One of London's most beloved maritime landmarks, The Golden Hinde in Southwark, is receiving a significant makeover to celebrate three decades docked on the Thames. The full-scale replica of Sir Francis Drake's legendary galleon is having its starboard side extensively refurbished as part of an ongoing £4 million refitting project that began in 2017.
A Living History Lesson Gets Refreshed
For countless Londoners who grew up within the M25, a school trip to The Golden Hinde represents a core childhood memory. The immersive living history experience, complete with costumed guides, taught generations about the original Elizabethan galleon that became the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe. After 30 years of welcoming visitors and school groups, the vessel requires essential maintenance to ensure it remains shipshape for future generations.
The current refurbishment work will see the starboard side of the ship carefully repaired and restored. In a commitment to both authenticity and sustainability, the project will primarily use local materials including English oak, elm, and ash trees, with the exception of Congolese iroko wood where specifically required. The ship will remain open to visitors throughout the refurbishment period, with completion expected by autumn 2026.
Celebrating Three Decades in London
To mark this important anniversary, the museum is launching the 30 Years in the Dock Memory Project. This community-focused initiative will gather photographs and personal stories from former crew members, alumni, local residents, and visitors who have engaged with the ship since it first docked at St Mary Overie Dock in 1996.
Roddy Coleman, The Golden Hinde's director, emphasised the dual purpose of the anniversary celebrations: "This anniversary is a moment to reflect on that legacy – but more importantly, to ensure the ship remains here for future generations to enjoy."
From High Seas to London Landmark
For those unfamiliar with this piece of London's nautical heritage, The Golden Hinde is a full-scale replica of Sir Francis Drake's Elizabethan galleon. Launched in 1973, this remarkable vessel itself has an impressive seafaring history, having sailed over 100,000 miles across the world's oceans before finding its permanent home nestled between Southwark Bridge and London Bridge.
Today, the ship serves as a floating museum and educational resource, offering visitors an immersive experience that transports them back to the 16th century and the era of global exploration. The current refurbishment ensures that this unique London attraction will continue to educate and inspire for many years to come.
