Explore Chatham Dockyard: The Official Call the Midwife Tour Experience

Step into the shoes of a 1950s midwife and uncover the authentic filming locations of the beloved BBC series "Call the Midwife" with this exclusive private walking tour in Chatham Dockyard, Kent. Known primarily as a historic naval site, Chatham Dockyard doubles as the gritty East End of London from the post-war era in the series, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience a living set packed with history and charm. With a costumed midwife as your guide, you traverse cobbled streets, former warehouses, and slum-like buildings that portrayed Poplar Dock's impoverished neighborhoods—key backdrops where much of the drama unfolds.

This 1.5-hour tour is an immersive journey that reveals how the Dockyard's industrial architecture became an emblematic setting for decades of stories centered on midwifery, community, and resilience. Along the route, you'll visit notable sites like the Lisbon Buildings, the exterior of The London Hospital, and the dockside areas by the Thames, recognizable to fans for many iconic scenes. The guide enriches the experience with insider anecdotes from the show’s production, sharing how the series seamlessly blends fact with fiction while highlighting the era’s medical and social challenges.

The tour’s partnership with Neal Street Productions, the show’s creator, provides access to original costumes and props, making this a standout experience that connects TV magic with historical reality. Whether you’re enamored with the series’ portrayal of midwives' bravery or fascinated by the Dockyard's transformation into an East London street scene, this tour offers a gentle-paced, intimate exploration suitable for all ages.

Chatham itself is an evocative place to visit, beyond its screen presence. The Dockyard's deep maritime heritage stretches back centuries, complementing the tour's focus with layers of industrial history. The location’s unique role as a filming hub makes it a standout destination for fans and history enthusiasts alike.

Prepare for uneven surfaces during the outdoor walk, so comfortable shoes are essential. The tour is private and customizable, ideal for small groups wanting a personalized experience. Public transportation and accommodations in nearby Medway make this a convenient day-trip or part of a longer Kent exploration.

Whether you’re a devoted fan of the series or a visitor intrigued by 20th-century history brought vividly to life, the Call the Midwife Tour at Chatham Dockyard offers an enriching, behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain’s most cherished TV dramas set against a backdrop rich in heritage and community spirit.