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Get your spook on this Halloween with a fun-filled calendar of family-friendly adventures, ghostly experiences, pumpkin picking and seasonal treats across Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding countryside.
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Enjoy the great outdoors and visit an outdoor cinema event in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells this summer.
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There’s no better way to watch the World Cup than in a full pub, with a big screen and an amazing atmosphere. Royal Tunbridge Wells offers a great range of sports bars and traditional pubs to enjoy the football.
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When the weather heats up, there’s nothing better than a great British beer garden. And there are so many great options to pick from in Tunbridge Wells. Whether you’re looking to pair your pub visit with a walk, National Trust property or are in need of something to entertain little ones, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our roundup of the best beer gardens in and around Tunbridge Wells
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Literary Line Up Revealed The Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival is back for another year and with a whole host of literary stars. From poets Brian Bilston to Donna Ashworth to the famous faces of Gyles Brandreth and Rory Bremner – no name but a few! Running from 1 to 10 May 2026, there are various venues across Royal Tunbridge Wells hosting some of the biggest names in literature. We’ve put together our guide to this year’s literary festival so you don’t miss a thing! Somewhere a Boy and a Bear – Happy Birthday to Winnie the Pooh – with Gyles Brandreth 4 May at Calverley Grounds In this new biography Gyles Brandreth tells the remarkable story of A A Milne – and of the ‘bear of very little brain’ who went on to become a global phenomenon. Drawing on his friendship with Milne’s son, the real Christopher Robin, Gyles Brandreth has produced a revealing and intimate portrait of a prolific author whose legacy came to be defined by his most famous creation, and of the divided Milne family who for many years had a conflicted relationship with the iconic bear. Book tickets > An Audience with Rory Bremner Head to the Assembly Hall Theatre for what promises to be an unmissable hour of impressions, side-splitting humour and fascinating anecdotes, served alongside personal insight and reflection. Book tickets now > Margaret Thatcher – Iain Dale, in conversation with Mike Martin MP 9 May at Trinity Theatre Author, journalist and satirist Iain Dale joins Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin to discuss his short biography of Margaret Thatcher. Published in 2025, it aims to introduce her legacy to a new generation, covering her 1979 election as a pivotal turning point, her key role in ending the Cold War, and her domestic economic reforms. Book tickets > Johnny Ball – My Previous Life in Comedy, plus a few stories that must be told!! 10 May at Trinity Theatre Join television personality, writer and populariser of mathematics Johnny Ball, to talk about his recently published autobiography (volume 2) “Stories that must be told”. Hear about the highs and lows of Johnny’s years in the entertainment industry, tales from his stand up comedian years and his seventeen years as BBC TV presenter. Book tickets > See full line up For poetry lovers Brian Bilston 1 May at Trinity Theatre Coined the Banksy of poetry, Brian Bilston will take audiences through the how’s, whys and what’s of reading, writing and enjoying poetry every day. Donna Ashworth and Davina McCall 4 May at The Assembly Hall Theatre Join Sunday Times No.1 bestselling poet Donna Ashworth and journalist and presenter Davina McCall MBE for an uplifting and deeply personal evening including readings from Donna, an audience meditation, and space for questions. Later Life Letter – an evening with Luke Wright 5 May at The Forum Later Life Letter tells the story of Luke [...]
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From the historic Pantiles to the ultra-modern Amelia via a plethora of parks and green spaces, there’s plenty for families, couples and solo-travellers alike. So, sit back and relax as we share the best things to do on a weekend trip to Royal Tunbridge Wells.
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Whether you’re looking for a romantic meal, or something a bit different this year, there are plenty of fun things to do this Valentine’s Day in Tunbridge Wells. With 14th February falling on a Saturday this year, it’s the ideal time to get out and about with your loved one (or a group of friends!). From pocket-friendly to treat-yourself activities, we’ve rounded up some of the best activities, offers and deals this Valentine’s Day. Something a littel different Take a Romantic Train Ride Ride the Spa Valley Railway and enjoy a spot of Afternoon Tea. Leaving Tunbridge Wells at 2pm, this is relaxing and unique way to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one! Love is in the air at The Pantiles Head to the Pantiles over Valentine’s weekend and enjoy their themed Love Is In the Air Market. The ideal place to browse for gifts or fresh food. And what’s more there’s plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants on The Pantiles to enjoy at the same time. Dinner and Live Music at The Spa Hotel Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with an evening of great food, a warm atmosphere and live music. A five-course tasting menu awaits at The Spa Hotel, accompanied by Sally Cranham’s romantic vocals to create the ultimate Valentine’s evening. Valentine’s Day Dining in Tunbridge Wells The Brasserie at One Warwick Park are offering both dinner and afternoon tea options, so whatever your taste, there’s something to indulge in this year! Afternoon Tea prices start from £32 per person. The Hand and Sceptre are offering a three course set menu for £39.95 per person and for an additional £20 upgrade and an enjoy an extra side and a luxury bottle of wine with choices including Moët & Chandon and Whispering Angel. Cote are offering are set menu all week from 9 – 15 February but a special Valentine’s Day set menu of two courses for £32.50 or three courses for £37.50! For one day only on 14th February, The Barn in Royal Tunbridge Wells is offering four courses, coffee plus a complimentary Limoncello for £36.95 per person. Venture to Willow and Sage in Cranbrook on13th or 14th February a three-course dinner from £39.99 per person. Or a sweet sharing platter brunch and bucks fizz for £30. For a slice of luxury, why not try The Kentish Hare’s 7 course Tasting Menu. Featuring Cornish Lemon Sole and an Aged Moorland Beef Fillet. At £120 per person, this is a real treat yourself Valentine’s Day option! You may also be interested in:
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From the historic Pantiles to the ultra-modern Amelia via a plethora of parks and green spaces, there’s plenty for families, couples and solo-travellers alike. So, sit back and relax as we share the best things to do on a weekend trip to Royal Tunbridge Wells.
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Perfectly positioned between London and the coast, West Kent lives up to the Garden of England title with its rolling countryside, historic houses and award-winning vineyards. Conveniently located just a short train journey from London or Gatwick Airport, West Kent is the perfect countryside retreat. There are three popular towns at the heart of West Kent: Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Royal Tunbridge Wells. Sevenoaks is famed for its independent shops, cafes and nearby Knole house and park whilst Tonbridge offers shops, restaurants and its famous castle to explore. Royal Tunbridge Wells is a Georgian spa town best known for The Pantiles, home to the Chalybeate Spring and a colonnaded walkway lined with quality eateries. Sevenoaks Discover Sevenoaks district, located within the beautiful Kent Downs and High Weald National Landscape. This area offers lively market towns (Sevenoaks and Westerham) and charming villages, surrounded by stunning countryside, including nature reserves and extensive footpaths with mesmerizing views stretching across the Garden of England. Sevenoaks is a thriving food and drink hotspot, boasting vineyards, breweries, and gourmet dining alongside cosy pubs and independent shops. This culinary scene is complemented by the area’s wealth of historic sites—from ancient castles and stately homes to vibrant gardens—truly showing that Sevenoaks has it all. The area is also home to major international sporting venues, such as Brands Hatch and London Golf Club. A memorable day out is always nearby, made easy by fast rail links between London and Sevenoaks and close proximity to motorways and Gatwick Airport. Visit Sevenoaks Tunbridge Wells Tunbridge Wells is known for its outdoor pursuits with most of the area falling in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And with two charming towns, Royal Tunbridge Wells and Cranbrook, it really is town and country at its very best. Enjoy the great outdoors with walks among the conifers at Bedgebury Pinetum or take in the beauty of Bewl Water, a large scenic resevoir with nature trails and watersports. Plus with not one but two National Trust properties nearby, including the world-renowned Sissinghurst Castle Gardens. Explore the villages and take in the quintessential English countryside charm with a cosy pub visit! Explore Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge and Malling Quaint villages and a whole host of history await in this beautiful corner of Kent. Visit the market town of Tonbridge and the 11th century Tonbridge Castle. This is Kent's best example of a motte-and-bailey gatehouse, where audio tours and interactive exhibits bring history to life. Plus, some of the best-loved towns and villages in Kent can be found in this area, with instagrammable Aylesford and the bustling West Malling with its pubs, restaurants and tea rooms. Discover Tonbridge & Malling Things to do in West Kent There are plenty of things to do in the local area, including a number of historic houses and castles to explore. Hever Castle is located near Sevenoaks. The [...]
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Four new heritage plaques and a new trail map will help local residents and visitors discover more about the people, places, and stories that have shaped Hawkhurst’s unique heritage.
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Outdoor adventures await in Tunbridge Wells Summer is the best time of year to enjoy the great outdoors! From park safaris, perfect for little ones, to Demelza's Trail With a Tail and much more! Take a look at our Go Outside Guide, the ultimate companion to things to do in the outdoors this summer, in Tunbridge Wells. Live music events Family-friendly outdoor adventures Food & Drink Put on your hiking boots Delve into history and heritage Live music Live music at The Pantiles For the ultimate food and live music event, grab a ticket to Live at The Pantiles every Thursday across summer. Enjoy from the pop-up-bar or with a meal at Essence on The Pantiles, The Tunbridge Wells Hotel or La Casa Vecchia. Or head to Local and Live Live music fans can enjoy a calendar of events across town in venues including The Forum, Trinity Theatre, The Sussex Mews, Sankeys and more! The events run from 22 to 25 August and the entire festival is free to attend. Music at Scotney Castle Join Scotney Castle on 15 August for An Evening with The Swinging Little Big Band. Set against the stunning backdrop of Scotney's mansion house, enjoy a summer evening filled with swing-era classics and Vegas-style renditions of contemporary hits. Opera in the Open at Bayham Abbey The popular opera spectacular at Bayham Old Abbey is back for another year. Featuring operas of Mozart, Rossini, Puccini, Gilbert & Sullivan and many more! Head to this English Heritage site for a wonderful operatic display with one of the best backdrops in Tunbridge Wells. Family adventures Demelza’s Trail with a Tail Kicking off on 11 July and running for nine weeks, Trail with a Tale will see beautiful art sculptures pop up across Royal Tunbridge Wells. Help your little ones find all the sculptures hidden across the town. Summer of play at Scotney Castle Set in the beautiful meadow at Scotney Castle, join the Summer of Play where families are invited to enjoy a mix of activities with a series of themed zones including nature, sports, creative and games zones. Park safaris with The Amelia Dig out your bug boxes as Park Safaris are back! Join Dr Ian Beavis, an expert in the natural world, for fun, lively and informative trails across the parks of Tunbridge Wells. Stick Man Fun Day at Bedgebury Pinetum Bedgebury Pinetum’s resident children’s trail features family-favourite Stick Man. Open every day over summer, it’s the ideal way to enjoy the great outdoors with little ones. For an extra slice of Stick Man fun, head to the forest on 23 August for the Stick Man Fun Day where you can meet the beloved character, enjoyed themed craft stations, face painting and enjoy the trail Dragon Boat Race Family Fun Day at [...]
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Royal Tunbridge Wells is one of the most dog-friendly towns in Kent. We've listed all of the dog-friendly shops in Royal Tunbridge Wells, to make shopping with your furry companions even easier!
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From the historic Pantiles to the ultra-modern Amelia via a plethora of parks and green spaces, there’s plenty for families, couples and solo-travellers alike. So, sit back and relax as we share the best things to do on a weekend trip to Royal Tunbridge Wells.
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If you want to find out how to spend your Easter weekend in Tunbridge Wells, look no further than this comprehensive guide. Royal Tunbridge Wells is surrounded by some of the finest stately homes and castles in Kent and Sussex, many with connections to well known figures from history. The reputation and beauty of the Garden of England is no more apparent than it is here!
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Everyone loves discovering new places. From small eateries with glorious food, to woodland walks perfect for the whole family. We’ve rounded up our top pick of lesser-known gems across the borough.
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Whether you’re looking to get out and about in nature or keep cosy indoors, we’ve rounded up the top 10 things to do in Tunbridge Wells this February.
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Whether it's visiting the stunning grounds, having something yummy at cafe, having a mooch around the 14th-Century house or taking the children to burn off energy at the Adventure Playground, there's lots to love about Penshurst Place.
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If you're wondering what an ideal weekend with your family looks like in Tunbridge Wells then read on! Here's your ultimate guide that'll please everyone in your brood.
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Want to know what local National Trust is the best place for families? Clare Lush-Mansell visits Scotney Castle during October Half Term and here's what she thought.
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Discover the best places to work from in Tunbridge Wells! Plan a workcation to Tunbridge Wells & enjoy coworking spaces, coffee shop hopping & tasty local food!
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Ever wondered how to spend an afternoon in Rusthall? Here's how to explore the quaint village, just 2 miles to the west of Tunbridge Wells.
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Want to know what local National Trust is the best place for families? Clare Lush-Mansell visits Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Cranbrook Museum, one sunny morning to see what it was like.
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Clare Lush-Mansell, founder of My Tunbridge Wells is back with more reasons why she loves Tunbridge Wells from the shopping, well-positioned location and its rich history and culture.
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Hear from Clare Lush-Mansell, founder of My Tunbridge Wells who has now lived in Tunbridge Wells for 17 years and why she thinks Tunbridge Wells is such a teriffic place to live.
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Local foodie, Charlotte, shares her favourite places to eat and drink around Cranbrook. A charming town with weatherboarded houses, a windmill and quaint high street.
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Nestled in the heart of Kent, the picturesque villages of Lamberhurst and Goudhurst offer a delightful escape for those seeking a quintessential English countryside experience. With their historic charm, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local culture, these hidden gems make for a perfect 48-hour getaway.
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Looking for an alternative to the traditional dinner and a movie for your next date night? Whether you’re looking for ideas of how to impress on a first date, or something special to do with your long-term partner, here are some alternative ways to spend time together in Tunbridge Wells…
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Cranbrook & Sissinghurst, the hidden gems of Kent Nestled within the picturesque countryside of the High Weald of Kent, England, two hidden gems await those who seek a blend of historical charm and natural beauty.
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Planning a wedding? Congratulations! Brides-to-be share this with your bride tribe and allow the preparation of the Hen Do of your dreams - in good old Sunny Tunny of course - begin. Whether you’re a bride who wants to be pampered and float on cloud nine or the bride who wants to go all out with bars and a boogie for your last rodeo, you’ll find it in Tunbridge Wells.
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You might not associate Tunbridge Wells with a good girl’s trip but I’m here to tell you exactly why you should and there’s so much to do to suit your mood. Ready to start your next trip in style? Let’s go girls!
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Ever heard of Subbuteo? Named after a bird of prey, it was first invented over 75 years ago, in no other than Langton Green in Tunbridge Wells - yes really! Subbuteo continues to be hugely popular all over the world. Clubs, leagues and social media accounts are dedicated to the game.
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The Tunbridge Literary Festival makes a return to the town this May and is set to yet again enthral and engage audiences. Want to see who's headlining? Read on!
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The beautiful game… of table top football, that is! Brace yourselves, Subbuteo fans, because the 2024 FISTF World Cup is coming home to Tunbridge Wells. That's right, this historic town in Kent, beat out international heavyweights like Rio de Janeiro to host the prestigious tournament.
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With a recent study by Forest Research revealing that 95% of people identified positive mental wellbeing, escape, freedom, fun and enjoyment as key benefits of getting active in the forest, we take a look at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest’s top 10 experiences to get you moving in nature that you may not have discovered yet!
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Recently added to the much-loved PIG hotel collection is Groombridge Place & Gardens, set to open in 2025. It's one of the most renowned and historic buildings straddling the border of East Sussex and Kent. Groombridge Place is a moated manor house in the village of Groombridge southwest of Tunbridge Wells.
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Over 12,000 foodies from Tunbridge Wells and beyond were treated to a glorious weekend of sunshine and delicious delicacies at the lip-licking Sankey’s Spring Food Festival at The Pantiles on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May.
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Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has a range of summer activities for the whole family to enjoy.







