Blaydes Maritime Centre

We’re part of the Faculty of Arts, Culture and Education, University of Hull.

We share and create
knowledge about the
connections between
people and the sea.

Hull was one of the
great ports of
medieval England…

…And by the late nineteenth century was the third largest port in Britain. Located in the Georgian home of the Blaydes family, prominent merchants and shipbuilders, Blaydes Maritime Centre has been a leading centre of research in maritime history for over 20 years. In this resonant heritage location, we host events, talks and projects to share the rich story of human interactions with the maritime environment.

About the house

Welcome to Blaydes House: A Place of Business

Welcome to Blaydes House: A Family Home

Blaydes House, a Grade II* listed building, is the finest surviving Georgian merchants’ house in Hull. From medieval times to the nineteenth century, the High Street was the commercial heart of Hull and home to its most important merchant dynasties. Among them were the Blaydes family, who were commodity traders, shipowners and shipbuilders, as well as leading local political figures.