Experience the Charm of Chatham’s Historic Dockyard and “Call the Midwife” Filming Locations
If you’re a fan of the beloved BBC series Call the Midwife, this tour offers a chance to step into the show’s world without leaving England’s historic Chatham Dockyard. For just over an hour and a half, you’ll follow a guide dressed as a midwife, exploring exterior sites that served as the backdrop for 1950s and 1960s Poplar. The price tag of about $55 makes this a reasonably priced window into both military history and television production.
What we love about this experience is how it combines the nostalgic appeal of the show with the tangible history of the dockyard—over 100 period buildings and historic warships—and, of course, the chance to take photos of recognizable streets and set locations. The guide’s enthusiasm and detailed storytelling help bring the filming sites to life. That said, some visitors find parts of the tour a bit slow or overly focused on dockyard history, which might not be for everyone.
This tour is perfect for dedicated fans eager to see the series’ filming locations firsthand, as well as history enthusiasts interested in the dockyard’s 80-acre site. If you’re curious about how sets are created or simply love the series, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
Key Points
- Authentic filming locations from Call the Midwife are explored with a knowledgeable guide.
- The guide’s costume and storytelling add an immersive feel.
- The tour includes full access to Chatham Dockyard after the walk.
- It’s a balanced mix of TV lore and maritime history.
- The duration (90 minutes) is manageable for most visitors.
- Price offers good value considering the site access and guided insights.
A Deep Dive into the “Call the Midwife” Location Tour
Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers
This walking tour begins at the Memorial area inside Chatham Dockyard, between the historic ships HMS Cavalier and HMS Ocelot. The guide, dressed as a midwife, acts as both storyteller and enthusiast, leading you through the outdoor filming locations that have become iconic in the series. With an average booking window of 66 days in advance, it’s clear this experience is popular—especially among dedicated series fans.
Throughout the 90-minute walk, you’ll hear stories about how these outdoor sets transform into the streets of 1950s East London. The dockyard serves as a versatile backdrop, thanks to its ability to mimic the impoverished neighborhoods of Poplar. You’ll marvel at how modern-day structures are cleverly dressed to resemble the period setting, an aspect that many visitors find fascinating.
The Exterior Sets and Their Charm
The highlight of the tour is strolling through the key filming locations that have appeared in Call the Midwife. As you walk, your guide will share behind-the-scenes facts—such as how many scenes are shot on location and how some of the buildings are temporary sets or repurposed backdrops. One reviewer noted, “You will have a great time, not only on the Call the Midwife Tour but at the Historic Dockyard,” emphasizing the overall value of combining the series with a visit to the historic site.
Many fans find it rewarding to see the streets and alleys where their favorite characters, like Sister Julienne or Nurse Trixie, may have appeared. The recognizable facades and props evoke scenes from the show, although some reviews point out that “most of the film is taken back to the studio,” meaning the outdoor locations are only part of the overall production process.
The Guide: Enthusiasm Matters
The knowledge and passion of the guides shine through in reviews praising Irene and other guides’ detailed explanations. One reviewer commented, “The guide’s enthusiasm and detailed storytelling made the locations come alive,” illustrating how much their personal touch enhances the experience. The guide also provides context about the dockyard’s long and varied history, which adds depth beyond the series.
Post-Tour Exploration: Full Access to the Dockyard
After the walking component, visitors are free to explore the dockyard further. This is where the experience really shines—over 100 Georgian and Victorian buildings, historic warships, and temporary exhibitions are open for further exploration. Fans of the series or maritime history will appreciate the opportunity to wander at their own pace. Several reviews emphasize how the dockyard itself is a worthwhile visit, even outside the series’ filming locations.
The Overall Experience: What to Expect
You’ll want to arrive at the meeting point—located conveniently near public transport options—and prepare for a bit of walking. The tour’s group size, capped at 26, keeps things intimate enough for questions and close-up viewing, but expect some walking back and forth across the site.
While most reviews are positive, some mention that parts of the outdoor filming areas look quite different from their television counterparts—an unavoidable aspect of filming on location. As one reviewer noted, “It’s mainly a walking tour where most of the filming is done in the studio, but the props and photos on display help bring the scenes to life.”
The Cost and Value
At around $55, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the full access to the historic dockyard afterward. Many guests mention that guides are not only friendly but very knowledgeable, providing insights that enrich the viewing experience. For fans willing to pay a modest fee for a snapshot into the series’ filming locations combined with historical context, this tour hits the mark.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for dedicated Call the Midwife fans who want to see the filming locations in person, and for history buffs interested in the dockyard’s architecture and maritime past. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy guided storytelling and the chance to take plenty of photos. However, if you prefer a more studio-focused experience or dislike walking outdoors in all weather, this might not be your ideal choice.
Final Thoughts
The Call the Midwife Location Tour in Chatham offers a well-rounded experience that combines TV fandom with a visit to an important maritime site. The guided walk, led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, makes the outdoor filming locations come alive, even if some scenes are recreated in studios. The full access to the dockyard allows you to explore at your own pace, adding value for those interested in history and maritime heritage.
This tour provides a good balance of entertainment and education, making it a worthwhile outing for fans or anyone curious about how period drama sets are created on location. The moderate price point, coupled with the high praise from many visitors, suggests this is a smart choice for those planning a day trip to Chatham.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for older children or fans of the show, considering the walking involved and interest in filming locations.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most people book about 66 days ahead on average, as the tour tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walking tour and full access to Chatham Dockyard after the tour.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. You can reschedule or cancel for a full refund.
How long does the tour last?
The guided portion runs approximately 90 minutes, after which you are free to explore the dockyard on your own.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the dockyard is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel, but the meeting point is accessible by public transit.
Are there any hidden costs?
Photos can be taken during the tour, but some reviews mention a small fee for downloads. It’s best to ask the guide about this during your visit.
Whether you’re a Call the Midwife devotee or simply a lover of historic ships and buildings, this tour offers a delightful peek into both worlds. It’s an authentic, well-run experience that makes the series’ beloved locations feel close enough to touch.