Chatham Naval Memorial
A solemn tribute to naval heroes lost at sea, offering panoramic views and a peaceful space for reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chatham Naval Memorial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to naval heroes lost at sea, offering panoramic views and a peaceful space for reflection. 
"A beautiful, well-kept memorial offering a chance to pay respects and enjoy stunning views."
Push the Gates Open! :door:
Don't be deterred by the high walls; the main gates often appear locked but are usually open.
Combine with Fort Amherst :fort:
It's a short walk from the memorial to Fort Amherst, which also has free grounds to explore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Memorial Structure
Central area
An imposing monument on high ground, offering panoramic views and commemorating naval heroes.
Commemorative Plaques
Walls of the memorial
Read the names of brave sailors lost at sea, a poignant reminder of their service.
+1
Panoramic Views of Chatham
Top of the hill
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the town and surrounding areas from this elevated vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Times Before You Go
Embrace the History and Serenity
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Push the Gates Open! :door:
Don't be deterred by the high walls; the main gates often appear locked but are usually open.
Combine with Fort Amherst :fort:
It's a short walk from the memorial to Fort Amherst, which also has free grounds to explore.
Free Entry & Parking :car:
Admission is free, and a small car park is conveniently located nearby.
Check Hours Online :computer:
Verify opening times before visiting, as they can be inaccurate online.
Tips
from all over the internet
Push the Gates Open! :door:
Don't be deterred by the high walls; the main gates often appear locked but are usually open.
Combine with Fort Amherst :fort:
It's a short walk from the memorial to Fort Amherst, which also has free grounds to explore.
Free Entry & Parking :car:
Admission is free, and a small car park is conveniently located nearby.
Check Hours Online :computer:
Verify opening times before visiting, as they can be inaccurate online.
A Place for Reflection :pray:
Take time to read the plaques and reflect on the sacrifices of naval personnel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Chatham Naval Memorial a peaceful and well-kept site, offering a poignant opportunity to pay respects to naval heroes lost at sea. While the historical significance and views are highly praised, many express frustration with inaccurate opening times and gates being unexpectedly locked, leading to disappointment.
"Peaceful and kept well, shame it was all locked up on Sunday afternoon. We travelled 1hr to visit a family war memorial as it said online it was open when it was indeed locked up. Check before you travel as times are wrong and will be disappointed if you wanted to actually go in."
Amy Page
"I initially thought you couldn't go inside the grounds, as there is a high wall surrounding the outside. When I eventually found the large gates it looked as though they were locked shut, but they were not. So don't be afraid to push the gates open and go through into the grounds.
It's only a short walk from nearby Fort Amherst, and it's free to wonder around their grounds, which I highly recommend. (You can also book a guided tour through the tunnels)."
Phil
"Nice well kept memorials for the naval seamen who lost their lives in the wars .
Interesting read on the plaques of what and who they were.
Worth a visit from a historical point of view.
Free entrance and a little free car park very close by ."
S F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chatham Naval Memorial is situated on high ground overlooking Chatham. It's accessible by car, with a small free car park nearby. Public transport options may also be available; check local bus routes.
Yes, there is a small, free car park very close to the memorial, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk, especially if you're visiting nearby attractions like Fort Amherst.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Chatham Naval Memorial is completely free.
Opening hours can be inconsistent. It's highly recommended to check the official opening times before your visit, as many visitors have found it locked unexpectedly.
Yes, you can enter the grounds. The main gates may appear locked, but they are often unlocked. Push them open to enter.
Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesdays, seem to have a higher chance of the gates being unlocked. However, always confirm beforehand.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a memorial dedicated to Royal Navy personnel who died in World War I and World War II and have no known grave. It's one of three such memorials in the UK.
You can see the imposing central memorial structure, numerous commemorative plaques with names of the fallen, and enjoy panoramic views of Chatham.
Yes, the plaques offer detailed information about individuals lost at sea, making it a valuable site for historical research and remembrance.
Yes, it's generally a peaceful and well-kept place, ideal for quiet reflection and paying respects.
While the memorial itself is a self-guided experience, nearby Fort Amherst offers guided tours of its tunnels.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing architecture of the memorial, the detailed inscriptions on the plaques, and the sweeping panoramic views of Chatham from the hilltop.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. It's a great spot to capture historical monuments and scenic views.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography, and potentially fewer visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Kids
The panoramic views from the hilltop can also be a point of interest for children. Consider visiting when the weather is pleasant for a more comfortable outdoor experience. Ensure children understand the respectful nature of the site. History Buffs & Genealogy Enthusiasts
+1 Many visitors have found the names of relatives here, making it a deeply personal and significant site for genealogical research. +1 The memorial's historical context as a key Royal Navy base adds another layer of interest. Budget Travelers
Combine it with other free attractions like the grounds of Fort Amherst for a full day of exploration without spending a penny. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Chatham Naval Memorial
Chatham's historical significance as a principal Royal Navy base during World War I made it a fitting location for this monument. The memorial is particularly poignant as it commemorates those lost at sea, a fate shared by many sailors whose names are etched onto its walls. The memorial's location on a prominent hill offers not only a commanding presence but also breathtaking views over the town and the River Medway. This elevated position allows visitors to reflect on the vastness of the sea and the scale of naval operations. The sheer number of names inscribed serves as a stark reminder of the immense human cost of wartime conflicts.
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving, a chance to connect with history and honor the bravery of those who served. +1While the memorial itself is a place of quiet contemplation, its proximity to other historical sites like Fort Amherst adds to the richness of a visit. Exploring the surrounding area can provide a broader context for understanding Chatham's maritime heritage.
Visiting the Chatham Naval Memorial: Practical Advice
Upon arrival, you might notice high walls surrounding the memorial, which can be misleading. The main gates, though they may appear shut, are often unlocked. Visitors are encouraged not to hesitate but to push them open and proceed into the grounds.
For those interested in a more comprehensive historical experience, consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Fort Amherst. The grounds of Fort Amherst are also free to explore, and guided tours of its tunnels are available for booking.
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