Bristol's Voyage of Discovery

A reconstruction of The Matthew, the ship that brought John Cabot and the first Europeans to the North American mainland in 1497, forms the historic centre-piece of the first International Festival of the Sea, which opens later this month in Bristol. This is the first celebration all things maritime ever held in Britain, allowing visitors access to some 800 vessels, classic and modern, and a wide variety of events and exhibitions.

A ninety-acre site in the centre of the city has been given over to the festival, which lasts for the long weekend of the 24th-27th of May. One of the highlights for history buffs and sailing enthusiasts will be the commissioning of the newly built Matthew, which is due next year to set sail for Newfoundland in Canada, recreating, after 500 years, the voyage of John Cabot, the man who initiated Britain's extended sojourn in the New World.