The Golden Hinde, the full-scale reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake’s famous Tudor galleon, is now serving Devon Red and Red Zero from Sandford Orchards on board. The partnership brings together two organisations whose stories are deeply rooted in Devon.
Sir Francis Drake was born near Tavistock and later served as Mayor and MP for Plymouth. The original Golden Hinde departed from Plymouth in 1577 on the first English circumnavigation of the globe, returning three years later after one of the most celebrated voyages in maritime history.
The modern Golden Hinde shares equally strong ties to the county. Built in Appledore, in North Devon, and launched in 1973, the ship sailed extensively around the world before arriving at St Mary Overie Dock in Southwark in 1996. Today, she operates as a museum, educational charity, and cultural venue.
Sandford Orchards is an independent, family-owned cidermaker based in Devon, operating from Britain’s oldest working cider mill. Founded in 2002, they are committed to a natural, low-impact approach, crafting every drop of their cider using locally-grown apples from sustainably-managed orchards.
“Devon is woven through every chapter of The Golden Hinde’s story,” said director of the venture, Roddy Coleman. “From Drake’s birthplace and the original voyage’s departure from Plymouth, to the construction of the modern ship in Appledore, our connection to the county runs deep.
“We’re delighted to be working with Sandford Orchards, and proud to be serving Devon Red aboard the ship. It feels like a natural partnership between two organisations with a shared appreciation for Devon’s history, heritage and craftsmanship.”
Barny Butterfield, founder and chief cidermaker at Sandford Orchards, added: “For us, cider making is about much more than just pressing apples, it’s about preserving the land, the history and the craft that makes Devon so special.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with The Golden Hinde, an organisation that shares our deep respect for heritage. It is a wonderful opportunity to bring a true, honest taste of the West Country to London and share our story with every visitor who steps aboard.”
