Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Mission Christmas
Join the Marvellous Elf Inventors at The Historic Dockyard Chatham for Mission Christmas. Help a crew of ingenious elves ensure Father Christmas's journey runs smoothly by fixing their marvellous inventions. This immersive 45-minute guided experience culminates in a magical encounter with Father Christmas himself, complete with a special gift for each child.
What to Expect
Interactive Christmas mission with elves and Father Christmas.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Ample parking is available with no height restrictions. Dedicated bays for Blue Badge Holders and EV charging points are present. Motorhomes are welcome but cannot be parked overnight.
- Accessibility: The tour is fully accessible, with one section requiring access via a staircase or lift. One wheelchair user per session is facilitated. Dedicated quiet sessions are available on December 16, 2025, with reduced capacity, quieter music, and lower lighting.
- Pets: No pets allowed inside galleries, buildings, historic ships, or indoor areas, except for working guide and assistance animals.
Other Christmas Events Near Chatham
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, interactive, magical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (indoor event)
Special Events & Promotions
- Complimentary professional photograph with Father Christmas per group.
- Option to purchase additional photographs and a special Mission Christmas storybook.
- Dedicated quiet sessions available on December 16, 2025.
Location
Event Details
Duration
45 minutes per guided experience
Ages
Most suitable for ages 4-10, but all ages can enjoy. Children aged 3 and under require a ticket for a gift.
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust
Food & Drink
The Mess Deck Restaurant will be open, serving festive food, light meals, and hot chocolates. Festive hot chocolates with various flavors are available. Food and drink are not permitted inside the Mission Christmas experience.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive 20 minutes before your booked time slot to allow for parking, ticket processing, and a welcome talk before your experience begins.
- Dress warmly as the historic buildings are at ambient temperature, and consider wearing comfortable footwear for the indoor experience.
- Pre-book your tickets online, as advanced booking is essential and tickets are not available on the door.
- If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the venue in advance to discuss arrangements, especially regarding wheelchair access and quiet sessions.
- Consider pre-booking a festive hot chocolate to enjoy before or after your experience, but remember it cannot be taken into the Mission Christmas attraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is involved in the Mission Christmas experience?
It's a guided 45-minute immersive Christmas experience through transformed museum galleries, culminating in a private meet and greet with Father Christmas. You can then enjoy the shop and restaurant.
What age range is recommended for Mission Christmas?
While suitable for all ages, it's most enjoyable for children aged 4-10. Babies require a ticket if they are to receive a gift from Father Christmas.
Does my annual ticket include entry to Mission Christmas?
No, Mission Christmas is a separately ticketed event and is not included in an annual ticket to The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
What happens if I arrive late for my booked time slot?
While they will try to accommodate you, late arrivals cannot be guaranteed a place on another tour due to capacity limits and fire evacuation regulations.
Can I change the time or date on my ticket?
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. In exceptional circumstances, tickets may be transferred for a £10 administration fee.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.