Things To Do
in Gillingham
Gillingham is a town located in Kent, United Kingdom. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and is known for its historic buildings and landmarks. The town has a bustling high street with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Gillingham also has several parks and green spaces, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Gillingham Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful greenery. Don't forget to stop by the café for a refreshing coffee.
Head to the nearby Riverside Country Park for a scenic walk along the Medway River. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy banks.
Wind down your day at a local restaurant, indulging in traditional British cuisine. Take a leisurely walk back towards your accommodation to conclude your day.
Visit the Gillingham Museum to learn about the local history and see fascinating exhibits. Be sure to check the schedule for any workshops available.
Explore the local art galleries, where you can appreciate and purchase works by local artists. Consider attending an art class if available.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro followed by a visit to a local theater for a play or live performance. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local arts scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical background with sites like the Royal Navy Warship HMS Gillingham
- Proximity to both the River Medway and green spaces, providing outdoor recreational opportunities
- Good transport links with easy access to London and surrounding areas via road and rail
- A growing community with family-friendly amenities and schools
- Affordable housing compared to nearby cities
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates compared to other regions
- Public transport options may be limited, particularly outside peak times
- Weather can be unpredictable, typical of the UK climate
- Industrial areas may detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of certain neighborhoods
- Limited shopping and entertainment compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Gillingham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Perfect for walking, picnicking, and enjoying nature
Offers activities like water sports, play areas, and open spaces for relaxation
Ideal for walking, cycling, and observing historic landmarks
Places to Visit in Gillingham
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park with trails and viewpoints offering panoramic views of Gillingham and the surrounding area.
A historic park with open green spaces and elevated viewpoints providing stunning views of the town and the River Medway.
A large park located along the River Medway with scenic views, wildlife, and ample photo opportunities.
Food in Gillingham
Gillingham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pie filled with locally sourced lamb and root vegetables, typically served with a side of buttered greens. Head to The Lamb Inn to savor this traditional dish.
Must-Try!
A classic regional dish consisting of herring, oats, and seasoning, often accompanied by a zesty parsley sauce. Sample this dish at The Riverside Fish Bar for an authentic taste of Gillingham.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Gillingham Farmers' Market, where you can discover local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked goods, and a variety of street food stalls offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gillingham, it is important to be punctual for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings. Punctuality is seen as a sign of respect for others' time.
The British place great importance on queuing in an orderly manner. When waiting in line, it is customary to stand patiently and take your turn.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Gillingham. Saying 'please' and 'thank you', as well as using polite language, is an important part of respectful behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Gillingham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Gillingham, United Kingdom is not customary and is generally not expected. However, in some cases, a service charge may be included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. It is always advisable to check the bill before tipping separately.
Payment in Gillingham, United Kingdom is commonly made using cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payment methods are widely accepted in most establishments. It is important to carry some cash as smaller shops and local vendors may not accept card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a good time to visit Gillingham as the weather starts to warm up and the surrounding countryside comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Gillingham, as the weather is generally warm and pleasant. Visitors can enjoy outdoor events, festivals, and waterfront activities. It's a lively time with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and attractions.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque setting in and around Gillingham. The weather starts to cool down, and it's a quieter time to visit, perfect for enjoying peaceful walks and scenic drives.
Winter in Gillingham can be cold and damp, but the town takes on a cozy atmosphere with holiday decorations and events. It's a great time for indoor attractions, cozy pubs, and enjoying the festive spirit of the season.
Gillingham at Night
Hiking in Gillingham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large ancient forest offering a variety of trails through beautiful woodland scenery, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
A large park offering picturesque walking trails around the lake and through the lush greenery.
A long-distance trail that provides stunning views of the Kent countryside, ideal for longer hikes.
A scenic area with pathways in the garden that are perfect for short hikes and leisurely walks.
A flat, easy walking route along the River Medway, offering pleasant views and access to several parks.
Aiports
How to reach Gillingham by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles from Gillingham, this airport primarily serves business travelers and offers short-haul flights across Europe.
Around 50 miles from Gillingham, Gatwick is one of the busiest airports in the UK, offering a wide range of international flight options.
Situated about 65 miles from Gillingham, Heathrow is the largest airport in the UK and serves numerous domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 45 miles from Gillingham, Stansted is a major hub for low-cost airlines and offers many European flights.
About 60 miles from Gillingham, Luton serves both domestic and international flights, and is known for its budget travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial or ethnic group, comprising various subgroups including White British, White Irish, and Other White.
Includes groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and Other Asian.
Includes individuals of Caribbean, African, and Other Black backgrounds.
Comprises individuals identifying as belonging to two or more ethnic groups.
Includes various smaller ethnic categories not covered by the main groups, such as Arab or any other ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Gillingham, with local teams such as Gillingham FC playing in the English Football League.
Rugby is also popular in Gillingham, with clubs providing opportunities for both youth and adult participation in the sport.
Cricket has a strong presence in the area, with several local teams and clubs fostering community engagement and competition.
Netball is widely played in Gillingham, particularly among women and girls, with various leagues and tournaments.
Athletics clubs in Gillingham encourage participation in various track and field events, catering to all age groups.
Swimming is a favorite recreational activity and is supported by local swimming clubs and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gillingham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Gillingham cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, with diverse offerings ranging from plant-based burgers to creative vegetable-based dishes. The Olive & Vine is particularly recommended for its vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free options at various establishments in Gillingham, including The Cricketers, which offers gluten-free versions of pub classics such as fish and chips.