Offering a unique insight into life on board Sir Francis Drakes 16th century sailing ship.
Located at the old fishing port of Brixham is The Golden Hind, a full sized and permanently moored replica of one of the most iconic exploration ships and a landmark tourist attraction in the town since 1964.
Sir Francis Drake was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe when he sailed the Golden Hind between 1577 and 1580. He was a soldier, seaman, politician and engineer who was best known as an explorer using this famous ship which was originally known as Pelican but was renamed by Drake in 1578. On his expedition of discovery only 56 of the original 80 men survived alongside him when they returned after the three year voyage.
Through the replica's five decks it tells the story of the life and times of the captain and crew along with conditions at sea during the 1600s through various exhibitions, re-enactments and interactive sessions. The idea is to allow visitors to really experience the sights, sounds and smells of life aboard a Tudor ship.
The replica includes the Captain's and Officer's cabins which slept up to 60 men, as well as the tools, cannons and weapons from the era. There is also the full original crew list of the men who were on board The Golden Hind when it set sail.
The Golden Hind replica has also been used as a filming location for many films, dramas, documentaries and children’s programmes, and can even be booked as a unique wedding venue.