Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour

Chatham Historic Dockyard: Call the Midwife Tour – A Practical Guide to a Filming Fan’s Dream

If you’ve ever watched Call the Midwife, you’ll know how captivating the show’s depiction of 1950s East London is. Now, imagine walking through the actual locations used for filming, led by a knowledgeable guide dressed in period costume who brings the show’s world to life. This 1.5-hour guided walking tour offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the beloved BBC series, set against the historic backdrop of Chatham Dockyard in Kent.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines film location insights with the history of the dockyard itself, making for a well-rounded visit. Plus, the access to props, costumes, and set recreations adds an authentic touch that fans will find especially rewarding. On the flip side, some visitors have noted that the walk can be a bit lengthy—about 30 minutes from the train station to the dockyard—so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits fans of Call the Midwife, history buffs interested in film sets, and anyone curious about the dockyard’s past. Whether you’re visiting with a group of friends, family, or solo, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations from the hit TV series Call the Midwife.
• Insightful guides who share behind-the-scenes stories and filming anecdotes.
• Self-exploration time after the tour allows for discovering historic ships and exhibits.
• Props and costumes from the show provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Historical context of Chatham Dockyard enriches the experience beyond the series.
• Accessibility for wheelchair users and children under five makes it family friendly.
• Flexible entry during opening hours (10:00 AM to 6:00 PM) with free parking.
• Great value for money, with many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your visit begins at the main meeting point at The Historic Dockyard on Church Lane, Chatham. Staff there are friendly and will give you a map and information about where to meet your guide, so arriving at least 20 minutes early is advisable to avoid missing the start. The tour itself lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll walk along streets that have been transformed to resemble Poplar Dock’s slums of the 1950s and 60s—an imaginative recreation that makes the past feel surprisingly tangible.

The guided walk is led by a costumed professional who not only narrates the filming stories but also provides context about the dockyard’s own history. For instance, you’ll learn how the dockyard’s architecture and layout were chosen to mimic London’s East End, and you’ll get behind-the-scenes tidbits like how sets were created to simulate snow or particular street scenes seen in the show.

While walking, expect to revisit some of the most memorable scenes—like Miranda Hart’s character or Jenny Agutter’s moments—and hear about how the film crews played with scenery, props, and costumes to craft the show’s authentic period feel. Reviewers have particularly enjoyed the props and costumes on display, which bring a tangible connection to the characters.

Exploring the Dockyard on Your Own

After the tour, you’re free to explore the historic site at your own pace. Many guests have appreciated this flexibility, citing visits to the historic warships or wandering through the Victorian rope factory. The entire dockyard is accessible during opening hours, and admission is included, so you can wander through the exhibits for as long as you like.

Some visitors, like one reviewer, mentioned how they loved exploring the old boats and ships, finding it fascinating to see the real-life counterparts of the show’s setting. Others have enjoyed the photo opportunities with costumes and props, which are sometimes available for purchase or viewing.

Guides and Atmosphere

The guides consistently receive high praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Multiple reviews mention guides like Heather, Irene, Helen, and Laura as being informative, friendly, and engaging. Their storytelling makes the experience lively and accessible, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious. For instance, one review mentions Irene’s lovely demeanor and her fantastic background stories that made the tour memorable.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a touch of humor and a genuine passion for the show’s history. The guides often show photos from the series, helping visitors visualize how the sets looked on screen versus in real life.

Practical Details and Value

Costing around $54 per person, this tour offers good value considering the access to filming locations, props, costumes, and a knowledgeable guide. The ticket includes entry to the entire dockyard, which can be explored after the tour at your leisure. If you’re a fan, that extra time to wander around historic ships and exhibits truly enhances the experience.

The meeting point is straightforward, and parking is free all day. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for mobility-challenged travelers and families with strollers. Children under five can join for free, which is great if you’re visiting with little ones.

The timing is flexible—just check the schedule for available start times. Since you can arrive at any time during opening hours, it’s easy to fit into your day. The guided commentary is in English, and booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

One of the highlights many reviewers mention is how the guides’ storytelling and use of props make the series’ scenes come alive. Several guests commented on how they appreciated hearing behind-the-scenes insights, which added depth to their understanding of both the show and the dockyard’s history. This combination of film and history makes the experience special—especially for those who love the series but also want a slice of maritime heritage.

On top of that, the set recreations and props like costumes give the tour an authentic and visually appealing aspect that photos will definitely capture. For fans, being able to see actual filming props or stand where characters once did adds a tangible connection to the series.

Who Should Visit?

The tour is perfect for Call the Midwife fans eager to see where the magic happens beyond the TV screen. It also suits history enthusiasts, film buffs, and anyone interested in Kent’s maritime past. Families with children will find it accessible and engaging, especially since children under five are free and the site is wheelchair friendly.

If you’re after a combination of entertainment and education, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this experience will leave you with plenty of stories to tell. It’s especially good for those who enjoy guided storytelling and visual props that bring TV worlds to life.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a unique blend of film location exploration and dockyard history, making it ideal for fans of Call the Midwife who want more than just a viewing experience. The guides’ wealth of knowledge and friendly attitude have garnered rave reviews, and the chance to explore the site independently afterward gives you flexibility.

The cost is reasonable given the access to sets, props, and the entire dockyard, representing good value for money. Expect a comfortable, engaging, and well-organized walk that leaves fans with a deeper appreciation of both the series and the historic maritime setting.

For those seeking an authentic, fun, and visually rich experience—especially fans—this tour could very well be a highlight of your visit to Kent.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under five are free of charge, and the tour is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for families.

How long is the walk?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, but you can explore the dockyard afterward at your own pace.

Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving at least 20 minutes before the scheduled start time is recommended. The staff at the entrance will provide a map and directions.

Can I visit the dockyard after the tour?
Absolutely. Your ticket grants full access to the historic dockyard during opening hours (10:00 AM to 6:00 PM).

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walking tour with a professional guide and entry to the dockyard and its exhibits.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour and site are wheelchair friendly, accommodating mobility needs.

Are there options for cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund at no extra cost.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will be walking outdoors, and the weather can be variable.

How do I get there?
The tour starts at The Historic Dockyard on Church Lane in Chatham. Parking is free, and public transport options like trains and buses are available nearby.

To sum it up, whether you’re a dedicated fan of Call the Midwife or just interested in historic filming locations, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of the beloved series combined with a visit to a significant maritime site. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling, along with the opportunity to see authentic props, make it a memorable experience for many. It provides excellent value given the depth of access and the engaging atmosphere, making it a recommended addition to any itinerary in Kent.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby