection, dining options, cocktails, good for kids, dogs allowed. 38 Market Place HU17 9AG
Rose and Crown – situated at North Bar Without next to Beverley Westwood and Racecourse, attractive pub with great beer garden, good quality food, drink, cocktails and Real Ales. N Bar Without HU17 7AB Tel: 01482 887236
The Potting Shed – located on the edge of Flemingate, good food, upstairs terrace and largest beer garden in Beverley. Great for families and dogs. Entertainment and live music. 50 Flemingate HU17 0NU Tel: 01482 870942
The Cross Keys – A Wetherspoons pub. Great food and drink as always. Outdoor seating. 6-8 Lairgate HU17 8EE
All pubs are dog friendly apart from Wetherspoons.
Restaurants and Posh Nosh
Beverley Arms Hotel – the aforementioned former coaching house situated opposite St Mary’s. Sophisticated boutique five-star inn with fine dining, perfect for cocktails or just a drink. 25 North Bar Within HU17 8DD Tel: 01482 296999
The Westwood Restaurant – listed in the Michelin Guide 2025 and holder of two AA rosettes, elegant surroundings in the grounds of Beverley’s former Georgian courthouse, outdoor seating, great cocktails and food, reservations required. New Walk HU17 7AE Tel: 01482 881999
Chamas Rodizio Bar and Grill – Chic Brazilian Gaucho Eatery with meats served from skewers, a vegan option, a large salad bar and wines. 9-10 Wednesday Market HU17 0DG
Cerutti “2” – Long established family restaurant and Deli specialising in fish and seafood. Station Square, Railway Station HU17 0AS Tel: 01482 866700 or [email protected] Restaurant open Wed to Sat 12noon, last orders 8.30pm. Sunday 12noon, Last orders 2pm.
Plates by Oxalis – Chef David Tait’s fine dining concept inspired by local ingredients. Booking advised. 30-32 Lairgate HU17 8EP Tel: 07903 371039
Mowgli Street Food – 3 North Bar Within HU17 8AP Tel: 01482 241650
Tomahawk Steakhouse – Specialist Steak and restaurant and cocktail bar. 17 Flemingate HU17 0NR Tel: 01482 231330
Just outside Beverley in the lovely village of South Dalton you’ll find The Pipe and Glass Inn – one of Yorkshire’s eight Michelin Star restaurants. And very good it is too! Set next door to the grounds of the Dalton Estate, the views from the (‘entirely edible’) garden and restaurant are stunning. Book for the full Michelin Star experience in restaurant or you can just turn up for an afternoon bite in the bar if there’s a table available, or just have a cocktail, locally brewed beer, or choose from the select wine list. West End, South Dalton HU17 7PN Closed Mondays Book online up to 48 hours in advance or for last minute availability call the Reservations Team on 01430 810246.
Hull, the 2017 UK City of Culture and recently recognised by the National Geographic as one of the top 25 destinations in the world to visit, is just a short train ride or drive away and offers:
Theatres and Venues
Hull New Theatre – Hull’s largest theatre with a varied and – Opened in 1939 with performances taking place throughout the war. Comfortable seating, nice bar area, small restaurant, nearby parking. www.hulltheatres.co.uk Kingston Square HU1 3HF Tel; 01482 300306
Hull Truck Theatre – co-founded by Alan Plater, Artistic Director, John Godber, contemporary theatre with a Northern Voice. 50 Ferensway HU2 8LB Tel: 01482 323638
Hull City Hall – Concert Hall hosting classical concerts, pop concerts, opera, Comedy, Family Events Queen Victoria Square, Carr Lane HU1 3RQ Tel: 01482 300 306
Stage@TheDock – Outdoor location with tiered seats, hosting a diverse range of performances and events. 47 Queen Street HU1 1UU Tel: 01482 320968
Connexin Live, Hull – Large Concert Venue featuring a wide range of performances, comedy and events, food and drink available. Myton Street HU1 2PS connexinlivehull.com
Recommended pubs and restaurants in Hull
Most of the best pubs are to be found around the Marina and in the Old Town. Some of our recommendations are:
The Minerva – Classic, family run pub with great views over the Humber Estuary. Live music and food. Nelson Street HU1 1XE Tel: 01482 210025
The Head of Steam – Craft Beer, food, cocktails, outside seating. Overlooks Hull Minster. 10 King Street HU1 2JJ Tel: 01482 217236
Furley and Co – Good food, pizza, snacks etc, Craft Ale/Cider, Cocktails. Situated on the Quayside with outside space and rear smoking area. 18-20 Princes Dock St HU1 2LP Tel: 01482 229649
Ye Olde White Harte – a must-visit pub in the heart of the Old Town for olde world atmosphere. Steeped in history, the building was constructed in 1550 and has barely changed since with Inglenook fireplaces and oak panels. It houses a myserious skull and is famous for its Plotters Parlour where the civil war to overthrow King Charles 1 was hatched. Real Ales and Guest Beers, Ciders, good wine list and selection of spirits. 25 Silver Street HU1 1JG Tel: 01482 326363
The White Hart – not to be confused with Ye Olde White Harte. Craft Beer, real ales. Food available including Mexican Street Food (not on Mondays). Famous for its iconic bar. 109 Alfred Gelder Street HU1 1EP
Ye Olde Black Boy – famous pub often featured in historical films and TV dramas situated in the Museums Quarter. Fairly small. A range of traditional Pork pies and sausage rolls available at the bar. 150 High Street HU1 1PS Tel: 01482 328140
The Brain Jar – City Centre bar famed for its cocktails and hip vibe. Pizza, Sarnies and Small Plates available. 4-6 Trinity House Lane HU1 2JA
Taphouse Brewpub – Large pub in Humber Street in the heart of the Marina, Bar games, virtual darts, shuffleboard, outdoor seating. Excellent selection of Craft Beer and cocktails. Food Menu. 20 Pier Street HU1 1ZA Tel: 01482 61800
The Old English Gentleman – traditional pub near Hull New Theatre which is often frequented by actors and performers. Lively programme of events, quiz nights and music. Marstons, Cask Ales, Beer Garden. Worship Street HU2 2BG Tel: 01482 324659
Sailmakers – flaminggrillspubs.co.uk Chain pub restaurant serving classic comfort food. St Andrews Quay HU3 4SA
Bar82 – Swish bar with cocktails and dining. Bottomless cocktails and drinks Thu, Fri, Sat and Sun 12pm. 16 Princes Dock Street, HU1 2LP 01482 221221
The Mission – Traditional pub with attached chapel. Situated on the infamously named Dagger Lane. 11-13 Posterngate HU1 2JN Tel: 01482 221187
Restaurants
Hull’s Newland Ave has become a lively dining destination but there are many great dining venues in the centre, and around the Marina.
Santi’s Southern Italian bar & kitchen – Sicilian food including items like lobster ravioli “to die for”. 26-28 Princes Ave Tel: 01482 421548
Swine & Soul – city centre restaurant, Unit 11 Paragon Arcade, 52 Carr Lane HU1 3RF Tel: 01482 611169
SEBU – City Centre Penthouse restaurant, family owned modern casual dining experience with amazing views of Hull. Tapas menu available. Food based on filipino menu. F1 12 K2 Building, 60 Bond Street HU1 3EN Tel: 01482 699076
The Brazilian Churrascaria & Bar – Hull Marina, Brazilian food in vibrant setting. 4-5 Humber Dock Street HU1 1TB Tel: 01482 222260
Hearth Restaurant – City Centre. Described as the ‘best in Hull’. Fresh bakery items, Sunday roast, award winning. 10.5 King Street HU1 2JJ Tel: 01482 429203
Butler Whites – City Centre. Independent restaurant and bar on Humber Street. Special food ranging from classic steaks to 01482 493557Moules Frites. 2-3 Humber Street HU1 1TU Tel:
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant and Bar – Outdoor seating, great cocktails, lovely Italian food. £20-£30 per person. Kingswood Retail Park, Althorp Road HU7 3DA Tel: 01482 820666
The Smoke Room – Smoked Beef Brisket, North Carolina Pulled Pork, Burgers, Mac and Cheese etc 60 Humber Street HU1TU or Willerby, 7 The Square HU10 7UA Tel: 01482 326087 Willerby 01482 935939
Roots Rum Shack and Kitchen – A taste of the Caribbean in Hull, Reggae music and great vibes. 206 Newland Avenue Tel: 01482 440000
Wings International Cuisine – All-you-can-eat restaurant with live cooking stations and superb selection of Chinese, Pizza, Curries, Roasts, Pasta, Sushi, Desserts including a Chocolate fountain. 119 Ferensway (opposite Hull Paragon Station) Tel: 01482 666888
Within a short drive from North Ferriby are some of East Yorkshire’s most impressive stately homes and landscaped gardens.
Aside from parks and riverside walks, families will enjoy:
Nearby animal parks and adventure farms at Bridlington, Sewerby Hall and Hornsea Freeport where you’ll find Bugtopia Zoo and potteries.
If you’re eager to explore beyond North Ferriby, consider:
We hope this guide inspires your adventures and helps you make the most of your time in North Ferriby. Should you have questions or need recommendations, do not hesitate to contact us – there’s always more to uncover in this captivating corner of Yorkshire. Enjoy your stay!
Zoe and Peter
07900 494429