The Golden Hinde

★ 4.4 (1,738)$ · Budget-friendly

This replica of the Golden Hinde, the ship Sir Francis Drake used to circumnavigate the globe between 1577 and 1580, was built in the 1970s and has sat in its Bankside dock near Southwark Cathedral for so long that it's become a familiar fixture for anyone walking the South Bank. Reviewers with a 4.4 rating describe it as a fun, hands-on visit for kids especially, who can explore the decks, cannons and cramped quarters, though some note it's a well-worn attraction rather than a polished museum experience. It's a budget-friendly, low-key stop best suited to families or anyone with a soft spot for maritime history walking between London Bridge and the Globe.

✨ Reasons to go

1It's a full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake's ship that circumnavigated the globe between 1577 and 1580.
2The replica was built in the 1970s and has occupied its Bankside dock near Southwark Cathedral ever since.
3Visitors can freely climb through the decks, cannons and cramped quarters rather than view them behind glass.

💡 Good to know

1Bring kids specifically, since the appeal is mostly in letting them clamber around the decks and cannons
2keep expectations modest, as several reviewers note it shows its age compared to bigger attractions
3combine it with nearby Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market on a South Bank walk.

⏱️ Typical visit

25 min

🕰️ Best time

morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening

🚶 Walking intensity

Easy pace

📍

Address

St Mary Overie's Dock, Cathedral St, London SE1 9DE, UKGoogle Apple

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Booking

Walk-in

What people say

"It’s an ok attraction albeit a very recognizable one because it’s been in that spot for decades and it’s impossible to miss while walking the south bank. Kids have good fun in the museum since they have some interactive experiences like feeding the cannon balls. Worth mentioning this is not the real ship but a replica."

— Shop Owner Tips

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