The Avenues are a unique residential area in Hull that’s always in very high demand. As the name suggests, it’s composed of four long avenues (Marlborough, Westbourne, Park and Victoria) that run between Princes Avenue and Chanterlands Avenue, each lined with tall trees and presenting handsome Victorian properties that are a real treat to behold.
From large family homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, to apartments and shared accommodation at the heart of a beautiful Conservation Area, there’s no wonder that the Avenues have remained hugely popular over the decades.
Originally built for the middle classes in the late 19th century, the Avenues were designed with large decorative fountains at the centre of each road. Only those down Westbourne Avenue and Park Avenue remain and they now hold listed status, making them even more special.
The grand trees that line the Avenues are adored by residents and visitors alike. The first to be planted here were sycamore, common lime and horse chestnut, with each tree spaced equally and the same species usually planted opposite each other. This creates a very calming effect, which combined with grass verges and well-kept gardens makes for a very appealing walk.
Over the decades, the Avenues diversified to include apartments and single rooms within shared properties alongside larger homes. This made it more accessible to a variety of budgets and the area is particularly popular with academics, theatre-makers, artists and left wing intellectuals. As a result, the Avenues are affectionately referred to as the city’s Muesli Belt.
On average, the Avenues are about two miles by road from Paragon Interchange. This makes for a very short drive, plus you can easily cycle to Hull City Centre in 10 minutes and walk there in about 35 minutes.
There are also East Yorkshire and Stagecoach buses available from Princes Avenue and Chanterlands Avenue throughout the day and late into the night, as well as a black cab rank and taxi offices on Princes Avenue.
One of the best things about living on the Avenues is that you have Pearson Park practically on your doorstep. This attractive Victorian Park has very recently undergone a comprehensive regeneration project, making it the perfect spot for exercise, leisurely walks, feeding the ducks, playing with the kids, and taking in the peaceful surroundings of the large conservatory and wildlife garden.
Artlink on Princes Avenue is a fabulous community arts organisation that hosts a wide-ranging programme of exhibitions and events. You’ll also find an impressive selection of independent retailers, high street grocery stores and charity shops in this area, especially if you venture a little further onto Newland Avenue.
Princes Avenue is one of Hull’s most popular spots for eating and drinking. Your taste buds are spoilt for choice thanks to restaurants such as El Toro, Marrakech Avenue, Da Gianna, Bengal Lounge and Rupert & Darwin, not to mention the countless desserts at Caffe Gelato.
Then there are the many pubs and bars that offer a range of environments and tipples, from live music at Pave and pints at Queens Hotel, to the truly fantastic selection of world beers at 80 Days Bier Haus.
