A Journey Back in Time

As the train gently rolled into the Medway region, I felt a familiar sense of anticipation. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks was a comforting reminder of the many journeys I’ve taken across Europe, each one a tapestry of memories woven with the threads of history and nostalgia. This time, my destination was the Historic Dockyard in Chatham, a place that promised to transport me back to the 1950s and 60s, the era of ‘Call the Midwife’.

Upon arrival, the dockyard’s grandeur was immediately apparent. The air was thick with the scent of the sea, and the towering masts of historic ships stood as sentinels of a bygone era. It was here that I would embark on the Call the Midwife Tour, a gentle-paced walking tour that promised to reveal the secrets behind the beloved BBC series.

Guided by Stories

Our guide, Eileen, was a beacon of warmth and knowledge. She greeted us with a smile that seemed to defy the dreary weather, and as we set off, her enthusiasm was infectious. Eileen was not an actress, but her storytelling prowess brought the dockyard to life. She painted vivid pictures of the scenes filmed here, from the bustling streets of Poplar to the intimate moments within Nonnatus House.

Despite the rain, Eileen ensured our comfort, guiding us to sheltered spots where we could listen to her tales without the distraction of the weather. Her dedication was evident, and she made sure that everyone, including those with mobility challenges, could enjoy the tour. As we moved from location to location, I was struck by the authenticity of the settings, each one a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that ‘Call the Midwife’ is known for.

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

The tour culminated in a visit to the museum, a treasure trove of memorabilia from the series. Here, I found myself face to face with Barbara’s wedding dress, the old dining table from Nonnatus House, and other artifacts that seemed to whisper stories of their own. It was a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling, and how it can transcend the screen to touch our lives in unexpected ways.

As I wandered through the exhibits, I couldn’t help but reflect on the parallels between this journey and my own travels by train. Both are experiences that invite us to slow down, to savor the moment, and to appreciate the beauty of the past. The Call the Midwife Tour was more than just a walk through filming locations; it was a journey through time, a chance to step into the world of a beloved series and see it through new eyes.

As I boarded the train back home, the rain had finally ceased, leaving behind a sky painted with the soft hues of dusk. The journey had been a reminder of the joy of slow travel, of taking the time to explore and discover, and of the stories that connect us all. I left Chatham with a heart full of memories and a promise to return, perhaps on a sunnier day, to once again walk the cobbled streets of history.