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The Historic Dockyard Chatham

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Venue Type

Historic Venue

City

Chatham

Region

South East

Standing

700

theatre

400

dinner

400

bedrooms

About Venue

The Historic Dockyard Chatham is one of the UK's most remarkable heritage event destinations, offering an extraordinary collection of historic buildings, exhibition halls and unique event spaces set across an 80-acre former Royal Navy dockyard. With more than 400 years of maritime history, the venue provides an unforgettable backdrop for conferences, gala dinners, product launches, exhibitions, filming, outdoor events and private celebrations. Following the reopening of its visitor attraction for the 2026 season, organisers can once again enjoy one of the country's most distinctive event destinations.

From elegant Georgian buildings and historic dockside spaces to dramatic industrial venues and waterside settings, The Historic Dockyard Chatham offers exceptional flexibility for events of all sizes. A dedicated events team, in-house catering partners and extensive outdoor areas make it suitable for everything from intimate board meetings to large-scale corporate events and public festivals.

Event Spaces

Fitted Rigging House

The Dockyard's flagship event venue accommodates up to 700 standing, 400 theatre, 400 banquet or 250 cabaret. Featuring exposed brickwork, vaulted ceilings and impressive industrial architecture, it is ideal for conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions and large corporate events.

Commissioners' House

An elegant Georgian mansion offering beautifully restored reception rooms and private dining spaces. Suitable for executive meetings, private dinners, weddings and receptions, with capacities of up to 120 guests.

No. 3 Slip

One of the Dockyard's most iconic covered outdoor structures, accommodating large receptions, exhibitions, product launches and automotive events beneath its vast timber roof.

Boiler House

A contemporary industrial event space ideal for conferences, networking events, dinners and presentations, combining historic character with modern event facilities.

The Smithery

A flexible exhibition and event venue suitable for conferences, exhibitions, receptions and cultural events within one of the Dockyard's most impressive heritage buildings.

Additional Historic Spaces

The Dockyard also offers a variety of meeting rooms, historic galleries, outdoor courtyards and unique maritime locations that can be hired individually or as part of larger events.

Facilities and Services

Historic event venues, exhibition halls, outdoor event spaces, dedicated event management, in-house catering partners, in-house AV support, WiFi, staging, production support, extensive parking, filming locations, exclusive hire opportunities and riverside settings.

Location and Access

Located in Chatham, Kent, The Historic Dockyard is approximately 40 minutes from London St Pancras by High Speed rail. The venue offers excellent road access via the M2 together with extensive on-site parking for delegates and visitors.

Ideal For

Conferences
Gala Dinners
Awards Ceremonies
Exhibitions
Product Launches
Networking Events
Christmas Parties
Filming & Photography
Outdoor Events
Private Dining

Key Features

Multiple Historic Event Spaces
Up to 700 Standing
Up to 400 Dinner
80-Acre Heritage Site
Grade I & II Listed Buildings
Waterside Location
Exclusive Venue Hire
Free Parking

Why Hire

Few venues offer the scale, flexibility and character of The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Whether hosting a conference in a restored industrial hall, a gala dinner beneath historic timber beams or a product launch surrounded by Britain's maritime heritage, every event benefits from a truly unforgettable setting supported by an experienced events team.