The Old Pubs of Hessle Road

Researched 10 October 2026 · A growing community archive

Vauxhall Tavern - 1 Hessle Road

Historic England records the Vauxhall as already in existence by 1814, with origins in the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century. Its Grade II listed building has pale brick upper floors, distinctive bow windows and a frontage altered over time. Today, the Vauxhall Tavern and cafe are part of the Hull Creative Skills and Heritage CIC project, alongside plans for a heritage centre and creative workshops.

Alexandra Hotel - 69 Hessle Road

Built around 1895, the Grade II listed Alexandra is one of the road's most ornate pub buildings. Its tiled frontage, decorative gables and corner entrance reward a closer look. Historic England records surviving interior details including etched glass, ornamental ceilings and a mahogany back-bar fitting with a clock.

Criterion Hotel - 222 Hessle Road

Historic England dates this Grade II listed pub to around 1860, with later alterations. Its rounded corner, contrasting yellow and red brickwork and arched windows distinguish it from its neighbours. The illustration draws on an exterior photograph and is a painted interpretation of the building.

Rayners - 325 Hessle Road

Formerly called the Star & Garter, Rayners has a strong association with Hull's fishermen, documented by CAMRA. Its substantial red-brick corner building is part of the road's familiar streetscape. Names, photographs and personal memories can help us build a fuller account of its landlords, customers and community life.

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Research sources & illustration notes

A first selection of four main-road pubs. Building dates are distinct from the first licensed use of a site. The paintings are interpretations guided by building photographs. Criterion and Rayners reference photographs: Bernard Sharp, Geograph, CC BY-SA 2.0. Changes include illustration style and composition. This pub artwork and its web adaptations are shared under CC BY-SA 2.0.