The Historic Dockyard Chatham

★★★☆☆ (3.5/5) The Historic Dockyard Chatham offers an enjoyable day out with a huge amount to see. The sheer scale of the site is impressive, with a wide range of original historic buildings, preserved ships and exhibitions spread across the dockyard. It’s easy to spend several hours exploring without feeling rushed. One of the highlights was being able to go aboard the Second World War destroyer. Unlike some historic ships where access is fairly limited, you can walk through much of the vessel at your own pace, exploring the different decks and compartments. It gives a real appreciation of what life would have been like for the sailors who served on her and makes the experience feel far more immersive. The Victorian Ropery was another standout attraction. The building itself is remarkable, stretching for around a quarter of a mile so full-length ropes could be produced for Royal Navy ships. Seeing the scale of it in person really brings home the importance of the dockyard and the engineering that supported the Royal Navy. There is a good variety of attractions across the site, from naval history and engineering to film and television locations, so there’s something to appeal to a wide range of visitors. The only thing we missed was the submarine. Visiting requires booking a timed slot, and with everything else we wanted to see we didn’t have time to stop and organise one. It didn’t appear to be particularly busy when we were there, so it would have been nice if it had simply operated as a queue-and-board attraction. That said, it wasn’t a major issue and just gives us another reason to return. Overall, The Historic Dockyard Chatham is well worth a visit, particularly if you have an interest in maritime history. There’s plenty to explore, the historic setting is impressive, and being able to step aboard genuine Royal Navy vessels makes for a memorable experience.

· via Google

Very well worth a visit. Very easy entry and loads of parking, masses of room it never felt crowded. The ship exhibits are superb and you get a truly realistic feeling of what it is to be a sailor or submariner. The facilities and staff were faultless. It was all better than expected. Especially enjoyed seeing rope being made.

· via Google

This was such an interesting place to visit. Plenty to see and good value for money. Not really suitable for people with mobility issues as ships and submarine are confined spaces with steep, narrow steps and ladders. Very educational visit. Several tours available. Good catering facilities (cafe and restaurant). A full day out. Would recommend.

· via Google

Great day out with kids. Very informative and well illustrated. Huge car park. Used the cover one which is further inside. Parking was free . Had to register the car at the ticket counter. Food options were were decent enough at the cafeteria. Plan to book the Ropery and Submarine visits as you arrive to the 1st counter after the ticket counter. The tickets are valid upto a year if you like to come back.

· via Google