Pirate Education

Our rich, controversial and thrilling history

Teachers may be aware that Michael Gove urged schools to place more emphasis on teaching the West Country's "rich, controversial and thrilling" history. 

The Education Secretary said that activities such as walking tours around Bristol's Harbourside provide children the opportunity to engage first-hand with "the physical remains of the story of England", educating them about their local history in a fun and inspiring way and encouraging them to "delve further" into their studies. 

Pirate Walks: History through an Eyepatch

Pirate Walks has provided bespoke educational tours for over 800 schools since the year 2000, when we were awarded a Prince's Trust Grant to educate and inform West Country children of their maritime heritage. 

Our tours specifically focus on the fascinating history of Bristol's Pirates, tales of Blackbeard, Long John Silver, Robinson Crusoe and Treasure Island really capture the imagination of children while offering rich and wide-ranging educational opportunities.

Key features of Pirate Walks include:

• Tours personally tailored to individual requirements.  Dates/times/topics agreed in line with schools needs.  Walks normally take 90 minutes - see our map for locations.
• All age groups catered for
• CRB checked guides, public liability insurance and risk assessment forms provided
• Walks can be combined with other educational activities, such as visits to the award winning 
• MShed, ss Great Britain, Bristol Aquarium or even a trip on The Matthew
• Additional historical elements such as Bristol's part in the Slave Trade can be incorporated into the tour, depending on curricular requirements
• History quiz for all pupils taking part, with a prize for the winner
• Lucky dip in Pirate Pete's Treasure Chest for all attendees
• Fun photo opportunities - dressing up encouraged!
• If a tour is not suitable, we can also visit your school to give a live pirate presentation.