Unique London Tourist Attraction: The Golden Hinde – A Museum Ship Telling Vivid Sailing Stories

Among the ships moored along the River Thames, an ancient sailing vessel adorned with a golden stag's head at its bow is sure to catch your eye. This is the attraction we are introducing today with The London Pass: The Golden Hinde.

A full-scale reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake's 16th-century galleon, the magnificent Golden Hinde before us boasts tall masts, aged wooden hues, and a storied history that sparks the imagination.

Originally named The Pelican, this stunning Elizabethan galleon was renamed The Golden Hinde by its captain, Sir Francis Drake, during the voyage. In that era, Captain Drake was considered one of Europe's greatest seamen, with a profound understanding of the unpredictable oceans, keen strategic thinking, and superb naval tactics. In 1588, he led the Golden Hinde and the English fleet to defeat the mighty Spanish Armada.

As a replica of the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe, the Golden Hinde is like a museum brimming with vivid stories, leading visitors to experience the perilous adventures of the 16th century.

Onboard the Golden Hinde, you can follow costumed crew members inside the ship to see its structure and facilities, listen to them recount the vessel's colorful legends, and personally experience what it felt like to sail the vast ocean aboard an Elizabethan ship.

Image source: The Golden Hinde

Address: St Mary Overie Dock, Cathedral Street London SE1 9DE

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 10am – 5pm

Admission: £5, free with The London Pass