When I was at school we were taught the history of Sir Francis Drake and his adventures aboard the sailing ship, the Golden Hinde. More than 450 years ago (in 1577) he set sail from Plymouth in this galleon in an attempt to circumnavigate the world. On his return in 1581 the boat was so loaded down with the spoils of treasures looted from Spanish ships that each member of the crew became the equivalent of a modern day millionaire. For his services to his country, Queen Elizabeth I knighted Drake on board his ship and insisted that it was preserved at Deptford as a commemoration of his deeds. Unfortunately it didn't survive, but we can visit an exact replica at St Mary Overie Dock in Southwark.
The Golden Hinde
The craft can be hired for children's pirate birthday parties, family Tudor inspired sleepovers, weddings and corporate events, and is also used for maritime workshops, guided tours and educational teaching. This ship has also circumnavigated the world, so is far more than a floating museum.
Inside the Ship's Hold
The Golden Hinde is berthed at St Mary Overie Dock, close to Southwark Cathedral and London Bridge Station.
Some Sixteenth Century Trivia
Unfortunately you can't reach the boat by water from the Thames these days, but you can take the train to London Bridge station, or bus routes 17, 21, 22A, 35, 40, 43, 44, 47, 48, 95, 133, 149, 214, 501, 505, 510, 513, D1, P3, P11.
