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The Golden Hinde

Replicas of Francis Drake's ship, in which he sailed around the world, 1577 - 1581, can be seen at Brixham Harbour in Devon, and in the Pool of London. On its return Golden Hinde became a symbol of English prestige. It was on the quarter deck of Golden Hinde that Queen Elizabeth knighted Drake. Elizabeth then handed the sword to the agent of the French Duke Alencon, with whom she was engaged in diplomatic flirting. Being handed the sword was a great honour for the French delegation, and a symbolic move against Spain. Drake had harried Spanish ships all over the world, and even in harbour Golden Hinde continued to play a symbolic role in England's struggle. Golden Hinde continues as a symbol of England today.

The original ship was on display for about a hundred years in Debtford following Drake's circumnavigation. Eventually this ship rotted away and was broken up. All that remains of the original Golden Hinde is a chair reputed to be carved from its timbers. This chair can be seen in the Great Hall, Buckland Abbey, Devon.

 

Opening Times: The London ship is a living history museum offering a range of educational events, which include tours, workshops and the opportunity to stay on board overnight on an imaginary voyage. The London replica is a seaworthy ship and essential maintainance to keep her that way can lead to unexpected closures. Opening times are 10am until 6pm, with last tickets sold at 5pm. Contact the ship before your visit.

The Brixham ship is open March to October, seven days a week. It runs its own educational programme. Opening hours are generally 10am - 4pm. Educational viewing might be available outside the normal opening period.

Directions: The London replica is birthed in Clink Street, Southwark. Click here for an interactive map centred on the Golden Hinde.

Directions: Brixham is on the south coast of Devon near Torquay. From the M5 take the A38 and the the A380. Click here for an interactive map centred on Brixham Harbour.

 

Access is difficult on both ships for people with mobility problems.

Contact:

phone: for Brixham 01803 856223, for Pool of London 020 7403 0123

web site for London replica: www.goldenhinde.org

web site for Brixham replica: www.goldenhind.co.uk