Chatham is a fascinating place for anyone interested in maritime history and film. Its historic dockyard is not just a working shipbuilding site but also a film set for many popular shows, including the BBC hit Call the Midwife. Walking through these historic surroundings, you can imagine stories of sailors and wartime heroes, while also enjoying the backdrop of a well-preserved maritime hub. We particularly love the Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour for its unique combination of TV nostalgia and authentic dockyard history. It’s perfect for fans of the show or anyone curious about Britain’s shipbuilding legacy.
If you prefer an all-access pass, the Historic Dockyard Chatham Annual Ticket offers a year of exploration, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the full maritime experience at their own pace. And for a fun, lively event, the Salute to the ’40s festival in September turns back the clock with vintage cars, music, and military displays. Below, we’ll look at each of these options to help you decide which best suits your interests.
1. Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour
This tour puts you right into the world of the beloved BBC series Call the Midwife. Led by a knowledgeable guide, often a midwife, you’ll explore the slums and warehouses seen on screen, gaining behind-the-scenes stories about filming. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and you can check specific times when booking. It’s not just about the show; you’ll also learn how Chatham Dockyard has been used in other films and TV productions, giving you a broader context of its cinematic appeal.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to see props and costumes, which adds a tangible connection to the beloved series. Reviewers describe it as “the best tour ever,” praising the guide Heather for her engaging storytelling and the mix of TV trivia and historical facts. Fans of the show will appreciate the chance to see the sets and learn how scenes were created, while history lovers will enjoy the insight into Britain’s dockyard past.
A bonus is the option to explore the dockyard on your own after the tour, without extra charge. Whether you’re a fan or just curious, this tour combines entertainment and education beautifully. The price of $53.88 offers good value for a guided experience packed with storytelling.
Bottom line: Perfect for TV fans and those wanting an insider look at film sets while enjoying the historic dockyard.
2. The Historic Dockyard Chatham Annual Ticket
For around $30.71, you get a year-long pass to explore one of the UK’s most impressive maritime collections. This ticket grants you access to a wide array of exhibits, including the world’s biggest collection of RNLI historic lifeboats, a Cold War submarine you can peer through, and ships you can walk aboard. It’s an excellent choice if you’re staying multiple days or want flexibility.
Guests often comment on the variety and depth of the exhibits. Many mention how interesting the rope-making operation and ship interiors are, making it suitable for history enthusiasts and families alike. The ability to revisit throughout the year makes this ticket a good investment, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want to break up your experience into several visits.
One review notes how onboard a WWII destroyer and a Victorian sloop, visitors gain a real sense of maritime life. The only potential downside is the booking process, which some found slightly cumbersome due to manual barcode input. Still, the overall experience is highly rated with an average of 4.8/5.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an extensive, flexible exploration of Chatham’s ships and maritime heritage at a good price.
3. Salute to the ’40s | The Historic Dockyard Chatham 20/21 Sep
This event is a lively, colorful celebration of the 1940s, held annually at the dockyard. Expect classic cars, military vehicles, and live music that recreate the wartime atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, browse vintage markets, and indulge in period-appropriate food and drinks. It’s a full-day experience that appeals to those interested in 20th-century history and vintage culture.
While the exact reviews aren’t listed, the event’s highlights include military displays and entertainment for all ages, making it a fun day out for families and history lovers alike. The festival’s charm lies in the authentic costumes and vehicles, which help paint a lively picture of life during the 1940s.
Tickets are priced at $39 per person, with the event occurring on specific dates in September. This is a fantastic choice if you’re visiting during that time or want to combine your historical interests with a festive, cultural experience. It’s less about in-depth history and more about lively immersion in a pivotal era.
Bottom line: Best suited for vintage enthusiasts, families, and those wanting a spirited celebration of the 1940s.
$39 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re a TV fan or curious about film sets, the Call the Midwife Tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes look. If your goal is to explore the full maritime collection at your own pace, the annual ticket is the most flexible and cost-effective. For those interested in a vintage festival or special event, the Salute to the ’40s provides a lively, immersive experience.
Think about your travel schedule, budget, and interests. Families with kids might prefer the annual ticket for its variety, while TV fans may find the Call the Midwife tour unforgettable. Timing also matters—if visiting in September, the vintage festival is a fantastic add-on.
Booking in advance is advisable, especially for popular events and the guided tours, to secure your preferred times and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Chatham offers a diverse range of historical and cultural experiences suited to many interests. For an insider look at film sets and the dockyard’s filming history, the Call the Midwife Tour is perfect. If your focus is on maritime exploration with flexible access, the annual ticket delivers excellent value. For a lively, period-themed event, the Salute to the ’40s offers a fun, immersive experience.
We recommend booking early, especially for popular tours during peak seasons. Whether you’re a serious history buff, a TV fan, or just looking for a fun day out, Chatham has something for you. Take your pick, and enjoy stepping back in time in this historic maritime town.