Chatham Historic Dockyard
Main Gate Road, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TZ
Maritime galleries, Cold War vessels, and a restored Victorian Ropery are among the highlights at the impressive Chatham Historic Dockyard, a sprawling 80-acre (32-hectare) naval complex among the best of its kind in Britain. Learn about British naval history in a hands-on way at this family-friendly attraction, which holds free talks and tours daily.
The Basics
There’s plenty to keep you occupied at Chatham Historic Dockyard, including the chance to go aboard three historic warships—HMS Ocelot, HMS Cavalier, and HMS Gannet—for an immersive insight into naval life; tour a collection of RNLI lifeboats; and explore several interactive galleries.
With so much to see and do at this vast attraction, save time on the day by booking admission tickets in advance and enjoy access to several guided experiences, such as the Victorian Ropery tour, ropemaking demonstrations, and a walkthrough of HMS Ocelot, most of which are available daily.
Things to Know Before You Go
Fans of British TV won’t want to miss Chatham Historic Dockyard, a filming location for shows including Mr Selfridge, Sherlock Holmes, and Call the Midwife.
Admission tickets to the Chatham Historic Dockyard include repeat entry for an entire year, as well as access to most on-site tours and talks.
The Call the Midwife tour must be booked separately.
Chatham Historic Dockyard covers 80 acres (32 hectares), so prepare for a lot of walking and plan to spend a full day exploring the exhibits.
There’s an on-site gift store, canteen, restaurant, and accessible bathrooms.
Chatham Historic Dockyard is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible and children ages three and below enter for free.
How to Get There
Chatham Historic Dockyard is situated on the east bank of the Medway River in Kent and is well-connected by public transit. The closest train station is Chatham, a 30-minute walk away, and many Arriva buses pass by Chatham Historic Dockyard. On-site car parking is free for first-time visitors.
When to Get There
Chatham Historic Dockyard is typically open between early February and late November, from the mid-morning until the late afternoon. Last admission to the galleries is 30 minutes before close. You can only secure your spot on tours and talks that are included in the admission cost on the day at the Visitor Centre.
Other Naval Attractions
Naval history buffs won’t want to miss the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, which is home to HMS Victory—Horatio Nelson’s Battle of Trafalgar flagship—as well as the HMS Warrior and the remains of the Mary Rose, a Tudor navy warship. Meanwhile, London’s free-to-access National Maritime Museum is a hub of seafaring history, artifacts, and artwork, including the Ship in a Bottle sculpture.
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