Chatham in Kent is a fascinating spot for travelers interested in maritime history, TV filming locations, and lively cultural events. Its historic dockyard is a highlight that draws history buffs and film fans alike. We especially enjoy the Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour, which offers a unique peek into the set of the beloved BBC drama, and the Annual Ticket, perfect for those wanting to explore multiple ships and exhibits over time. With its mix of shipbuilding heritage, film locations, and lively festivals, Chatham provides a rich variety of tours suited to many interests.
If you’re a fan of period dramas, the Call the Midwife tour is a must. For travelers seeking a comprehensive experience, the Annual Ticket offers a flexible way to learn about the dockyard’s extensive maritime displays. And for those who enjoy creative activities, the Paint and Sip in Kent combines art with relaxation. Finally, during September, the Salute to the ’40s festival packs in vintage cars, music, and military displays to celebrate the 1940s era.
1. Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Call the Midwife Tour offers a walking journey through the sets of this popular BBC period drama. For around $53.88, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the historic dockyard with a guide, and best of all, it’s led by a real midwife, adding authenticity and charm. The tour focuses on the locations seen in the show, including the slums and warehouses, while sharing behind-the-scenes stories about filming.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed storytelling combined with the chance to see props, costumes, and filming anecdotes. Visitors consistently praise the guide Heather for her engaging delivery. The flexibility to explore the dockyard on your own before or after the tour at no extra cost enhances the experience. Fans appreciate the chance to revisit familiar scenes and learn how the dockyard has been used for various other productions. A highlight is the visit to the set area with props and costumes, perfect for photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: If you love Call the Midwife or history and film locations intrigue you, this tour provides a memorable and well-reviewed experience at a reasonable price.
2. The Historic Dockyard Chatham Annual Ticket
For about $30.71, the Annual Ticket grants you access to the dockyard for a full year from your first visit, which is a fantastic deal. This ticket opens the door to a wide array of maritime attractions, including a Cold War submarine, a WWII destroyer, and the UK’s largest collection of RNLI Lifeboats. You can explore at your own pace, with the flexibility to return multiple times to see different exhibits.
The value here comes from the breadth of what’s included. Visitors rave about the chance to step aboard historic ships, peek through periscopes, ring ship’s bells, and learn about Chatham’s shipbuilding legacy. The dockyard also features a rope-making museum and several other ships and exhibits. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts or families wanting a day of hands-on exploration. Several reviews mention that the expansive site makes it easy to spend hours, and the ability to come back multiple times extends the value considerably.
Potential drawback: Some visitors noted that the entry process for vouchers could be smoother, but overall, the endless exploration options make this a solid choice.
Bottom Line: If you’d like a flexible, immersive experience with multiple visits, the Annual Ticket offers excellent value and a comprehensive look at Chatham’s maritime past.
3. Paint and Sip in Kent
Looking for a fun, low-pressure way to get creative? The Paint and Sip in Kent session is a 1.5-hour workshop designed to be relaxing and social. It’s perfect if you want to try painting without needing prior experience — no skill required, just patience and some willingness to experiment. The event encourages making new friends over a glass of wine or soft drink while you work on a guided painting project.
While it doesn’t include sightseeing or historical insights, it’s a great option for travelers seeking a creative break or an interactive activity with a casual vibe. You’ll learn some basic techniques, try out different colors, and walk away with your own canvas artwork. It’s especially suited for those who want a memorable, hands-on experience that combines art and socializing.
Bottom Line: For a laid-back, artistic activity that’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers, this workshop provides a fun way to unwind and create something special.
4. Salute to the ’40s | The Historic Dockyard Chatham 20/21 Sep
If you’re visiting in September, the Salute to the ’40s festival is the event to catch. This two-day vintage celebration immerses visitors in the 1940s with classic cars, military vehicles, live music, and family activities. Expect plenty of opportunities to see military reenactments, vintage market stalls, and enjoy themed food and drink that evoke the era’s flavors.
This festival is visually impressive, with marvelous displays of military and civilian vehicles, and offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for history lovers, vintage enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience a lively celebration of the 1940s. The event also features performances and demonstrations, making it a dynamic way to spend a day or weekend.
Note: The festival date is specific, so it’s best to plan your trip around this event if you want to attend. Pricing is around $39 a person, and tickets typically sell out early.
Bottom Line: For a lively, immersive vintage experience filled with sights and sounds of the 1940s, this festival is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
$39 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Chatham
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re a TV fan or love filming locations, the Call the Midwife Tour offers a detailed look at the sets and behind-the-scenes stories. For those wanting to explore more freely, the Annual Ticket provides unlimited access to ships and exhibits over a year—ideal for families or history buffs.
Creative types should check out Paint and Sip in Kent, especially if you’re interested in a fun, relaxed activity with no experience necessary. Meanwhile, if you’ll be in the area during late September, the Salute to the ’40s festival offers a full weekend of vintage entertainment.
Think about how much time you want to spend, whether you’re willing to pay a bit more for multiple sights, or if a single themed tour fits your schedule better. For example, booking the Call the Midwife Tour or the Annual Ticket in advance ensures you’ll get the most out of your trip.
Chatham offers a variety of tours suited for different tastes—from film fans and history lovers to creative spirits and vintage enthusiasts. If you’re interested in maritime history, the dockyard’s ships and museums are hard to beat. For a touch of TV nostalgia, the Call the Midwife Tour is a charming and lively experience. And for something different, the Salute to the ’40s celebrates a colorful era with plenty of visual excitement.
No matter your preference, these tours highlight the diversity of Chatham’s attractions. Booking early, especially for special events like the Salute to the ’40s, ensures you won’t miss out. Whether you’re here for a day or a year, Chatham’s rich offerings won’t disappoint.