Chatham offers an unexpected mix of activities that appeal to different interests—whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of period dramas, or someone looking for a fun, creative outing. We especially like the ‘Call the Midwife Location Tour in Chatham, which combines a love of TV with a walk through historic dockyard scenes. It’s perfect for fans eager to see the filming locations firsthand and learn behind-the-scenes secrets. Meanwhile, the Salute to the ’40s festival captures the spirit of a bygone era with vintage cars and performances, ideal if you’re into retro events. And for those looking to unwind and get a little artsy, the Paint and Sip in Kent** offers a relaxed painting class suitable for all skill levels.
If you’re planning a trip to Chatham, you’re in luck—there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to learn about a beloved TV series, celebrate 1940s nostalgia, or try your hand at painting, you’ll find a memorable experience that suits your pace.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover three of the best tours and experiences in the area:
- A behind-the-scenes ‘Call the Midwife’ set tour in Chatham Dockyard that appeals to fans and history buffs alike [].
- An artistic ‘Paint and Sip’ workshop in Kent, perfect for those wanting to relax and create [].
- The Salute to the ’40s vintage festival at the historic dockyard, a lively event for families and history lovers [].
1. Call the Midwife Location Tour in Chatham
This 1.5-hour guided walking tour takes you around the exterior filming locations used in the popular TV series ‘Call the Midwife’. As a fan, you’ll enjoy walking in the footsteps of characters like Sister Julienne and Nurse Trixie, viewing recognizable street scenes and set pieces in the historic Chatham Dockyard. The guide dresses as a midwife, adding a fun touch that makes the experience feel immersive. During the tour, you’ll learn behind-the-scenes insights about the production process, how scenes were transformed from the dockyard into 1950s London neighborhoods, and see props used on set in the dedicated gallery. After the tour, you gain full access to the dockyard, which is home to over 100 Georgian and Victorian buildings, historic ships, and exhibits.
This tour is highly rated—4.5/5 from 464 reviews—and many visitors praise its detailed storytelling and authentic feel. One reviewer noted, “It’s a full day of fun, especially if you’re a fan of the show,” highlighting its appeal beyond just the filming locations. The tour costs approximately $55.21 per person, making it a reasonable choice for a unique, TV-inspired experience. It’s perfect for fans of period dramas, history lovers, or anyone wanting a leisurely walk with a sprinkle of TV magic.
Bottom line: If you want a mix of TV nostalgia and historic exploration, this tour offers excellent value and fun insights into the production of a beloved series.
2. Paint and Sip in Kent
For about 1.5 hours, you can relax, sip a drink, and create your own masterpiece at the Paint and Sip experience in Kent. This workshop is designed for people of all skill levels—no previous art experience is necessary, just a willingness to try. Led by an instructor, you’ll experiment with different painting techniques and colors, guided step-by-step as you produce a piece you’ll be proud of. It’s a chance to unwind, socialize, and unlock your inner artist, all while enjoying a drink or two in a friendly environment.
This experience appeals not just for the creative outlet, but also because it’s informal and inclusive. The emphasis is on having fun rather than creating a perfect artwork, which makes it ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a casual, enjoyable outing. Participants often mention the opportunity to challenge themselves and discover a new hobby without pressure. As a bonus, you’ll leave with your own painting, a memory of a relaxing time, and maybe even a new skill.
Bottom line: For a relaxed, social activity that combines art and conversation, this Paint and Sip session offers great value and a chance to try something new without any pressure.
3. Salute to the ’40s | The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Held annually in September, the Salute to the ’40s festival is a lively celebration of all things 1940s. Visitors can expect a full weekend of classic cars, military vehicles, live music, and family-friendly activities. The event transforms Chatham Dockyard into a bustling period market, with vendors selling vintage clothing, memorabilia, and delicious era-specific treats. The event features live performances—from swing bands to wartime reenactors—bringing the decade’s spirit alive. Kids can enjoy military displays, vintage fairground rides, and hands-on activities, making it a great outing for families.
What makes this festival stand out is its authentic recreation of the 1940s atmosphere. Visitors often comment on the impressive display of vintage vehicles and the chance to see military reenactments up close. The festival’s entry fee is about $39 per person, and it offers an immersive experience into a significant period of history, combined with entertainment and shopping.
Bottom line: If you’re a history enthusiast or just love retro festivals, this event delivers an energetic, family-friendly dive into the 1940s, making it a memorable day out.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re a ‘Call the Midwife’ fan, the set tour offers rich insights into TV production and historic dockyard scenery book here. For a relaxed artsy outing, the Paint and Sip provides a casual environment to create and unwind check availability. And if you want a lively, family-friendly event, the Salute to the ’40s festival is perfect for a weekend full of vintage fun more info here.
Think about your travel style—are you looking for an immersive experience, a creative break, or a festive outing? Booking early is advisable for the festival, especially in September, and for the popular tours during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Chatham offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes. If you love TV and history, the ‘Call the Midwife’ Location Tour provides a delightful peek behind the scenes. For a relaxing day experimenting with paints and enjoying good company, the Paint and Sip is a perfect choice. And for a vibrant, period-specific celebration, the Salute to the ’40s festival is a lively event that brings history to life.
For most travelers, selecting two experiences—perhaps the TV tour and the vintage festival—creates a well-rounded visit. If arts and crafts appeal more, then the paint workshop can be a highlight. No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable activities in Chatham. Enjoy your trip and make sure to bring back stories and souvenirs to last a lifetime.