Looking for things to do in and around Tunbridge Wells this September? From village fetes, foodie festivals and family days out to guided walks, live music, markets, school open days and special one-off events including the Hospice Run, there’s so much happening locally. Here’s your ultimate round-up – including ongoing experiences and hidden gems you can enjoy anytime.
♥ Weds 2 September – John Cleese and The Holy Grail at Assembly Hall Theatre
Monty Python fans won’t want to miss this special evening with comedy legend John Cleese. Enjoy a screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, followed by a live conversation and audience Q&A with Cleese himself, complete with behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of his trademark humour.
♥ Fri 4 – Sun 6 & Thurs 10 – Sun 13 September – M&L Pleasure Fairs at Dunorlan Park
The funfair returns to Dunorlan Park for two weekends of traditional family fun, with thrill rides, children’s rides, dodgems, fairground games, food stalls and plenty of candy floss. Entry is completely free, with tokens available to buy for the rides, plus special offers including Half-Price Day on 10 September and a Giant Foam Cannon Party on 12 September.
♥ Sat 5 September – Classics by Candlelight at St James Church
Enjoy an atmospheric evening of live classical music by candlelight at St James Church in Tunbridge Wells on 5 September. Internationally acclaimed violinist Harriet Mackenzie and the Celoniatus Ensemble will perform two intimate one-hour concerts, featuring Vivaldi’s Winter at 6pm and Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending at 8pm. Proceeds support Music in Action’s developing schools’ outreach programme in the Tunbridge Wells area.
♥ Sat 5 & Sun 6 September – Chapel Down Magnum Festival
Raise a glass to the end of summer at Chapel Down’s inaugural Magnum Festival in Tenterden. Expect a weekend of award-winning English wine, live music, fantastic food from some of Kent’s leading producers and restaurants, and exclusive Magnum Masterclasses, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the winery estate.
♥ Anytime – Swim, Soak & Sauna at Notcutts
Discover The Hot Tub & Swim Spa Company’s new Tunbridge Wells showroom at Notcutts, where you can browse Jacuzzi® hot tubs, swim spas and saunas – or book a Try Before You Buy wet test and experience them for yourself.
♥ Saturday 5 & 12 September and 3 & 10 October – FREE Women in Squash Coaching at Tunbridge Wells Squash Rackets Club
Fancy giving squash a try? Tunbridge Wells Squash Rackets Club is offering FREE one-hour coaching sessions for women of all abilities, whether you’re a complete beginner, returning to the sport or used to playing tennis or badminton. Sessions start at 9.30am, with coaching from 10am-11am, led by qualified coaches Polly and Amy. It’s a fun, relaxed way to try the sport, meet other women and discover this centrally located Tunbridge Wells club. Places are free but booking is required by emailing: Email twsrcwomen@gmail.com.
♥ Sat 5 & Sun 6 September – Alice’s Wonderland Express at Spa Valley Railway.
Step through the looking glass and into the magical world of Alice in Wonderland aboard this brand-new interactive steam train adventure from the team behind THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Meet Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter, solve puzzles, complete Wonderland-themed activities and enjoy a nostalgic journey behind a heritage steam locomotive. Every child receives an activity booklet, while all passengers enjoy a slice of cake and a drink. Book here!
♥ Sun 6 September – Free Irish & Trad Sessions
On the first Sunday of each month, The Sussex Arms fills The Pantiles with Irish spirit from 4 to 6pm, with a free afternoon of live traditional music from the Sussex Arms Traditional Irish band. Expect folk, Celtic and old-time tunes in true pub session style – best enjoyed with a pint of Guinness in hand (free entry, booking advised by emailing bar@thesussextw.co.uk).
♥ Anytime – The Real Pizza Company
If pizza night is calling, The Real Pizza Company is quickly building a reputation locally for its fantastic wood-fired pizzas. Freshly prepared and cooked in a proper wood-fired oven, this is one to add to your takeaway list when only pizza will do.
♥ From Fri 4 September – Castle Farm Apple Orchard
Castle Farm opens its PYO season, inviting families to pick rare Norfolk Royal apples in a pretty orchard near Sevenoaks. Entry is free, simply pay for what you pick, and enjoy treats from the Market Stall including ice cream, drinks and Castle Farm goodies. A short-season activity not to be missed!
♥ Sun 6 September – Tonbridge Dragon Boat Race returns to the Medway by Tonbridge Castle with teams battling it out in colourful boats. Expect a thrilling day of racing, community spirit and family fun – all in support of local charities.
♥ Monthly – Starting Weds 9 September – Ladies Board Games Tunbridge Wells
Fancy meeting new people over a board game or two? Ladies Board Games Tunbridge Wells is a new local community bringing women together for relaxed board game meet-ups – a lovely option if you’re looking to make new friends and try something a little different. Taking place at The Barn!
♥ Weds 9 September – In the Night Garden Live at Assembly Hall Theatre
Parents of little ones, this one’s for you! In the Night Garden Live comes to the Assembly Hall Theatre, bringing Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends to the stage in Igglepiggle’s Busy Day. Perfect for younger children, the magical live show features full-size costumes, puppets, music and even a special visit from the flying Pinky Ponk, with three performances at 10am, 12pm and 3pm.
♥ Thurs 10 September – Bewl Water Netwalking with Presence & Co.
Swap the office for the outdoors with a free morning of networking at beautiful Bewl Water. Meet other business owners and professionals over coffee before heading out for a relaxed lakeside walk, with plenty of opportunity to chat and make new local connections without the formality of traditional networking.
♥ Fri 11 September – Alex McAleer: Mind Reader at Trinity Theatre
Prepare to be amazed as acclaimed mentalist Alex McAleer brings his mind-reading show to Trinity Theatre. Known for appearances on Blue Peter and Good Morning Britain, as well as international hit Champions of Magic, Alex combines sharp humour, audience participation and seemingly impossible predictions for an entertaining evening that will leave you wondering just how he did it. Suitable for ages 12+, tickets are £22.
♥ Anytime – Paws Cat Café in Tonbridge is the perfect cosy hideaway, where coffee and cake come with cuddles from adorable rescue cats. We love what they are doing there…
♥ Fri 11 September – The Mum Club Tunbridge Wells hosts meet-ups locally and this month they are inviting Mums to a delicious brunch at The Mercure Hotel, from 11am to 1pm. Book your tickets here.
♥ Weekly – Fuggles Tunbridge Wells hosts Run Club on the last Wednesday of every month, Quiz Night on the second Tuesday of every month and Book Club on the last Tuesday of the month. Pair the fun with brilliant beer, wine, charcuterie and a buzzing local atmosphere.
♥ Fri 11 September – The Wealden Times Pop-Up Fair i
Taking place at Penshurst Place for one day only, 10am–4pm. Browse 33 handpicked independent brands in historic rooms not usually open to the public, with access to the house, gardens and adventure playground included. Tickets must be purchased in advance here.
♥ Sat 12 September – Orthodontics & Invisalign Open Day at 78MPR
Thinking about Invisalign or wondering whether your child might benefit from orthodontic treatment? 78MPR is offering free consultations for adults and children at its dedicated Open Day, with the chance to meet the team, explore treatment options using advanced 3D technology and take advantage of exclusive savings available on the day.
♥ Sat 12 & Sun 13 September – Tudor Re-enactment Weekend at Penshurst Place
Step back in time at Penshurst Place & Gardens for its brand-new Tudor Re-enactment Weekend. The year is 1528 and the Companye of Merrie Folke will be preparing for King Henry VIII’s return from hunting on the Penshurst Place Estate. Families can meet colourful Tudor characters and enjoy demonstrations and talks bringing this fascinating period of history to life. Best of all, the event is included with standard admission.
♥ Sat 12 – Sun 20 September – Heritage Open Days
Returning with free tours and events across Tunbridge Wells. Highlights include walking tours of The Pantiles, Woodbury Park Cemetery, Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Salomons Museum plus hidden gems and a chance to explore historic buildings not usually open to the public.
♥ Sat 12 September – Hartfield Village Fete
Filling the village with fairground fun, vintage cars, live music, a Horticultural and Dog Show, plus guest appearances from Winnie the Pooh and Tigger. From 12 noon to 4.30pm, expect food and gift stalls, classic games and family entertainment all afternoon.
♥ Sun 20 September – Hospice Run
The Hospice Run returns to Tunbridge Wells for its 20th year with half marathon, 10k, 5k and a family fun run!
Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, ticking a half marathon off your bucket list or simply enjoying a fun morning out with the family, every entry helps make a real difference to local people facing life’s toughest moments. A brilliant community challenge raising vital funds for Hospice in the Weald. Register here!
♥ Anytime – Birchden Vineyards & Blackbird Café serve freshly made crêpes, coffee and wine in Groombridge, with direct walks into Broadwater Warren.
♥ Sun 20 September – Kent College Prep School Forest Fun Day
Discover Kent College Prep School with a fun-filled morning in its beautiful woodland setting. It’s a chance for families to explore the school, meet the team and experience some of the outdoor learning and activities on offer while finding out more about life at Kent College.
♥ Sun 20 September – Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour: Turandot at Trinity Theatre
Experience one of opera’s most spectacular productions on the big screen at Trinity Theatre. Puccini’s Turandot is performed against the extraordinary backdrop of Sydney Harbour, combining soaring music, incredible staging and one of opera’s most famous arias, Nessun Dorma.
♥ Sun 20 September – Chiddingstone Castle Wedding Showcase
Planning a wedding? Spend the day exploring beautiful Chiddingstone Castle and meeting a selection of wedding suppliers who can help bring your plans to life. Set within 35 acres of Kent countryside, it’s also a brilliant opportunity to see this historic venue dressed for a celebration and imagine your own big day there.
♥ Sun 20 September – Raystede hosts its All About Dogs Day, a free event packed with expert advice, behaviour talks, microchip checks, dog-friendly shopping and family activities. A welfare-focused day out designed to help every pup live their best life.
♥ Anytime – Duddleswell Café, Ashdown Forest & Babylon Eco make a perfect mini-day out with coffee and cake, a loop walk at The Hollies, and a browse (plus play area and café stop) at Babylon Eco.
♥ Fri 25 September – A Celebration of Eminem at The Forum
Eminem fans can head to The Forum for an evening celebrating the music of one of hip-hop’s biggest names. Performed by Michael Mathers, expect a live tribute packed with some of Eminem’s best-known tracks and an energetic night dedicated to his unmistakable sound.
♥ Fri 25 September – ALL FLOYD – The Best of Pink Floyd 2026 Tour at Trinity Theatre
Pink Floyd fans are in for a treat as ALL FLOYD return to Tunbridge Wells with their acclaimed live show. Expect an immersive journey through the band’s incredible catalogue, celebrating classic tracks with impressive musicianship, visuals and atmosphere.
♥ Sat 26 September – Beacon Academy Open Day
Families considering secondary school options can explore Beacon Academy at its September Open Day. Tour the school, visit different subject areas, meet students and staff and hear from senior leaders while discovering more about the curriculum, pastoral care, enrichment opportunities and sixth form.
♥ Sat 26 & Sun 27 September – Dinosaur Weekend at Spa Valley Railway
Dinosaurs are taking over the Spa Valley Railway! Step aboard a heritage steam or diesel train before coming face-to-face with incredibly realistic dinosaurs and their expert rangers at Tunbridge Wells West. Even better, children aged 0–15 travel FREE when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, making this a brilliant family day out.
♥ Sat 26 September – Walthamstow Hall Open Morning
Discover Walthamstow Hall in Sevenoaks at its Whole School Open Morning. Families can explore the school, meet staff and pupils and find out more about academic life, extracurricular opportunities and what the school can offer prospective students.
♥ Anytime – Newly Refurbished Mini Golf at Tonbridge Racecourse Sportsground
Fancy a round of mini golf? Tonbridge Racecourse Sportsground has unveiled its newly refurbished nine-hole course, with each hole inspired by a different Tonbridge landmark. The wider improvements at the sportsground also include new pickleball courts, upgraded tennis courts and an expanded outdoor gym, giving you even more reasons to head down and give something new a try.
♥ Sat 26 & Sun 27 September – Tunbridge Wells Food & Drink Festival takes over Calverley Grounds 11am–6pm with more than 70 stallholders. Free to enter, it’s a chance to taste, try and buy delicious food and drink from Kent and beyond in a beautiful town-centre setting.