Call the Midwife Location Tour in Chatham

If you’re a fan of the beloved BBC series Call the Midwife, this tour promises a chance to step behind the scenes and walk through the very streets and locations where the show’s iconic scenes are filmed. Set in Chatham’s historic dockyard, the experience combines a walking tour with fascinating insights into the filming process, all led by guides passionate about the show—and with some even having nursing backgrounds themselves. Priced at around $55, it’s a reasonably budgeted way to blend your love for the series with a touch of local history.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the knowledgeable guide dressed as a midwife, which adds a layer of fun and authenticity. You’ll get to see easily recognizable exterior sets, learn how the 1950s and 1960s East End London is recreated in a modern dockyard, and enjoy free exploration of Chatham Dockyard afterward. The only potential drawback? If you’re expecting a heavily staged or studio-like experience, you might find some parts a little more about the dockyard history than the actual filming props and set details. Still, it’s an experience best suited for fans who want a good mix of show-related storytelling and historic site exploration.

Overall, whether you’re a dedicated fan of Call the Midwife or simply curious about British period dramas, this tour offers a unique and engaging way to spend about 90 minutes in Chatham.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations: Walk the streets that doubled as 1950s East London.
• Engaging guides: Guides dressed as midwives bring enthusiasm and context.
• Behind-the-scenes stories: Gain insight into filming tricks and set design.
• Historic dockyard access: Explore the 80-acre site with vintage ships and buildings.
• Value for money: At just over $55, you get a comprehensive, entertaining experience.
• Excellent for fans: Especially those wanting to connect more deeply with the show.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour, lasting roughly an hour and a half, begins at the memorial located inside Chatham Dockyard, between HMS Cavalier and HMS Ocelot. You’ll meet your guide—who’s dressed as a midwife—and a small group of fellow enthusiasts, making the experience intimate and personalized. From there, you’re led on a walk through the dockyard’s exterior sets used in Call the Midwife, with plenty of time for photos and questions.

Walking through Call the Midwife Sets

The outdoor scenes are the heart of the tour. You’ll stroll through streets that are instantly recognizable to fans—such as the charming, cobbled alleys and period-appropriate storefronts that portray the fictional Poplar district. The guide offers anecdotes about how these locations are transformed on-screen, revealing that most of the filming occurs on location, not in studios. Several reviews mention how the guide’s passion shines through, sharing production tips and interesting tidbits, such as how often sets are reused or modified.

Learning Behind-the-Scenes Facts

Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to share behind-the-scenes stories. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the guide, Irene, is a retired nurse with a deep knowledge of the show and its medical themes, which adds credibility and richness to her storytelling. She explains how certain scenes are shot, how props are used, and even details about how the series has evolved over time.

Recognizable Filming Locations

You’ll have opportunities to capture photos of iconic facades and streets that viewers will recognize from the show. Some reviews note that the dockyard can look a little different in person—more like a working historic site—so the guide’s stories help bring the locations to life. One reviewer pointed out that the outdoor locations are primarily used to portray the streets of East London, but that much of the actual filming takes place in studios, which sets some expectations.

The Historic Dockyard Experience

After the guided walk, you’re free to explore the dockyard at your own pace. With over 100 Georgian and Victorian buildings, a collection of historic ships, and several exhibitions, this is more than just a backdrop for TV scenes. It’s a fascinating historic site with a rich military and maritime history, making it an appealing destination for history buffs as well as film fans.

Several reviewers mention that the dockyard alone is worth the visit. You can wander through the old warehouses, admire vintage ships like HMS Cavalier, and enjoy the various exhibits. One reviewer noted that the prop and costume gallery accompanying the tour adds extra value, providing a more immersive experience into the show’s production.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At roughly $55, this tour offers a balanced mix of location sightseeing, storytelling, and historic exploration. Given that it includes professional guides, the opportunity to photograph recognizable filming sites, and full access to Chatham Dockyard afterward, many visitors see it as good value. Some reviews mention booking well in advance—about 66 days ahead on average—indicating its popularity among fans planning their trip.

Critics say it might be a little light on actual props or studio sets, with some noting that the outdoor filming locations are sometimes just “standing about” spots with photos on display for context. Still, others appreciated that the guide’s storytelling and enthusiasm made up for the simplicity of some locations.

Transport-wise, the meeting point is accessible by public transportation, and the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan accordingly. The small group size (limited to 26 people) helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Fans of Call the Midwife will find this tour especially rewarding—it’s a chance to see real-life locations from the series and learn behind-the-scenes stories directly from passionate guides. It’s also ideal for history lovers interested in the maritime and industrial history of Chatham Dockyard. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative experience that combines movie nostalgia with a historic site, this tour hits the mark.

On the flip side, if you’re expecting a studio-style experience with extensive props or staged sets, you might find it somewhat less immersive. It’s more about the outdoor filming locations and the stories behind them.

Final Thoughts

This Call the Midwife location tour strikes a nice balance between film fandom and historic exploration. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for how the series uses real locations to bring its stories to life, plus a broader understanding of Chatham Dockyard’s past. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making the hour-and-a-half tour both educational and entertaining.

The upgrade from just a sightseeing walk to a cultural experience makes it worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of period dramas. The inclusion of free time to explore the dockyard’s historic ships and buildings only enhances the overall value.

For those looking to connect with the series on a more personal level while soaking in some local history, this tour provides a memorable, well-rounded outing. It’s best suited for lovers of the show, history aficionados, and those craving an authentic glimpse of British filmmaking.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and given the relaxed, outdoor nature, it’s suitable for older children and families. However, involvement depends on the group’s pace and interest level.

How long is the tour?
The guided walking part lasts roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, with additional free time afterward to explore the dockyard.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a professional guide, the walking tour of exterior filming locations, and full access to the historic dockyard.

Are transportation and hotel transfers included?
No, the tour begins at a designated meeting point in Chatham, and transportation to or from your hotel isn’t included.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility in case your plans change.

What should I wear or bring?
Since the tour is outdoors and involves walking, wear comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. A camera for photos is highly recommended.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an engaging way to see Call the Midwife’s filming locations, learn some fun behind-the-scenes facts, and explore Chatham’s historic dockyard, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for dedicated fans, history buffs, and anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic experience that combines TV magic with maritime history.