Stunning historical buildings, beautiful outdoor landscapes and thriving events year round - all the things you can expect to find when stepping out in Tonbridge. Whether you’re looking to discover the hidden gems right on your door step like the Castle on the river, or bring the family together for an unforgettable Christmas experience, Tonbridge has got you covered, after all it’s in this beautiful destination’s nature…
Tonbridge Castle
Year round there are some pretty amazing festivals taking place at the glorious Tonbridge Castle, but let’s not forget, visiting the castle to learn about its history and walk its stunning grounds is an experience in itself…
Dating back 950 years, Tonbridge Castle is a proud landmark for the market town of Tonbridge and overlooks breath-taking views across the town. There’s so much history to be discovered right on your doorstep, so let’s transport you to a medieval world, where you can uncover some of the stories of kings, archbishops and tyrants. If that sounds like it’s right up your street, then an Audio Tour of the castle might be just the thing you and your family are seeking. This hour-long tour is included in your ticket price and brings the sounds of the sights you see to life on this interactive journey through time. After soaking in all the history, why not stay a little longer and explore the grounds further with a riverside walk or, if you feel it’s time to relax, then stop for a picnic on the Bailey Lawn amongst the surroundings of the picturesque castle.
Haysden Country Park
For those looking to slow down their heart rate and step into some luscious landscape with wildlife you needn't go far… because that’s another thing in Tonbridge's nature. On the outskirts of Tonbridge lies the Green Flag awarded park, Haysden Country Park which is home to a range of natural habitats such as river, grassland, freshwater lakes, marshland and woodland, covering an area of 65 hectares. A wander around this Natural England accredited park on a summer's day, with the birds chirping might sound like music to your ears. Why not bring the little ones to play in the adventure play area or add a little excitement to your day and check out the fishing and watersports facilities?
You can also step into National Landscapes, like the Kent Downs and High Weald NL. Exploring the stunning areas of natural beauty is just another part of Tonbridge's nature that needs to be discovered.
Artisan Markets
From July the last Sunday of the month will play host to Artisan Markets in the grounds of Tonbridge Castle. Find and shop handcrafted arts and crafts, sweet treats, foodie finds and even beauty products at this market held by passionate local artisans.
Christmas in Tonbridge
We're trying not to drop Christmas too early, but you'll thank us for putting this into your diaries for the festive season ahead. The aforementioned Tonbridge Castle will be brought to colourful life under the night sky thanks to Illuminate, with an extended trail, that lights up even more of the historic grounds than before - plus everything to keep you warm and fed through a winters night with a stacked food & drinks court! Make sure to book those tickets ahead of the opening on the 24th November.
Explore the surrounding areas...
First stop, the 14th-century moated manor house, gardens and estate, Ightham Mote. Enjoy a family day out here and you’ll find yourself surrounded by 700 years of history, architecture and stories. Explore the magical 24 acre gardens bordered by water features, lakes and woodland, with over 500 acres of landscape in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to explore. Your little ones can be entertained by their natural play area, splash in the natural stream, and play with the chimes, balance beams and stepping stones.
Next stop, the 14th century stately home and gardens, Penshurst Place. Let’s explore the house… In 1341, the medieval Baron’s Hall was completed and used as a country retreat for the Lord Mayor of London. The home has since been passed down through generations and has been looked after by the Sidney family since 1552. Did you know, the home and gardens were visited by King Henry VIII as he used it as a hunting lodge? Now, the house is a beautiful representation of Penshurst’s history and has even been showcased in popular TV and film productions. Don’t forget, there’s also 48 acres of Grounds, including the 11 acre formal Grade I listed Gardens to discover, and we have just the thing to help you and the family explore – an interactive map!
