Is the Drake's Circumnavigation program suitable for younger children?

This program is designed for students aged 11 to 16; younger children might find the content and space below decks challenging.

Are there accessibility accommodations for visitors with limited mobility?

Due to the ship’s historic design and narrow spaces, access below deck is limited; please contact The Golden Hinde directly to discuss specific needs.

Can visitors bring bags and backpacks onboard?

Small personal items are allowed, but large bags may need to be stored onshore to keep the ship’s areas safe and uncluttered.

Is photography allowed during the program?

Photography is encouraged on the deck and around the ship, but please be considerate of others during the educational sessions.

What historical periods does the program cover?

The focus is on the Elizabethan era, specifically Francis Drake’s circumnavigation between 1577 and 1580.

Are there pre- and post-visit resources available?

Yes, The Golden Hinde provides educational materials to enhance students’ learning before and after their visit.

Drake's Circumnavigation History Tour by The Golden Hinde | History Tour

Situated on the historic Thames waterfront in London, The Golden Hinde offers a distinctive dive into 16th-century maritime history with its interactive program, Drake's Circumnavigation - KS3/4. This hour-long experience invites students aged 11 to 16 to step aboard one of history's most famous replicas, reliving Francis Drake's epic voyage around the globe. Far from a passive museum visit, this hands-on journey challenges participants to grapple with the complex motivations behind Drake’s expedition and the brutal realities never far from the minds of seafarers in the Elizabethan era.

The Golden Hinde itself is a tangible connection to Tudor England, moored at St Mary Overie's Dock, close to London Bridge. The ship’s timber hull and cramped quarters vividly illustrate the physical challenges Drake’s crew faced, while interactive maps and replica artifacts engage visitors in understanding both navigation and 16th-century colonial ambitions. The program’s carefully designed structure not only encourages critical thinking about imperialism and survival but also fosters historical inquiry and debate, aligning with UK curricula for History KS3/4.

This location uniquely blends outdoor maritime heritage with educational programming, offering a rare window into seafaring life that’s physically immersive—and intellectually demanding. While London bustles around the dock’s edges, inside the replica ship, time slows to the pace of oars and sails, making this a standout destination for history enthusiasts and school groups alike.

For visitors interested in history brought vividly to life paired with the dynamic backdrop of the Thames, The Golden Hinde's signature voyage offers an engaging balance of education, adventure, and reflection. It stands out as both a cultural landmark and an accessible outdoor experience that connects visitors directly with the challenges of exploration and conquest that have shaped the modern world.