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Celebrations

A remarkable setting for special occasions, with maritime charm as your backdrop.

special occasions

lets celebrate

The Historic Dockyard Chatham is the perfect setting to host your next party or special occasion.

From hen parties, baby showers and ‘big’ birthdays to intimate afternoon teas, private dinners, proms and celebrations of life, we offer a variety of packages within our stunning historic venues.

Get in touch
Drinks reception at Trafalgar Night Dinner at The Historic Dockyard Chatham.

Private Dining Experiences

Are you celebrating a special birthday, bridal shower, engagement or anniversary? The Historic Dockyard Chatham is the perfect setting for a private dining experience.

Available for up to 120 guests, our private venues offer exclusivity, character and charm. From spectacular garden views or romantic balcony settings to unique experiences aboard historic ships, there is a space to suit all occasions.

More intimate gatherings can be held within Captains Cabin’s or more grand affairs within the Garden Marquee or Mess Deck dining hall.

With a choice of three Kentish caterers, you can enjoy exquisite food and drink from local suppliers regardless of whether you would like a three course dinner or more informal dining such as a BBQ or buffet.

Each private dining space can be decorated to suit your theme and occasion, making The Historic Dockyard Chatham the perfect venue for an unforgettable celebration.

Summer BBQ at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Evening reception onboard HMS Gannet at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Drinks reception at Trafalgar Night Dinner at The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
Plate detail at Trafalgar Night Dinner at The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Private dining onboard HMS Gannet at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Evening reception onboard HMS Gannet at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Private dining onboard HMS Gannet at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Corporate dining plate detail at Trafalgar Night Dinner at The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
Summer BBQ at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent

Reimagined Commissioner’s House – Coming Soon

The Queen Anne style Commissioner’s House, built for Captain George St Lo in 1704, is Britain’s oldest intact naval building. Steeped in over three centuries of maritime history and serving as the grand residence of the Dockyard Commissioner, little has changed since its original construction.

Thanks to a transformative grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND), Commissioner’s House is going through a remarkable refurbishment in 2025. By summer 2026 this iconic historic building will reopen as a beautiful new space for all to enjoy.

what’s new?

  • A venue like no other: From weddings and parties to corporate events and meetings, this beautifully restored historic house will offer a unique and inspiring setting for any occasion.
  • Enhanced public access and richer experiences: Discover the grandeur of the Commissioner’s residence like never before through enhanced interpretation of its past.
  • Sustainability first: Energy efficiency upgrades will ensures it is preserved for future generations – balancing a heritage asset against environmental responsibility.

Be among the first to experience the reimagined Commissioner’s House. Enquire today to plan your 2026 event.

Enquire Now for 2026
funding news story
Restoration Project
Trafalgar Night Dinner at The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Mess Deck

Meals on the Mess Deck are a regular occurrence for the Royal Navy. Our Mess Deck might not be at sea but its function is no different and it provides a modern, flexible function space.

Available in January and early February, this stunning venue is one of a kind and can accommodate up to 240 guests seated for dining.

It’s perfect for a winter wedding reception, birthday party or a private dining experience to reward your clients or staff.

  • Exclusive use venue
  • Onsite parking outside the venue
  • Fully accessible
  • Three fabulous caterers to choose from

HMS Gannet

Where else can you entertain clients or gather friends on a ship from the Age of Sail? If you want to wow your guests, this is the perfect event space for you.

HMS GANNET  was built on the River Medway at Sheerness in 1878. Designed to patrol the world’s oceans, she ‘flew the flag’ protecting British interests around the world, including the South Pacific, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea.

Seating up to 20 in the Captain’s Cabin for a private dining experience or up to 150 on the main deck for drinks and canapes, this venue is ideal for drinks receptions, product launches, private dining and evenings with entertainment.

  • Exclusive use venue
  • Three fabulous caterers to choose from
  • Dining venue for up to 20
  • Drinks reception venue for up to 150
Evening reception onboard HMS Gannet at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Summer BBQ at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent

Summer BBQ

Gourmet and Executive BBQ packages available, including exclusive hire of Commissioner’s House and Gardens. Perfect for a summer get together or to celebrate a special occasion. Minimum number of 50 people per booking.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

We understand that the loss of a loved one and arranging a funeral is a difficult time. When you choose to host a Celebration of Life at the Historic Dockyard, we endeavour to ensure that our friendly and dedicated team will be on-hand from start to finish to make you day stress free.

Our Celebration of Life package includes two catering options and exclusive use of the ground floor of Commissioner’s House.

Summer BBQ at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent
Prom light in Ballroom at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent

PROMS

Our prom package is great way to finish off the end of a school year, prices include exclusive use of Commissioner’s House and Gardens. 

AFTERNOON TEA PACKAGE

Enjoy a full Afternoon Tea within Commissioner’s House, with use of the patio and gardens.

Get in Touch

Please tell us as much as you can about the event you’re planning and a member of our hospitality team will contact you to discuss your plans in more detail.

Telephone

01634 823846

Email

ch-events@chdt.org.uk