John Thaw as Sir Francis Drake!! This drama was first screened in approximately Oct-Dec 1980, to my almost certain knowledge it has not been repeated - which is one huge shame! Thaw's performance (his first screen role after finishing The Sweeney & prior to commencing Inspector Morse) is a delight. Historically 100% accurate and using the modern replica of Golden Hinde (currently moored by the Tate Modern in London) to tremendous effect this is a wonderful piece of television.
I am surprised that with the untimely death of Thaw, and with the raft of tributes and other programmes screened at the time, that this did not make an appearance. Even more amazing is that it is NOT available on DVD (well if it is, I cannot locate it) if someone knows of it maybe they will let us know. In the meantime I for one will continue to wait for it to be either repeated or even better released. If it does show up, catch it, you are in for a treat.