The Ship was originally located a short distance away in Church Street from at least 1711, and possibly long before that, but moved to its present location in 1792. The current building is estimated to date from the early-to-mid 1600's, which pre-dates its use as a pub by 150 years or more. Most likely built as a private dwelling, it is of traditional Kentish Weatherboarding on a timber frame construction and is Grade II listed. Several extensions and modifications have been added over the years.
The address of the current pub has changed over time, having variously been given as Gads Hill and Layfield (or "Leyfield") Road (it sits between the two), but is now regarded as being in Court Lodge Road. The building itself hasn't moved!
Current landlords Nathaniel and Charlotte have been at the helm since March 2016, since when they have invested much time and effort into turning The Ship into Gillingham's premiere venue for live music.