This Bass pub is another that is well placed in the heart of old
Hull. It dates back to the late 1700s, though the complex history of the site stretches back much
further (info from the Local History Unit). It was initially called the
Excise Coffee House.
Just outside the pub lies, arguably, one of the best photo
opportunities to be had anywhere. The building just visible in the left of the photo is Holy
Trinity Church. And on the opposite side of Market Place is a building with a smoked, reflective,
glass facade. The photo of one reflected in the other is fast becoming a classic image of
Hull.
The Corn Exchange has recently been given a major make-over. This
provided a new and rather more welcoming front entrance. Inside, the changes have been more
extensive, and the effect has been to open out the old separate areas into a larger space.
These changes have not been welcomed by some in Hull who feel the
historic structure and integrity of the pub has been damaged. We understand their concern, but
would have to say that in many ways the interior of the Corn Exchange is now more attractive and
welcoming than it used to be; with a lot of light coloured wood and some nice attention to detail.
Overall this is a quality conversion, and there are many worse things a brewery could do to a pub.
(And you don't have to look very hard in Hull to see some of them).
