Sir Francis Drake: The Devon Explorer Who Sailed Around the World
Born in Tavistock, Devon, Sir Francis Drake became one of England's most celebrated explorers and the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe.
By West Country Escapes
When it comes to famous West Country figures, few names are as legendary as Sir Francis Drake.
Born in Tavistock, Devon, around 1540, Drake became one of England's most celebrated explorers, sea captains and naval heroes. His remarkable adventures took him across oceans, around continents and into the history books, making him one of the most influential figures of the Elizabethan age.
Today, visitors exploring Devon can still discover the places that shaped one of Britain's greatest explorers.
A Devon Childhood
Drake was born near Tavistock, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, an area renowned for its rugged landscapes, open moorland and adventurous spirit.
Growing up in Devon, he was surrounded by a region deeply connected to the sea. The ports and harbours of the South West would inspire a generation of sailors and explorers who helped shape Britain's maritime history.
The First Englishman to Circumnavigate the Globe
Between 1577 and 1580, Drake led an expedition that became one of the most famous voyages in history.
Sailing aboard the Golden Hind, he became the first Englishman to successfully circumnavigate the globe. His journey covered more than 36,000 miles and returned vast treasures to England.
The achievement transformed Drake into a national hero and secured his place among the world's greatest explorers.
Defender of England
Drake's reputation grew further during the conflict with Spain.
In 1588, he played a key role in helping defeat the Spanish Armada, protecting England from invasion and becoming a symbol of courage and leadership.
Following Drake's Footsteps in Devon
Visitors to Devon can still explore Drake's connections to the county.
Highlights include:
- Tavistock, his birthplace
- Plymouth, where many of his voyages began
- Plymouth Hoe, home to the famous Drake statue
- Dartmoor, whose landscapes helped shape his adventurous spirit
A Lasting Legacy
More than four centuries after his death, Sir Francis Drake remains one of the West Country's greatest legends.
His story reflects the adventurous spirit, resilience and ambition that continue to define Devon today.
Whether you're exploring Plymouth's historic waterfront or wandering the wild landscapes of Dartmoor, you'll find traces of the explorer who helped put Devon on the world map.