A Journey Through Time: The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Our family has always been drawn to historical sites, and the Historic Dockyard Chatham promised a unique blend of history and entertainment. As we embarked on the Call the Midwife Tour, I was eager to see how the dockyard transformed into the streets of 1950s and 1960s Poplar, London. The tour, led by our charming guide Irene, was a delightful experience, despite a small hiccup at the start. We were initially told our 1:00 PM tour was canceled, but Irene quickly resolved the mix-up, ensuring we didn’t miss a moment of this fascinating journey.

The dockyard itself is a treasure trove of history, with over 100 Georgian and Victorian buildings spread across an 80-acre site. As we walked through the cobbled streets, it was easy to imagine the bustling life of the past. The tour provided a behind-the-scenes look at the filming locations of the beloved BBC show “Call the Midwife,” and it was thrilling to walk in the footsteps of characters like Sister Julienne and Nurse Trixie. The gallery of original costumes and props added an extra layer of authenticity, making the experience all the more immersive.

Navigating the Dockyard: A Family Adventure

One of the challenges we faced was navigating the dockyard. The signage from Chatham Station to the Historic Dockyard was not as clear as we had hoped, and we found ourselves taking a few wrong turns. For families planning to visit, I recommend taking a bus from the station, as the walk can be quite long, especially with young children in tow. Once inside the dockyard, however, the adventure truly begins.

The dockyard is not just about “Call the Midwife”; it offers a wealth of exhibits and historic warships to explore. Our children were particularly fascinated by the submarine, though I must caution that the hatches are quite high and wide, so be prepared if you have little ones. Masks are required inside the submarine due to the close quarters, but this did not detract from the excitement of exploring such a unique vessel.

A Day Well Spent: Reflections on Our Visit

Despite the initial confusion and the long walk, our visit to the Historic Dockyard Chatham was a memorable experience. Irene’s humor and knowledge brought the tour to life, and her dedication to ensuring we had a great time was truly commendable. The dockyard itself is a testament to the rich maritime history of the region, and the “Call the Midwife” tour adds a delightful twist for fans of the show.

For families looking to combine education with entertainment, the Historic Dockyard Chatham is a must-visit. The blend of historical exploration and engaging activities ensures that both kids and parents are entertained. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and plan your route carefully to make the most of your day. As we left the dockyard, tired but happy, I couldn’t help but reflect on the importance of preserving such sites for future generations to enjoy.