Polar Bear Music Club, Hull

Polar Bear Music Club, Hull occupies the Grade II-designated former Polar Bear pub at 229 Spring Bank, with room for 200 people. Freeman, Son & Gaskell rebuilt the premises in 1895 and refitted them in 1922, creating a domed orchestra area beside the main bar. Dalton produced the ceramic-fronted counter, one of fourteen surviving examples in the UK. A taxidermist’s collection, known as a zoo, once filled the building, which stands opposite the former Hull Zoological Gardens and a short walk from the city’s creative bohemian quarter.

The pub closed during the pandemic and entered administration in July 2020. Community fundraising helped preserve its furnishings and equipment, and Hull residents supported a crowdfunding drive in 2021. The venue reopened for music on 24 August 2021 and is operated as a community interest company. Its sound system has OHM speakers, monitors and a drum sub.

Since 2002, The Sesh has hosted weekly performances by new and unsigned artists, including local and touring acts. Wired takes place on Saturdays, while Polar Bear Jazz Club holds a monthly event. The programme also includes free-entry nights, comedy and live music. The Basstrix and LEG~IT! have promoted events at the club; performers include Twelve Step Audio, Tsa and Yogi. David Bowie once gave a mime performance at the pub.