Built in 1869 the Cutty Sark was built to ship vast quantities of valuable tea from China to the European mainland. At the time she was built she was one the fastest ship in the world and could outrun many a vessel on her day.
The Cutty Sark rather strangely takes its name from a Robert Burns character known as Tam O'shanter, who witnessed a beautiful witch dancing in a short petticoat. Completely spellbound by the dancing he shouted out “weel done Cutty Sark” which is Scottish for a short undergarment or chemise.
Preserved in her own special dry dock near to the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Observatory, the Cutty Sark stands majestically and has been wowing visitors since 1954. At present the Cutty Sark is undergoing refurbishment and is not open to the public. However it is due to open again in early 2012.
Previous visitors will testify that a look round the Cutty Sark will give tourists an excellent insight into what life was like on board a working clipper. Step inside and take a look at the master's accommodation in the 'Liverpool house' which also included accommodation for the first and second mates as well as the ships steward. The aft deck house which was home to the petty officers, boatswain (pronounced bo'son) and the ships cook and the forward deck house was the accommodation for the rest of the ships crew.
As the Cutty Sark is very close to National Maritime Museum and the Royal Greenwich Observatory it is certainly well worth a visit. You can follow the progression of the refurbishment programme by checking the official website.
Contact Details
Cutty Sark
King William Walk
Greenwich
London
SE10 1RQ
020 8858 3445
enquiries@cuttysark.org.uk
Cost
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