Gillingham’s identity, shaped by its maritime and military history, is apparent in its public spaces and venues. Its close ties to the Historic Dockyard in Chatham and the enduring presence of the Royal Engineers have created a distinctive built environment. Many establishments reflect this legacy, often within robust red-brick structures that once served civic or industrial purposes, alongside traditional Kentish pubs that have welcomed locals for generations. These settings give each venue a sense of place and a story within its walls. Exploring Gillingham reveals a blend of heritage and contemporary utility. In Gillingham town center, you’ll find established premises that speak to the area’s community life. Down by Gillingham Waterfront, modern spaces often coexist with glimpses of the area’s industrial past, offering unique settings. Further afield, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre offers a contemporary design suited to modern retail and leisure. This guide is a practical look at the venues available throughout Gillingham, reflecting its diverse character.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Sports Centre
Medway Park Sports CentreMedway Park Sports Centre is a well-equipped sports facility on Mill Road in Gillingham. It's a key spot for fitness and recreation in the area. This centre is known for its wide range of facilities, including multi-sport options and two swimming pools.
View Info →Food & Drink
Dallas Chicken & PizzaDallas Chicken & Pizza is a fast-food restaurant on Balmoral Road in Gillingham. The Balmoral Road area is residential and a useful local spot. Dallas Chicken & Pizza Gillingham is known for its fried chicken and pizza, with a simple menu.
View Info →Bubble Tea Shop
MoobooMooboo Gillingham is a bubble tea shop on High Street, a main road in Gillingham. It's a modern spot for a quick, refreshing drink. Mooboo specializes in a wide variety of bubble teas, with over 1,000 drink combinations.
View Info →Restaurant
The Grill BarThe Grill Bar is a restaurant on Gillingham Road, serving the Gillingham community. It’s known for its grill menu, with peri-peri chicken as a standout. Locals and visitors go to The Grill Bar for casual meals, quick takeaway, and drinks.
View Info →Nightlife & Music
Pier Five Bar & KitchenPier Five Bar & Kitchen is a bar and kitchen on Pier Five, providing a place to eat and drink with waterfront views. Located on the River Medway in Gillingham, it fits into the area’s maritime setting. It’s a useful spot for anyone in Gillingham looking for somewhere to eat or socialize.
View Info →Pub
The OakThe Oak is a pub in Walderslade Village, Gillingham, offering a traditional feel in a residential area of Kent. It's known for its fish & chips and hearty pub food. Locals and visitors go to The Oak for casual meals, after-work drinks, and watching live sports.
View Info →241 total places
Dallas Chicken & Pizza is a fast-food restaurant on Balmoral Road in Gillingham.
View Info →Bubble Tea Shop
MoobooMooboo Gillingham is a bubble tea shop on High Street, a main road in Gillingham.
View Info →Restaurant
The Grill BarThe Grill Bar is a restaurant on Gillingham Road, serving the Gillingham community.
View Info →Restaurant
Plan BurritoPlan Burrito offers Mexican-inspired food on Gillingham High Street.
View Info →Portuguese Restaurant
Os' CamacheirosOs' Camacheiros is a Portuguese restaurant on Ordnance Yard Road in Gillingham.
View Info →Bar Blu is a bar on Balmoral Road in Gillingham.
View Info →82 total places
Pier Five Bar & Kitchen is a bar and kitchen on Pier Five, providing a place to eat and drink with waterfront views.
View Info →Pub
The OakThe Oak is a pub in Walderslade Village, Gillingham, offering a traditional feel in a residential area of Kent.
View Info →Pub
The Ship and TradesThe Ship and Trades is a pub on Maritime Way in Gillingham Town Centre.
View Info →Pub Restaurant
The Hungry FoxThe Hungry Fox is a pub restaurant on Hempstead Valley Drive in Gillingham.
View Info →Micropub
The Prince of AlesThe Prince of Ales is a pub located on High Street in Gillingham Town Centre.
View Info →40 total places
41 total places
Sports Centre
Medway Park Sports CentreMedway Park Sports Centre is a well-equipped sports facility on Mill Road in Gillingham.
View Info →Sports Facility
Waterfront Leisure CentreWaterfront Leisure Centre is a health club on Woolwich High St in Gillingham.
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