Christmas markets, lights switch-ons, Santa's grottos, pantomimes, carol concerts and festive days out, gathered in one place. From town-centre switch-ons and craft fairs to winter light trails and steam-train Santa specials, here's what's on near you this Christmas, with dates, times and prices so you can plan the season.
All day Saturday in Tunbridge Wells
1
· 09:00 – 19:00
Tunbridge Wells Christmas Lights Switch-On
Tunbridge Wells kicks off the festive season at Royal Victoria Place with a free day of Christmas fun, building up to the big moment when the town's lights are switched on at 4.30pm.
The centre is open from 9am to 7pm, with festive activities through the day, the Window Wonderland shop window competition and the opening of Father Christmas's Enchanted Cabin grotto (a separate paid, pre-booked experience). It's free to come along with no booking needed, so wrap up and make an afternoon of it in town.
2
· 11:00 – 20:00
Pantiles Boutique Christmas Markets
The Pantiles' colonnaded Georgian promenade makes a wonderfully atmospheric setting for Tunbridge Wells' boutique Christmas markets. Stalls of independent makers, artisan food and thoughtful gifts line the historic walkway, with the surrounding cafés, wine bars and restaurants on hand for a warming drink between purchases.
The markets run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from mid-November, then every day in the final week before Christmas, from 11am until 8pm (closing at 6pm on Christmas Eve). A lovely, unhurried alternative to the big-city markets.