Statue of Francis Drake

Monument Statue commemorating explorer Francis Drake

On Plymouth Hoe a statue commemorates Sir Francis Drake and overlooks Plymouth Sound. Visitors combine the monument with coastal walks, naval history sites and views toward the Mayflower Steps.

Main image

The Statue of Francis Drake is a public monument in Plymouth, England, commemorating the 16th-century sea captain Sir Francis Drake. It occupies a prominent position on the town’s waterfront promenade.

The statue is set on Plymouth Hoe, a large public open space that overlooks Plymouth Sound. The site is commonly visited for coastal views and to see local memorials and civic monuments clustered on the Hoe.

Erected to commemorate the life and naval career of Sir Francis Drake, the statue reflects Plymouth’s maritime history and its historical association with Drake’s voyages. It has been a fixed feature of the Hoe’s collection of monuments for generations.

Situated on Plymouth Hoe in the city of Plymouth, the statue looks out over Plymouth Sound on England’s southwest coast and is within easy walking distance of central Plymouth.

  • Prominent siting: Located on Plymouth Hoe with direct views over Plymouth Sound and the English Channel, making it a prominent local landmark.
Statue of Francis Drake
50.3653, -4.1429

How to Get to Statue of Francis Drake #

Typically reached on foot from the town’s waterfront and parking areas. Nearest major transport hubs depend on the specific coastal town; local bus or regional rail services often serve the main center.

Tips for Visiting Statue of Francis Drake #

  • The statue is in a public square; early morning is best for unobstructed photographs.
  • Local maritime museums often have context about Drake's role in local naval history-visit them for fuller interpretation.
  • Respect any ceremonial uses-plinths and surrounding railings can be sites for wreath-laying.

Best Time to Visit Statue of Francis Drake #

Spring and summer are both good-spring for quiet, summer for broader coastal activity.

Spring (Mar-May)
Mar-May · 8-15°C (46-59°F)
Mild weather and fewer tourists make it comfortable to stroll maritime promenades.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Jun-Aug · 15-20°C (59-68°F)
Warmer weather and peak visitor season; best for pairing with coastal walks.

Weather & Climate near Statue of Francis Drake #

Climate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
25°
Warmest Month
-4°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions

January

Weather

0.1
UV Index
Low
8.4h daylight

February

Weather

0.2
UV Index
Low
9.9h daylight

March

Weather

0.4
UV Index
Low
11.7h daylight

April

Weather

0.9
UV Index
Moderate
13.6h daylight

May

Weather

1.3
UV Index
High
15.3h daylight

June

Weather

1.5
UV Index
Very High
16.2h daylight

July

Weather

1.4
UV Index
High
15.7h daylight

August

Weather

1.2
UV Index
High
14.3h daylight

September

Weather

0.8
UV Index
Moderate
12.5h daylight

October

Weather

0.3
UV Index
Low
10.6h daylight

November

Weather

0.1
UV Index
Low
8.8h daylight

December

Weather

0.1
UV Index
Low
7.9h daylight

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