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When people plan their vacations, they think of exploring the more popular areas like Oxford and London. However, just over an hour away from London, there is a small town brimming with fun activities. Gillingham is one of the five towns in Medway and it has attractions for people of all ages and interests. Stick sound as we explore the top things to do in Gillingham. Whether you’re looking to see fun relaxing spots or historical sites, this town has something for you.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Top 10 Things To Do In Gillingham
- 1.1 1. Royal Engineers Museum
- 1.2 2. The Historic Dockyard Chatham
- 1.3 3. Riverside Country Park
- 1.4 4. Gillingham Business Park
- 1.5 5. Chatham Ski & Snowsports Centre
- 1.6 6. Capstone Farm Country Park
- 1.7 7. Medway Queen
- 1.8 8. Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre
- 1.9 9. Priestfield Stadium
- 1.10 10. Chatham Naval Memorial
- 2 Spending A Day At Gillingham On A Budget
- 3 Best Time To Visit Gillingham
- 4 Fun Facts About Gillingham
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 6 Conclusion
Top 10 Things To Do In Gillingham
Life in Kent is nice and Gillingham is one of the reasons why. We have compiled a list of the 10 best things to do in Gillingham to make sure you have the most amazing experience during your trip.
1. Royal Engineers Museum
Discover Kent’s largest military museum, which also happens to be one of the most important military collections in the UK. The Royal Engineers features a huge range of weaponry and the major highlights are Wellington’s map from Waterloo, Zulu War weapons, a Harrier Jump Jet and a large V2 rocket.
Depending on when you visit during the year, you may even be able to catch some of the extra events the Royal Engineers hosts. You can also stop by the cafe to grab some snacks and beverages, while the Royal Engineers gift shop offers some great items for kids.
2. The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Explore one of Britain’s most important royal dockyards, the Historic Dockyard, Chatham. This dockyard holds over 400 years of history, having been around since 1618. There are a range of interesting things here, including interactive exhibitions, museums and galleries. You’ll find three historic warships, a working Victorian ropery and so much more.
There are plenty of group-friendly activities and experiences for all ages, from guided tours and coach tours. Tickets for this dockyard are valid for a year, giving you 12 months to enjoy the fantastic array of sites here.
3. Riverside Country Park
If you enjoy the great outdoors, a trip to Gillingham won’t be complete without visiting Riverside Country Park. This is one of Kent’s major attractions. The beautiful country park is perfect for everything from picnics to walks and cycling.
The park stretches over 100 ha (0.39 sq mi) along the side of the Medway Estuary and includes areas like Berengrave Local Nature Reserve and Motney Hill. It has various habitats, such as grasslands, ponds and salt marshes, which serve as a haven for wildlife.
Ashford, a nearby town in Kent, is another great location for a holiday trip.
4. Gillingham Business Park
The Gillingham Business Park is the place to go when you need to shop or dine within Gillingham. It serves the local community with numerous retail outlets, which offer everything from essential products to luxury items.
As you stroll through the park, you can observe the modern architecture of the buildings, each designed to cater to different needs. You’ll also get a glimpse into the town’s modern commercial side, providing an interesting contrast to other traditional touristy activities.
5. Chatham Ski & Snowsports Centre
Even lovers of snowsports are not left out during a trip to Gillingham. This town is home to Chatham Ski & Snowsports Centre, a facility for skiers and snowboarders. There are a number of ski and snowboard clubs at the centre where you can meet and learn skills from people with similar interests.
Chatham Snowsports Centre is only a short distance from some of the other main attractions, like Capstone Farm Country Park and the Royal Engineers. It is open all year and features a toboggan run, Alpine Lodge Café & Bar and a patio area.
You can also explore Rochester attractions during your trip to Gillingham.
6. Capstone Farm Country Park
The Capstone Farm Country Park is another one of Kent’s finest green spaces. Similar to Riverside, it offers opportunities for activities such as walking, cycling and much more. Capstone covers over 114 ha (0.44 sq mi) of former farmland, which includes diverse habitats such as woodlands, lakes, orchards and meadows.
Capstone Farm Country Park is fully family and dog-friendly, so everyone is welcome here. You’ll also find a picnic area and children’s play area. Depending on when you visit, you may be lucky to experience the Cancer Research UK Race for Life, which Capstone hosts annually on its bike course.
7. Medway Queen
Looking for a similar experience to the Royal Engineers Museum, you’d enjoy the famous Medway Queen. This paddle steamer is known as the ship that saved 7,000 soldiers during the Dunkirk evacuation in the Second World War.
You can visit Medway Queen at Gillingham Pier on Saturdays during the summer season. Climb aboard the ship and experience a special seaside excursion trip or relive the excitement of the Dunkirk rescue mission. Tickets cost £5 per adult, while children under 16 are welcome for free.
8. Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre
Hempstead Valley is the all-in-one choice of the local community when it comes to shopping, with more than 50 popular stores here. It’s home to the largest M&S in Medway as well as one of the largest Sainsbury’s in the whole of Kent.
Whether you’re looking for fashion, beauty items or homewares, you’ll find them at Hempstead Valley. The venue is also home to Nando’s, Subway and Costa Coffee for anyone looking to grab a beverage or a quick bite. To cap it up, the shopping centre holds a variety of events throughout the year, including free children’s activities.
9. Priestfield Stadium
Priestfield Stadium is the home ground of Gillingham Football Club, the favourite team of the local community. This historical stadium welcomes thousands on matchday, boasting a seating capacity of just over 11,000. Sports lovers looking for fun things to do in Medway won’t want to miss this one.
On match days, the streets around Priestfield Stadium come alive with excitement and you can experience this by visiting local pubs and eateries. The stadium also hosts other special activities and you may be lucky to catch an event during your visit.
History lovers will fancy a visit to the Chatham Naval Memorial in Gillingham. This memorial is located at the highest point of the Great Lines, an expanse of open space that once served as a part of the town’s defensive fortifications.
The structure, which is in the form of a tall obelisk, takes you back in time to reflect on the sacrifices of those who lost their lives in the First World War. In addition to the historical significance, this is just a good place to relax, with well-maintained gardens and a serene environment.
Those looking to enjoy some waterside experience near Gillingham should consider exploring Kent’s sandy beaches.
Spending A Day At Gillingham On A Budget
You don’t have to spend a lot to have a great time at Gillingham. You can have a fulfilling experience on a budget. You just have to prioritise the free attractions or those with cheap entry tickets. The following tips can even help you save more.
- Pack snacks: Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money, especially if you’ll be spending the day at a park.
- Look for discounts: Explore the official website or social media pages of most attractions for discounts and special events.
- Use public transport: Local buses can get you around without having to spend much. Walking is also a great option since most attractions in Gillingham are close to each other.
Hire a budget car from SDVH and get around Gillingham fast and easy. You can also explore our 5-seater vans for group travel.
Best Time To Visit Gillingham
Gillingham is welcoming all year round, but some months may be better depending on the particular event or attraction you want to see. It has similar weather to other cities in England.
Spring offers mild temperatures, fewer crowds and blooming flowers. Summer is warmer, with long days, making it perfect for exploring the great outdoors and enjoying picnics. Autumn is mild, like spring. Enjoy the changing colours in parks and along the river. Winter has probably the harshest weather, but you get to experience the holiday festivities and special events.
Fun Facts About Gillingham
To invoke more interest in Gillingham, here are some fun facts about this town:
- Gillingham was once part of the Saxon Kingdom of Kent.
- The name ‘Gillinghams’ is of Old English origin and means ‘the homestead of Gylla’s people’.
- Despite being an urban area, Gillingham boasts a number of parks and green spaces.
- Gillingham is the birthplace of William Adams, who founded the first Japanese navy.
- Gillingham Football Club is Kent’s only team in the football league.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Attractions In Gillingham?
The top attractions in Gillingham are Royal Engineers Museum, Chatham Ski & Snowsports Centre and Priestfield Stadium. These sites cater to people of different interests, from history buffs to adventurers and football lovers. Other popular places worth visiting in Gillingham are the Medway Queen, Capstone Farm Country Park and the Historic Dockyard.
Where Can I Take Boat Tours In Gillingham?
You can take boat tours in Gillingham at the Historic Dockyard Chatham. The royal dockyard offers tours that take you past Rochester Castle, Upnor Castle and the Chatham Dockyard itself. These tours are usually ‘guided’ and an expert narrator will provide insight into the history of the town and its local community.
Are There Local Community Markets In Gillingham?
Yes, there are local community markets in Gillingham. This town has markets that offer everything from fresh produce to crafts. One option is the Gillingham Market, the town’s most popular market, offering fruits, meats and even clothing for sale. Medway Artisan Market is also a great choice if you’re looking for jewellery, art and home decor.
What Annual Events Or Festivals Take Place In Gillingham?
Gillingham Carnival and Gillingham Christmas Lights Switch-On are some of the annual events or festivals that take place in Gillingham. Gillingham Carnival is probably one of the town’s most anticipated events, featuring a parade and dancers on the streets. During the Christmas Lights Switch On, the High Street comes to life with beautiful lights and there’s live music and performances.
Where Can I Stay In Gillingham?
You can stay at a hotel or bed and breakfast in Gillingham. Gillingham offers comfortable hotels and charming bed and breakfasts to suit different budgets. You also have to consider the distance to the attractions you plan to visit. Some of the best accommodation options in this town include the King Charles Hotel and the Balmoral Guest House.
Conclusion
Gillingham is often overshadowed by other towns and neighbouring cities around Kent, but a simple visit to this town will help you realise why it’s a great option for a holiday. Whether you’re a fan of the great outdoors or more interested in exploring historical sites, you sure won’t run out of things to do in Gillingham. So, hire a vehicle today, embark on this trip and get ready for a wonderful experience.
