
Frequently asked questions
We hope that you’ll find answers here to all your questions, but if you require further assistance, please contact us via email or call 01634 823800 (office hours only).
Yes they are but they must be kept on a lead at all times and are not permitted in any of the Galleries, Buildings, Onboard the Historic Ships, Slips, Mess Deck Restaurant , Wagon Stop Canteen or any indoor/covered areas.
We would advise that it is a lovely location for dog walks, but if you want to look in the galleries and attractions then we would recommend not to bring your dog. Please also note that there are limited shaded areas, so we strongly advise visiting with dogs on cooler days and avoiding hot weather.
Working guide and assistance animals are welcome at the dockyard.
We cannot guarantee access for therapy or emotional support pets, please email us ahead of your visit: info@chdt.org.uk
Parking charges do not apply for anyone visiting The Historic Dockyard.
Parking charges only apply to anyone using the car park and not visiting The Historic Dockyard, shop, or restaurant.
Disabled visitors enter at normal price (of age of ticket) and a carer can enter free of charge*. Carers will need to show a form of ID upon arrival.
Carers tickets cannot be booked online but our front of house team will be happy to process these on arrival.
*This is for 1 carer only.
We have made the site wheelchair friendly but please lookout for the railway tracks to ensure wheels do not get stuck.
If you need a wheelchair please contact us on – 01634 823800 – and we can book one for your visit.
Please see our Accessibility page further details about access around the Historic Dockyard.
No – these events are separately ticketed and require their own event ticket.
Barbeques (disposable and non-disposable) are not permitted anywhere within The Historic Dockyard Chatham site.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is covered by a UAS Restriction Zone. To ensure the safety and the privacy of our visitors, tenants and residents, we do not allow the use of unauthorised remote control aerial cameras, planes, or helicopters.
We are 80 acres – so we understand that you simply can’t see everything in 1 visit. This is why our tickets are annual tickets and are valid for 12 months. This allows you to come back again and again.
To full enjoy a day we suggest a visit of at least 4-5 hours.
We do not offer day tickets as although our tickets are valid for 12 months – they are great value even for one day.
Don’t worry – all your details will be on our system. We can print you a new ticket on your next visit.
Please email us and we can check this for you.
Please book via britmovietours.com or call 0844 2471007.
Time Credits can be booked on the day at our ticket desks. We will need your Time Credits account reference number.
Yes, The Historic Dockyard Chatham is a great day out for families. Younger visitors can explore historic warships, enjoy outdoor play areas and indoor soft play, get hands-on in interactive galleries, and take part in family activities during the school holidays.
Yes, The Historic Dockyard Chatham offers a range of facilities to help support visitors with special educational needs and disabilities. Sensory Support Backpacks are available to borrow free of charge, quieter outdoor spaces can be found around the site, and accessible events take place throughout the year.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham has both indoor and outdoor attractions to enjoy throughout your visit. Explore historic ships, gardens and outdoor play areas, alongside indoor galleries, museums, exhibitions, cafés and family activities.
Yes. Many of our main attractions, including galleries, exhibitions, cafés and museums, are located indoors, making The Historic Dockyard Chatham a great day out whatever the weather.
Yes, visitors can step onboard and explore our three historic warships: HMS GANNET, HMS CAVALIER and HM Submarine OCELOT. Guided tours are also available on selected attractions throughout the site.
Yes, we have two catering outlets serving a range of meals, snacks and drinks during your visit. The Mess Deck restaurant is famous for its Fish & Chips, while the Wagon Stop Canteen offers pizzas, sandwiches, cakes and ice cream. Visitors are also welcome to bring picnics to enjoy in our outdoor spaces.
Yes, be sure to leave time for a visit to the Dockyard shop, where you can pick up gifts, souvenirs and mementos inspired by 400 years of maritime history.
Yes, pushchairs are welcome across the site. With wide outdoor spaces, cafés, play areas and family facilities, there is plenty for families with younger children to enjoy during their visit.
Yes, baby changing facilities are available on site for visitors with young children.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take photographs during their visit, from historic ships and galleries to exhibitions and waterfront views across the Dockyard.
There is something to enjoy at The Historic Dockyard Chatham throughout the season. Spring and summer are perfect for exploring the outdoor spaces and seasonal events, while autumn brings family activities, exhibitions and special experiences such as Mission Christmas.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham is a Private Property and a working historic dockyard with the possibility of moving plant and vehicles. All visitors must keep to the designated paths and roadways. Please be aware that cobbled areas, paved areas, timber, steel etc walkways within The Dockyard may not always be even and can be slippery when wet. This may make some areas unsuitable for people with access problems or the elderly. You are advised to wear sensible footwear and we reserve the right to refuse admission into The Historic Dockyard, any exhibit or area within, to anyone not wearing such. Also, do not touch or climb on any exhibit unless invited to do so. All children under the age of 16 must always be supervised by an Adult. The owner and occupier of The Historic Dockyard will not be held liable for any loss, damage or injury that is suffered to the person or property whilst you are within The Historic Dockyard (however such loss, damage or injury is caused). PARKING IS AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Please enjoy a safe visit with us.
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