The Golden Hinde Named Flagship of the Year 2026
The Golden Hinde has been named a Flagship of the Year for 2026 by National Historic Ships UK, recognising her outstanding contribution to maritime heritage and public engagement.
Each year, National Historic Ships UK selects a small number of vessels from across the country to act as ambassadors for the historic ships sector. As a 2026 Flagship, The Golden Hinde will “fly the flag” for maritime heritage through its programme of events, learning experiences and community activity.
The award comes at a significant moment for the ship, which is celebrating 30 years at St Mary Overie Dock on Bankside. Since arriving in 1996, The Golden Hinde has welcomed millions of visitors on board, offering immersive experiences that bring Tudor seafaring and the story of Sir Francis Drake’s circumnavigation to life.
Today, the ship continues to play a vital role as a heritage attraction and learning space, welcoming over 30,000 visitors each year alongside a wide range of schools, families and community groups.
National Historic Ships UK highlighted the ship’s strong programme of public engagement, including workshops, events and educational activities, as well as her central London location, which provides a unique platform to reach new audiences and raise awareness of maritime heritage.
Alongside The Golden Hinde, three other vessels have been selected as Flagships of the Year for 2026:
- Hydrogen (1906 Spritsail Barge, Maldon)
- Redshank (1936 Narrowboat, Bristol)
- Sea Scamp (1936 Racing Yacht, Southampton)
Each Flagship will receive a ceremonial broad pennant and engraved plaque, and will host a flag-hoisting event to mark the award.
The Golden Hinde will celebrate her Flagship status with a special ceremony aboard the ship on Tuesday 12 May, where the pennant will be raised in the presence of invited guests including local representatives and supporters of the ship. This recognition forms part of a wider anniversary year for both The Golden Hinde and National Historic Ships UK, which celebrates its own 20th anniversary in 2026.
We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition in such a significant anniversary year for the ship. Visitors are warmly invited to come aboard, see the Flagship pennant flying at the masthead, and discover the stories, people and experiences that continue to bring The Golden Hinde to life.
