Discover Chatham | A Visitor's Introduction to Chatham

Why is Chatham Worth a Visit?

Chatham is worth visiting for its unrivalled naval history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultural attractions. At the heart of the town lies the Historic Dockyard Chatham, a sprawling museum complex that brings to life centuries of naval history with its preserved ships, historic buildings, and interactive exhibits. Beyond its maritime past, Chatham boasts a lively town centre with excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as beautiful riverside walks and nearby green spaces like Capstone Farm Country Park. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic ships, discovering local military history, or enjoying a relaxed riverside atmosphere, Chatham offers a memorable experience with something for every visitor.

Chatham Highlights: Things to See and Do in Chatham

1. The Historic Dockyard Chatham

The Historic Dockyard Chatham is undoubtedly the town’s most famous and must-visit attraction. Once a key shipbuilding hub for the Royal Navy, the dockyard is now an award-winning museum that spans 80 acres and features over 400 years of maritime history. Visitors can explore historic warships, including HMS Cavalier, a World War II destroyer, and HMS Gannet, a Victorian-era sloop. The dockyard also houses a range of exhibitions, from the Commissioners House—Britain’s oldest naval building—to interactive galleries like Steam, Steel, and Submarines. There’s also the fascinating Ropery, where traditional rope-making demonstrations take place.

Tip: Plan for a full day here, as there’s plenty to see and do. Be sure to take one of the guided tours for in-depth insights into the site’s history.

2. Fort Amherst

Fort Amherst is a massive Napoleonic fort that played a critical role in defending Chatham and its dockyard during times of war. The fort, built into the hillside, offers an intriguing look into the town’s military past, with its underground tunnels, cannons, and battlements open to explore. Visitors can learn about the fort’s role in protecting the Medway and enjoy panoramic views over the river and town. The fort also hosts ghost tours, events, and historical re-enactments throughout the year, adding an extra layer of excitement to the visit.

Tip: The ghost tours are particularly popular, so booking in advance is recommended.

3. Royal Engineers Museum

The Royal Engineers Museum celebrates the history and achievements of the Corps of Royal Engineers, who were based in nearby Gillingham. It is one of the UK’s premier military museums, featuring an extensive collection of artefacts, including weaponry, medals, vehicles, and personal items from various military campaigns. The museum’s exhibitions cover everything from the engineers’ role in building bridges and fortifications to their involvement in modern-day humanitarian missions. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in military history or engineering.

Tip: Check out the collection of Victoria Crosses on display, as it’s one of the largest in the world.

4. Chatham Naval Memorial

Perched high on the Great Lines Heritage Park, the Chatham Naval Memorial is a poignant monument that commemorates over 18,000 Royal Navy personnel who lost their lives during the World Wars. The memorial, with its towering obelisk, offers a striking place of remembrance with breathtaking views over Chatham and the surrounding area. A visit to the memorial provides a moment of quiet reflection and a deeper connection to the town’s naval heritage.

Tip: The best time to visit is around sunset, when the views are particularly stunning.

5. Capstone Farm Country Park

If you’re seeking a break from the town’s historic attractions, Capstone Farm Country Park offers a peaceful natural retreat just a short drive from the centre of Chatham. This large park is a great spot for walking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting, with over 114 hectares of woodlands, meadows, and lakes. There are various walking trails, a children’s play area, and a fishing lake, making it a popular destination for families and nature lovers alike.

6. Dockside Outlet Centre

For those interested in shopping, the Dockside Outlet Centre is a great place to hunt for bargains. Located near the Historic Dockyard, the outlet centre offers a range of high-street and designer brands at discounted prices. There’s also a good selection of cafés and restaurants where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy views over the river. The centre is also home to a cinema, making it a convenient stop for both shopping and entertainment.

7. The Pentagon Shopping Centre

Located in Chatham’s town centre, the Pentagon Shopping Centre is the town’s largest indoor shopping mall, offering a variety of retail stores and dining options. From fashion and electronics to books and cosmetics, the Pentagon is a one-stop destination for visitors looking to shop during their stay in Chatham.

Tip: The centre is also home to an indoor trampoline park, Flip Out Chatham, which is great fun for kids and families.

8. Medway Queen Paddle Steamer

The Medway Queen is a historic paddle steamer that played a heroic role during the Dunkirk evacuation in World War II. Now docked in Gillingham, just a short distance from Chatham, the steamer has been lovingly restored and is open to visitors as a museum. Learning about the Medway Queen’s significant contribution to the war effort is both fascinating and moving. Guided tours offer a chance to step back in time and hear stories of bravery and resilience.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Chatham is well-connected by both road and rail. If travelling by train, Southeastern operates regular services from London Victoria and London St Pancras to Chatham, with journey times of around 40 minutes to 1 hour. The town is also easily accessible by car, located just off the M2 motorway, and it takes about 1 hour from central London. For those travelling by bus, local services connect Chatham with nearby towns such as Rochester, Gillingham, and Maidstone.

Parking

There are several car parks in and around the town centre, with options such as the Pentagon Shopping Centre car park and the Historic Dockyard’s dedicated car park for those visiting the dockyard and nearby attractions. Parking is generally easy to find, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons or when large events are taking place.

Dining

Chatham’s culinary scene offers a wide range of options, from classic British pubs to international cuisine. For a taste of history, try The Punch Tavern, a traditional pub that dates back to the 17th century, known for its cosy atmosphere and hearty pub fare. For a more contemporary dining experience, Boomerang serves up delicious burgers and cocktails in a stylish setting. Seafood lovers should visit The Fishman, a local favourite known for its fresh seafood dishes and casual atmosphere.

Shopping

In addition to the Dockside Outlet Centre and the Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham offers a variety of independent shops and markets. Chatham High Street is a bustling area filled with local stores, charity shops, and food stalls, perfect for picking up souvenirs or enjoying a bite to eat while exploring the town.

When to Visit

Chatham is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn when the weather is mild, and many of the outdoor attractions, like the Historic Dockyard and Fort Amherst, are at their best. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Medway Festival of Steam and Transport in April, which celebrates the town’s industrial heritage with steam engines, vintage vehicles, and family-friendly activities.

Local Events

Chatham hosts a variety of cultural and community events, with highlights including the Sweeps Festival in nearby Rochester, celebrating the town’s historic chimney sweeps with music, dancing, and parades in May. The Dickens Festival, also in Rochester, draws crowds every June, celebrating the life and works of Charles Dickens with historical re-enactments and costume parades.

Exploring Beyond Chatham

Chatham’s location on the River Medway makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby towns and attractions. Just a short walk or drive away is the historic town of Rochester, home to Rochester Castle and Rochester Cathedral, both of which are steeped in history and worth a visit. Upnor Castle, a riverside fortress with views of the Medway, is another nearby attraction that offers a glimpse into the area’s military past.