Christmas Places in Tunbridge Wells

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.

The grounds of Tonbridge Castle, with its mighty Norman gatehouse as a backdrop, are transformed for three festive weekends of stalls, seasonal food and drink and family fun. It's free to wander in and soak up the atmosphere, with a Father Christmas grotto (£15) for little ones. The Fest runs 27–29 November, 3–6 December and 10–13 December: weekdays from 1pm to 7pm and weekends from 10.30am to 7pm, so there's time to visit after school or make a day of it with a riverside stroll.

The grounds of Tonbridge Castle, with its mighty Norman gatehouse as a backdrop, are transformed for three festive weekends of stalls, seasonal food and drink and family fun. It's free to wander in and soak up the atmosphere, with a Father Christmas grotto (£15) for little ones. The Fest runs 27–29 November, 3–6 December and 10–13 December: weekdays from 1pm to 7pm and weekends from 10.30am to 7pm, so there's time to visit after school or make a day of it with a riverside stroll.