Nelson's Ship in a Bottle: London’s Hidden Gem Part 3

P.S. This is just the miniature version! You can witness the massive full-sized masterpiece when you visit the site in person

Hello again, fellow adventurers! Are you ready for another discovery in our London Hidden Gems series? Because today, I’m taking you to something truly unique—a giant ship trapped in a bottle!

Now, this is the third gem in our series, and trust me, it’s one you don’t want to miss. Nestled just outside the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich is Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle. Sounds intriguing, right? Let’s dive into this nautical wonder.

This isn’t your ordinary ship in a bottle. Created by the incredibly talented artist Yinka Shonibare MBE, it’s a stunning 1:30 scale replica of HMS Victory, the flagship of Admiral Nelson. What makes it extra special is the sails—they’re not the plain old white you’d expect. Instead, they’re crafted from vibrant, Dutch Wax printed fabrics, inspired by African textiles. It’s like history meets modern art, blending stories from different parts of the world into one masterpiece.

A little backstory: this piece was originally displayed in Trafalgar Square back in 2010 as part of the Fourth Plinth Commission. It stayed there until 2012 before finding its permanent home outside the Sammy Offer Wing of the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.

Seeing it up close is such a delight. The level of detail is mind-blowing—the tiny rigging, the colorful sails, and even the way it’s encased in a massive glass bottle. It’s like a whimsical tribute to the stories of the sea, and it feels so fitting to have it in Greenwich, a place steeped in maritime history.

If you’re in the area, make sure you take a little detour to see it. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just someone who loves quirky finds, this gem will leave you amazed. And while you’re there, why not explore the rest of Greenwich? It’s such a charming area with so much to offer.

That’s it for today’s hidden gem. I hope you’re loving this series as much as I am enjoying sharing it with you. Stick around because there are plenty more treasures to uncover in this incredible city.

Until next time, happy exploring!