Chatham’s character, shaped by centuries of maritime heritage and its position along the River Medway, deeply influences the variety of its local venues. The town’s history, rooted in naval tradition and industrial endeavour, is reflected in an architectural landscape that blends the past with the present. You can find public houses retaining their traditional charm, often within historic brickwork buildings that speak to their long-standing presence. Former warehouses and dockyard structures have been thoughtfully repurposed, now hosting contemporary leisure and community spaces, offering a tangible connection to Chatham’s working history.
The spirit of place is particularly evident in how these diverse spaces serve the community across its distinct areas. In The Historic Town Centre, period buildings house an array of cafes and shops, each contributing to the enduring street scene. Down by the water, Chatham Dockside presents a mix of leisure and retail within its revitalised setting, where the scale and form of industrial architecture have been adapted for modern use. Further afield, areas such as Medway City Estate feature community-focused venues and local eateries that underpin the daily rhythm of residential life. This directory offers an overview of these many places, reflecting the genuine activity and evolving character of Chatham’s local scene.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Food & Drink
Chan'sChan's is a restaurant on the High Street in Chatham, a key part of the town’s commercial area. The restaurant serves Cantonese cuisine, with a menu of classic dishes. Locals and visitors go to Chan's for dinner, enjoying a meal after work or at weekends.
View Info →Pub
The Thomas WaghornThe Thomas Waghorn is a pub on Railway Street in Chatham’s Historic Town Centre. The area has a traditional feel, and The Thomas Waghorn fits right in. This spot is known for its real ale selection and British cuisine, especially the pub grub platter.
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Taj CuisineTaj Cuisine is an Indian restaurant on Gun Lane in Chatham. You can find a relaxed atmosphere just outside the town centre. Taj Cuisine is known for its extensive menu of classic Indian dishes and the traditional spices they use.
View Info →Church
Moat House Christian Bookshop & Coffee ShopMoat House Christian Bookshop & Coffee Shop is a Church with both books and refreshments. Located on Crow Lane, this venue provides a peaceful break from the activity of Chatham. It's well known for its coffee and selection of Christian books.
View Info →Bubble Tea Shop
MoobooMooboo Bubble Tea is a retail space on High Street in Gillingham, offering a quick-service dining option. Known for its extensive menu, Mooboo has over 1,000 different drinks. Locals and visitors enjoy Mooboo for a fast, refreshing takeaway drink.
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Snack Bar & Best KebabSnack Bar & Best Kebab is a fast-casual eatery on High Street in Chatham. This part of town has a busy, practical feel, serving residents and those passing through. Snack Bar & Best Kebab has gained recognition for its kebab options.
View Info →296 total places
Chan's is a restaurant on the High Street in Chatham, a key part of the town’s commercial area.
View Info →Taj Cuisine is an Indian restaurant on Gun Lane in Chatham.
View Info →Church
Moat House Christian Bookshop & Coffee ShopMoat House Christian Bookshop & Coffee Shop is a Church with both books and refreshments.
View Info →Bubble Tea Shop
MoobooMooboo Bubble Tea is a retail space on High Street in Gillingham, offering a quick-service dining option.
View Info →Snack Bar & Best Kebab is a fast-casual eatery on High Street in Chatham.
View Info →Restaurant
Pizza GoGoPizza GoGo is a pizza restaurant in Gillingham.
View Info →84 total places
Pub
The Thomas WaghornThe Thomas Waghorn is a pub on Railway Street in Chatham’s Historic Town Centre.
View Info →Bar & Kitchen
Pier Five Bar & KitchenPier Five Bar & Kitchen is a contemporary bar and kitchen on Dock Head Road in Chatham’s Maritime Marina.
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The Queen CharlotteThe Queen Charlotte in Rochester is a local pub located on High Street, a key point in the town.
View Info →The Harrow Inn is a traditional pub on High Street in Chatham.
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The Prince of WalesThe Prince of Wales Chatham is a pub on Railway Street in the main pedestrian area of Chatham town centre.
View Info →The Oak is a pub on the High Street in Chatham.
View Info →39 total places
46 total places
Sports Centre
Medway Park Sports CentreMedway Park Sports Centre is a comprehensive sports facility on Mill Road in Gillingham.
View Info →Leisure Centre
Waterfront Leisure CentreWaterfront Leisure Centre is a key fitness and sports facility in Chatham.
View Info →Cafe in the Crypt is a cafe on The Brook in Chatham.
View Info →JD Gyms is a fitness centre on the Brook Street industrial estate in Chatham.
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