About The Historic Dockyard Chatham
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is a maritime museum and attraction located in Chatham, Kent, England. It is located on the site of the former Chatham Royal Dockyard, which was a major naval shipyard and base for the Royal Navy from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The museum covers the history of the dockyard and its role in the construction and repair of naval ships, as well as the lives of the people who worked there.
The museum is made up of a number of historic buildings and structures, including the 17th-century Wheelwrights’ Workshop, the Ropery, and the Command of the Oceans galleries, which showcase the history of the Royal Navy and its role in shaping the world. There are also a number of interactive exhibits, including the chance to explore a Victorian warship, the HMS Gannet, and the opportunity to try your hand at traditional rope-making techniques in the Ropery.
In addition to the museum, the Historic Dockyard Chatham also includes a number of other attractions, such as the No. 1 Smithery, a working blacksmith’s forge where visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional metalworking techniques, and the Steam, Steel and Submarines gallery, which displays a collection of steam-powered vehicles and other machinery. The site also includes a number of restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
Notable exhibits
The Historic Dockyard Chatham has a number of notable exhibits and attractions that showcase the history of the Royal Navy and the Chatham Royal Dockyard. Some of the highlights include:
- The Command of the Oceans galleries: These galleries tell the story of the Royal Navy from the 17th to the 20th centuries, including its role in shaping the world through exploration, trade, and conflict. The galleries include a number of interactive exhibits and displays, such as models of naval ships, artifacts from naval battles, and interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the lives of sailors and the history of the Royal Navy.
- The HMS Gannet: This is a Victorian warship that has been fully restored and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ship's deck, cabins, and engine room and learn about the lives of the sailors who served on it.
- The Ropery: This is a working rope-making factory that was originally built in the 18th century. Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional rope-making techniques and try their hand at making rope themselves.
- The No. 1 Smithery: This is a working blacksmith's forge that offers demonstrations of traditional metalworking techniques. Visitors can watch the blacksmiths at work and learn about the history of ironworking at the Chatham Royal Dockyard.
- The Steam, Steel and Submarines gallery: This gallery displays a collection of steam-powered vehicles and other machinery, including a steam locomotive, a steam crane, and a submarine. It offers a unique insight into the history of technology and the role it played in the Royal Navy.
These are just a few of the many exhibits and attractions that can be found at the Historic Dockyard Chatham. There is something for everyone, whether you are interested in naval history, technology, or traditional crafts.
Food & drink
The Historic Dockyard Chatham has a number of food and drink options available to visitors. The No. 1 Smithery café is located in the No. 1 Smithery building and serves a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light meals. The Wheelwrights' Workshop café is located in the 17th-century Wheelwrights' Workshop building and offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light meals. The Ropery café is located in the Ropery building and serves a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light meals.
In addition to these cafés, there are also a number of other food and drink options available on site. The Captain's Table restaurant is located in the Command of the Oceans galleries and offers a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light meals. The Submarine Bar is located in the Steam, Steel and Submarines gallery and serves a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks. The Victory Bar is located in the Command of the Oceans galleries and serves a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks.
Visitors can also bring their own food and drink and picnic in the designated picnic areas on site. There are also a number of shops on site that sell a range of souvenirs, gifts, and other items.
Length of visit
The length of time that you will need to visit the Historic Dockyard Chatham will depend on your interests and how much you want to see and do. The museum covers a large site and includes a number of historic buildings and structures, interactive exhibits, and other attractions. Some visitors may be able to see everything in a single day, while others may want to spend more time exploring the museum and taking part in the interactive exhibits.
To get the most out of your visit, it is a good idea to plan your trip in advance and decide which exhibits and attractions you want to see. You can check the museum's website for information about opening times, ticket prices, and other details. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum covers a large area and you may be walking around a lot.
Overall, the Historic Dockyard Chatham is a fascinating and educational attraction that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in naval history, traditional crafts, or technology, there is something to see and do at this unique museum.
Hints & tips
- Plan ahead: To get the most out of your visit, it is a good idea to plan your trip in advance and decide which exhibits and attractions you want to see. You can check the museum's website for information about opening times, ticket prices, and other details.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The museum covers a large area and you may be walking around a lot, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring a camera: The museum has a number of interesting and photogenic exhibits and buildings, so it is a good idea to bring a camera to capture your visit.
- Take breaks: If you plan to spend a full day at the museum, it is a good idea to take breaks to rest and refuel. There are a number of cafés and restaurants on site where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.
- Take your time: There is a lot to see and do at the museum, so don't feel rushed to see everything. Take your time to explore the exhibits and enjoy the interactive displays.
- Ask questions: The museum staff are knowledgeable about the history of the Chatham Royal Dockyard and the Royal Navy, and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Don't be afraid to ask for more information about the exhibits or the history of the museum.
- Follow the museum's rules: The museum has a number of rules in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of the exhibits. Make sure to follow these rules and respect the museum's staff and exhibits.
