Family Activities during School Holidays

Smugglers, pirates and tales of high seas adventure are just part of the great value school holiday activities taking place at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this summer.

From Saturday 25 July until Monday 31 August pirates Anne Bonny and Calico Jack take the helm of the Victorian Naval Ship HMS GANNET (1878) to tell stories of treasure and piracy.

Air Raid: Be ready to run for cover as the sirens sound and a costumed air raid warden rushes you to the safety of the Dockyard’s Second World War air raid shelter. Songs from the Blitz and the noise of aircraft overhead promise a full assault on the senses during this theatrical re-enactment.
Air-Raid tours: July 25 – 31, August 8 -14 and August 22 -28.

The Hidden Dockyard: Take a step back in time as this ‘behind the scenes’ tour takes visitors to areas of The Historic Dockyard not normally open to the public. See the Sail & Colour Loft where the women of the Dockyard would hand-stitch the giant ships’ sails and where the flags for HMS Victory were made. Visit the Grooms Quarters in the Stables complex and take in the tranquillity of the Royal Dockyard Church and Commissioner’s Garden.
Hidden Dockyard tours: August 1 – 7, August 15 - 21 and August 29 -31.

Tours operate on alternate weeks during the holidays at an additional cost of £5 for adults and £1 for children (under 5s are free). Tours last approximately one hour and can be booked on arrival at the Dockyard.

Meet the Smugglers: Bank Holiday Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August: Two days of smuggling skulduggery by the riverside. Youngsters can follow a smugglers trail, hunt for treasure in the lucky dip and join in many other ‘smuggler’ activities. Admission price includes activities and 12 month ticket.