The greatest British explorers, adventurers and those that boldly went where no man had even thought of going before! We’ve tracked down their blue plaques so you have a chance to follow in their footsteps (at least some of the way).
Captain James Cook
1728 – 1779
Probably the greatest British explorer of all time, he is commemorated on no less than four blue plaques. But then he was European to discover the Eastern coastline of Australia and the Sandwich Islands now known as the pacific islands of Hawaii. He also circumnavigated the globe at a very high southern latitude, becoming the first person to cross the Antarctic Circle and the first explorer to circumnavigate Antarctica.
Inscription: “James Cook lodged and studied in the attic of this house, home of Quaker shipowner John Walker, to whom he was apprenticed (1746-1749) and whom he served until 1755.”
Location: Grape Lane, Whitby
Follow in Captain Cook’s footsteps…
YHA Whitby has a breath-taking coastal location with unbelievable views over the town and harbour. Situated 199 steps up from the cobbled quayside, the Youth Hostel is close to quirky seaside shops, Michelin starred restaurants and sleek cocktail bars.
The historic building itself is right next to the famous ruined Whitby Abbey, which is free to explore for guests – just ask at reception on arrival. You’ll be staying right on the headland inside the Grade 1 listed building Abbey House. If you’re looking for atmosphere, you don’t get more so than YHA Whitby; St Mary’s church and graveyard is opposite, made famous by Bram Stoker’s Dracula and the Whitby and Captain Cook museums are close by.
Sir Francis Drake
1540 – 1596
Francis is a great British explorer, who was on the first voyage that discovered America (the New World). He was also the first Englishman (and third explorer) to circumnavigate the World.
Inscription: “Sir Francis Drake in the year of the Spanish Armada owned a house and ground upon this site, and probably resided here.”
Location: Peacock Lance, Plymouth
Follow in Sir Francis Drake’s footsteps…
YHA Dartmoor is the perfect spot to get away from it all for an outdoor activity break! The hostel is surrounded by the open moorland and forest of Dartmoor National Park, with access to a network of off-road routes for walking and cycling holidays – it’s a comfortable, child-friendly, rural retreat and provides a perfect base for family rambles. The famous Dartmoor ponies often pay us a visit from the open moorland – always a favourite with visiting children!
Robert Falcon Scott
1868 – 1912
Undertook the “Discovery” Polar Expedition and made what is considered to be one of the most important discoveries of polar exploration – the Polar Plateau. He was also the first British explorer to reach the South Pole.
Inscription: “Captain R.F. Scott 1868 – 1912 Antarctic Explorer. Here on 13th June 1910 Captain Robert Falcon Scott C.V.O., R.N. and the men of his British Antarctic Exhibition 1910-13 attended their last public banquet before departing on 15th June 1910 from Cardiff aboard the ‘Terra Nova’ beginning their journey to the South Pole. The Captain Scott Room is preserved in their memory.”
Location: 88 St Mary Street, Cardiff
Follow in Robert Falcon Scott’s footsteps…
YHA Brecon Beacons is perfect if you’re looking for Brecon Beacons accommodation for a cheap family break. This cosy 19th Century farmhouse is set in a tranquil position with access to some of the best walking in Wales. The hostel is in 15 acres of ancient woodland, overlooking the River Tarell with views towards Y Gyrn – great countryside for a walking or cycling holiday. In summer, take a guided walk or mountain safety course at the nearby Brecon Beacons Visitor Centre. Tasty home-cooked food and Brecon Brewery ales are served at the hostel.
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