Maritime historian Nigel Pickford explores the sinking of the HMS Gloucester in 1682, the most controversial and significant shipwreck of the 17th century. Many blamed James, Duke of York, the future James II, for the catastrophe, but it was the pilot who ended up in the Marshalsea.

In this lecture, learn more about the full drama and tragic consequences of a shipwreck that shook Restoration Britain, and why Samuel Pepys, although invited to sail that day, was not on the ill-fated voyage. Pepys blamed almost every one for the disaster; however, he had some awkward questions to answer too...

This event took place in the lecture theatre at the National Maritime Museum on 14 October. 

Watch the discussion