For more than four centuries The Historic Dockyard Chatham was one of Britain’s most important centres of warship building and repair. Over 400 warships were built here, allowing the Royal Navy to dominate the seas of Europe and beyond. Today it is the world’s most complete dockyard of the Age of Sail.
Click on the tiles below to explore the Dockyard, its attractions and collections …
We have a range of tours and talks available for everyone to enjoy, all included in the price of your entry ticket. All tours are booked on arrival.
To book onto a tour, after you’ve validated your ticket, please make your way down the ramp to the Plan Your Visit area. A member of our team will book you onto your choice of tours. We have a variety of times throughout the day but please book as soon as you arrive to avoid disappointment.
All tours and demonstrations start at the all-new Ropery Gallery.
Be transported back in time during our 30-minute Ropery Experience. Learn about the ancient art of ropemaking, its vital role in supporting Chatham’s shipbuilding and discover why our enormous double ropewalk is ¼ mile long. You’ll also have the opportunity to get hand-on with our ropemaking machine, before exploring the breath-taking ropery buildings.
Rope has been made at Chatham for over 400 years and it continues to be made today for customers all over the world. Witness the mysterious craft of ropemaking for yourself during our live demonstrations by the Master Ropemakers.
12.15pm in The Ropery.
Get a taster for what life was like onboard a real submarine. Swing through the hatches and explore the last Royal Navy warship built at Chatham.
The walk through takes approximately 15 minutes.
Telling the story of a true dockyard worker, this immersive audio visual tour takes you through the Mould Loft – the exact building where the designs of HMS Victory were made.
Join retired Master Shipwright, John North, as he relives his role as HMS Valiant’s Carpenter and encourages his Grandson to follow in his footsteps. What will the young man do? Become a Shipwright like his Grandfather – or follow his instincts and join the Royal Navy to be like Nelson?
Be immersed in the intriguing secrets behind building the mighty ships that conquered the world’s oceans. Learn how Chatham Dockyard and its people helped lead Britain to worldwide influence and dig into the fascinating archaeological discoveries from the HMS Namur and HMS Invincible.
Find out moreSaving lives off the coasts of the British Isles for generations, explore how lifeboats have changed over time with the RNLI's largest collection of historic lifeboats in the UK.
Find out moreLocated in our free to enter space – pop in for a coffee and cake, or treat yourself to our famous Fish & Chips. With plenty of seating and a generous menu – you will not leave hungry!
Find out moreMarvel at an architectural delight on the mezzanine floor then explore BIG items from The Historic Dockyard and Royal Engineers Museum on the ground floor.
Find out moreDiscover what life was really like onboard a Victorian sloop, a WWII Destroyer and a Cold War Submarine. Sense the vision and grit that created these magnificent vessels and feel the courage and endurance of the sailors who sailed them.
Find out moreWorld-class collections from Royal Museums Greenwich and the Imperial War Museums. Unlock fascinating stories surrounding fantastic ship models, paintings and incredible objects.
Find out moreCompleted in 1704 for the Commissioner & his family. This is now a grand venue for: weddings, civil partnerships, renewing vows, birthday parties, anniversaries, social & corporate dinners, training days & business meetings.
Find out moreExperience life as a Victorian Rope maker with a personal guide in character. There are opportunities to make your own rope before seeing the dramatic ¼-mile ropewalk!
Find out moreExperience The Dockyard story through the Industrial Revolution and two World Wars and be inspired by the innovation and bravery of those who worked here and discover their contribution to the Royal Navy.
Find out moreEnjoy a hearty pies, doorstop sandwiche or delicious sausage roll. A soft play area allows children to let off steam whilst adults can sit back with a coffee!
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