Access and Facilities

We welcome families, groups and those visiting alone.The attraction is a life size authentic replica ship, there are therefore some steeper than normal staircases (there are no lifts) and access is via a wooden gangplank.The ship also has some uneven wooden floors & restricted headroom, meaning that for some visitors with impaired mobility, the Golden Hind may not be the most suitable of attractions to visit.

Access

The ship offers very limited access for wheelchair users and those with severely restricted mobility.If we are notified in advance, we will arrange for a personal guide to share information about the ship in the most appropriate way from the entrance deck for those unable to access other parts of the ship or from the Harbour Side, if a visitor is unable to board the ship.

Our team are on hand to help people getting on and off the ship. For any visitors with mobility restrictions we will discuss their needs and help any visitors who decide that they are able to board the attraction with some assistance. We can also offer a fast-track service to get on board where a visitor is unable to stand in a queue, please contact us in advance of a visit to arrange this.

There are public benches adjacent to the ship but no designated seating areas on board, a member of the team will help where necessary if a seat is needed whilst on board.

We ask visitors to take notice of the signs on board, some of which contain important safety information. For visually impaired visitors, a member of the team will talk them through the safety information where required.

Assistance and all other small well behaved dogs on leads are welcome on board.

As part of the visitor experience, lighting is atmospheric which includes low but adequate display and floor lighting. There is no strobe lighting and there are no areas in total darkness.

The Safety and Hazard information may also be helpful as it contains detailed information about areas of the ship such as the entrance and decks.

Under 16s

We are fully committed to ensuring that children visiting are protected and kept safe from harm and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The ship is not suitable for pushchairs.Pushchairs may be left with a member of the team at the kiosk whilst on board. Visitors are responsible for supervising their children at all times and are reminded of the safety requirements particularly when carrying babies or young children. Any children who become separated from their adults can go to the onboard shop where a member of the team will help to reunite them with their parents/guardians.

Facilities

There are a number of cafes and restaurants in the near vicinity to the ship. The nearest of which is the 'Old Market House' next to the entrance to the ship which has ramp access and toilets with wheelchair access on the ground floor. There is also a lift for wheelchairs up to the first floor restaurant area.

Hiring

If you are considering hiring the ship for a private function, please contact us to discuss any special needs and if / how these can be accommodated.

Happy to Help

We deal with enquiries about access and facilities, by telephone and email.We will be happy to discuss visitor’s special requirements and to give an honest appraisal of the ship’s suitability for any visitors with special needs and, what help can be provided.