Golden Hinde

Sail through history aboard the Golden Hinde, a full-scale reproduction of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th-century ship on London’s South Bank.

Step aboard the Golden Hinde with Go City®

• With us, there are no entry fees on the day – all you've got to do is show your pass.
• Explore the vessel to discover what life on board an Elizabethan galleon was like and learn about naval commander Drake’s life at sea.
• Interact with the ship’s costumed crew, who will regale you with tales of derring-do on the high seas!

Visit this living-history museum for an insight into Sir Francis Drake’s exploits as captain of the Golden Hinde in the 16th Century.

Drake is widely considered to be one of the greatest seafarers of his time. His epic expeditions elevated him to legendary status in England. Overseas, however, he was feared and reviled as a pirate and slave trader. Indeed his skills as a naval commander so terrified his enemies that many suspected him of witchcraft, even of being in league with the devil.

The Hinde was instrumental in Drake’s defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, thwarting their attempt to launch an invasion on England.

Step back into that era as you explore this faithful reconstruction, with its 22 cannons, carved golden figurehead and towering masts, all handcrafted using traditional techniques and materials. That commitment to authenticity continues right down to tiny details including the bottles of scented water Drake was known to have used. 

Take a seat at the captain’s table and discover how the crew lived in cramped conditions below deck – crew members in period costume will be on hand to bring the ship’s story to life and answer any questions you have.

Golden Hinde highlights

Meet the crew - costumed crew members are all hands on deck to bring the Golden Hinde’s story to life

Fire power - 22 carefully reconstructed cannons on board give an insight into how Drake achieved the 1588 defeat of the Spanish Armada

Golden figurehead - look out for the carved figurehead depicting the golden hind that gave the ship its name