Adventure Collective
Drake's Circumnavigation History Tour by The Golden Hinde - London

Drake's Circumnavigation History Tour by The Golden Hinde

London•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required but some mobility needed to navigate ship's narrow decks

Overview

Step aboard The Golden Hinde in London for an immersive 16th-century seafaring journey. Drake’s Circumnavigation - KS3/4 invites young learners to engage critically with history in a uniquely interactive setting.

London, Greater London

Drake's Circumnavigation - KS3/4

KS3/4 (ages 11-16) • 1 hour • Immersive learning

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About This Adventure

Dive into the thrilling world of 16th-century seafaring with an interactive exploration of Francis Drake’s circumnavigation aboard The Golden Hinde. This engaging hour-long program challenges students to critically examine the voyage's motivations and the harsh realities faced by mariners, enhancing their historical inquiry and debate skills.

Get to grips with the history surrounding Francis Drake’s circumnavigation and uncover the challenges of life at sea in the 16th century!

Duration

1 hour

What to expect

Utilising interactive maps, replica handling sessions and a guided exploration of The Golden Hinde, Drake’s Circumnavigation is our most popular 1-hour programme for KS3/4.

Students will be asked to think critically about the motivations behind the voyage, before heading below deck to get a sense of the reality of early modern seafaring.

Pupils will also be provided with our pre- and post-visit resources, designed to encourage them to get the most out of their visit.

Learning Objectives

To understand the motivations behind Drake’s circumnavigation and its impact on the early modern world. To utilise the environment of the ship and its replica collection to gain a clear understanding of the difficulties and dangers faced by 16th century mariners. To develop historical skills of enquiry, comparison, and debate.

  • AQA
  • Paper 2 - Shaping the Nation:
  • Unit BC Elizabethan England, c. 1568 - 1603
  • Edexcel
  • Paper 2 - Period Study and British Depth Study
  • Unit B4: Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88
  • OCR
  • History B
  • Component Group 1: The Elizabethans, 1580—1603

Adventure Tips

Pre-book to secure your slot

This popular educational program often fills quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.

Prepare for confined spaces

The ship’s narrow decks and below-deck areas can feel tight; suitable for those comfortable with limited space.

Wear comfortable footwear

The wooden decks can be uneven and slippery—flat, closed-toed shoes are best for safety and comfort.

Arrive early for orientation

Arriving 10-15 minutes early allows time to familiarize yourself with the dock area and visitor center.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Mute swans gliding along the Thames
  • Urban foxes occasionally spotted near the dock at dusk

History

Francis Drake’s circumnavigation was the first completed by an Englishman, marking a significant chapter in maritime and imperial history during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign.

Conservation

The Golden Hinde’s preservation and educational mission foster awareness of maritime heritage while promoting sustainable tourism in the Thames riverfront district.

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Adventure Hotspots in London

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable flat shoes

Essential

Flat shoes with good grip help safely maneuver uneven wooden decks.

Weather-appropriate outerwear

Essential

Layers or waterproof jackets ensure comfort given London's variable weather.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Notebook and pen

Useful for jotting down insights or questions during the interactive program.

Camera or smartphone

Capture details of the ship and the scenic riverside setting.