Victorian Ropery

Experience life as a rope maker in Victorian times in our themed gallery and costumed guided tour. The year is 1875, the dockyard’s latest battleship HMS Alexandra has recently been launched by the Princess of Wales and the Ropery is in full production….

Our entertaining 40 minute tour gives visitors an insight into why rope was so important to the Navy in the Age of Sail and how it was made by the rope makers of Chatham. Take the opportunity to make your own rope before entering the truly impressive ¼ mile long ropewalk – where rope is still made commercially today.

The Victorian Ropery Tour is included within the overall Historic Dockyard ticket price but it is only available on a timed ticket basis which must be booked on arrival at Visitor Admissions.  Numbers are limited by nature of the experience.

From Monday through to Friday, Master Ropemakers will be presenting a 'live' demonstration once a day at 12.15pm.  Tickets to this daily event can be obtained on arrival at Visitor Admissions.  The demonstration includes an overview of how rope is made presented by one of our costumed guides.

Our Ropery Shop also allows you to purchase a variety of ropes made on our very own Ropewalk!

We now have an Online Store ( www.master-ropemakers.co.uk )