FigFlex Hull is the latest location to join our growing family of exciting flexible serviced office centres.
After popping a cork to mark the official opening of FigFlex Hull in September, we decided to explore the North East port city and pick out the best ways to enjoy some midday downtime away from the desk.
Here’s five we think you should know about:
Walk: Hull Waterside & Marina
Despite being so close to the heart of the city centre, FigFlex Hull is blessed with some quiet spots where you can unwind and rack up some steps, such as down by the Waterside & Marina.
Being on the coast has its advantages and a stroll down Ferensway over the £22m Murdoch’s Connection footbridge to Hull Waterside & Marina is an obvious choice.
Its magnificent moored boats and vast open space make it a grand way to grab some headspace away from the screen before attacking what remains of the workday - it’s even better if you have clear skies with the sun bouncing up from the water.
Cafe: Heaven Cafe
We’ve already given a shoutout to two of our favourite Hull coffee spots: Revival and Two Gingers, but with a wealth of quality cafes throughout the city centre, we’ll gladly seize the opportunity to highlight a third: Heaven Cafe, over on Story Street.
Granted, there are no pearly gates and you won’t be greeted by tiny floating angels with mini harps, but you can count on a polite welcome from the two brothers who own this fantastic family-run cafe.
A great cup of coffee is a given and if you’ve got the stomach space, their brilliant breakfast and lunch menus are definitely worth exploring too; American-style blueberry & maple syrup pancakes anyone?...
Retail: St Stephen’s Shopping Centre
With so many shops and stores surrounding FigFlex Hull, it’s a challenge to return from your lunch break without splashing at least some cash. And St Stephen’s Shopping Centre has to take a lot of the blame for that.
It’s the city’s premier shopping destination and it practically sits in the backyard of FigFlex Hull. Mention any well-known retail brand and chances are high they’re here. There’s even a seven-screen cinema too if you fancy squeezing in the latest blockbuster during your lunch break.
St Stephen’s isn’t the only retail therapy opportunity in the vicinity either. Prospect Shopping Centre, Paragon Arcade and Princes Quay all pose a real threat to your bank balance too.
Attraction: Ferens Art Gallery
Mix in some David Hockney with your ham and cheese butty by visiting the Ferens Art Gallery.
Free to enter following a £5.2 million refurb in 2017, it is regarded as one of the most important regional galleries in England with a diverse range of art across its 12 galleries.
Its permanent collection reaches as far back as the medieval period right up to the present day, taking in 18th century works by the likes of Guardi and Canalettoa, as well as paintings, sculpture and photography by contemporary artists including Kossoff and Wearing.
If any of those names mean anything to you, then you’re sure to have a great time at Ferens Art Gallery. And if not, here’s your chance to swat up on some culture.
Bar: Humber Street
We’re going to end on some recommendations from Centre Manager Gary Finch - the guy who makes everything happen at FigFlex Hull.
And rather than a single bar, Gary is widening the possibilities by highlighting an entire street; Humber Street to be precise.
Starting at the top end adjoining Hull Waterside & Marina, there’s Thieving Harry’s, serving cafe fare and craft beer in a unique, rustic space with a down-to-earth vibe.
From there, Taphouse Brewpub should be appealing. This stylish bar is also a working brewery, offering almost 40 draught craft beers, lagers and ciders, plus bottled and canned beers, wines and spirits.
Others worth investigating include Social, and J. Johnson Wine Bar and Bistro.
Category: Community & Culture