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Chatham is a historic port town situated on the River Medway. It blossomed into a centre of naval importance when Queen Elizabeth I built a dockyard there in 1568, which operated until 1984. The dockyard is now a much-loved museum and venue for large-scale events.
Chatham was first recorded as Cetham in 880 and even mentioned in the Domesday Book. The A2 motorway passes along the line of an ancient Celtic route paved by the Romans from Dover to London, and named ‘Watling Street’ by the Anglo-Saxons. Much of its fame comes from its strategic position as a naval centre, after the Royal Dockyard was built there. A Victorian rope works still operates today, manufacturing the longest naval ropes in the world. The Dockyard was also used to build many submarines.
Due to its strategic importance, there are various other fortifications and castles in the area.
Charles Dickens grew up in Chatham and described his time growing up there as the happiest period of his life. Later on in life, he moved back to Gad’s Hill close by, and many local scenes are incorporated into his novels.
Chatham is full of quaint and independent little shops selling handmade items and foods, thus making it a worthy place to hold KArtsCon. There is no shortage of cafés, restaurants and pubs when you feel the need to refresh yourself.
Browse, do a walking tour, enjoy.
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