Looking for things to do in Tunbridge Wells this August Bank Holiday Weekend (28 to 31 August)? The good news is there’s loads happening in and around our marvellous town, with live music, family days out, festivals and plenty more to choose from.
So, if you’re making plans for the long weekend, here are 10 brilliant things to do around Tunbridge Wells this August Bank Holiday Weekend…
♥ Friday 28th August – RVP Fest at Royal Victoria Place
Start the August Bank Holiday Weekend with some FREE family fun at RVP Fest! The all-singing, all-dancing Idolz trio will be performing a high-energy mini concert packed with children’s favourite songs, followed by the chance to learn a dance routine, pose for photos and even get some festival glitter. Sessions take place throughout the day at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm – and it’s all completely FREE!
♥ Friday 28th to Monday 31st August – Hever Festival Theatre
There’s a fantastic line-up at Hever Festival Theatre this August Bank Holiday Weekend. On Friday, choose from The Natalie Williams Band or Flower Power: A Sunset Silent Disco beside the lake in Hever Castle’s Italian Gardens. Saturday sees The Dusty Show celebrating the music of Dusty Springfield, while on Monday afternoon, Illyria brings Shakespeare’s As You Like It to nearby Chiddingstone Castle – suitable for all ages and a lovely way to round off the long weekend.
♥ Saturday 29th to Monday 31st August – Wet Test at The Hot Tub & Swim Spa Company?
Discover one of Tunbridge Wells’ newest home wellness destinations at Notcutts Tunbridge Wells this Bank Holiday weekend. Drop in to explore Jacuzzi® hot tubs, swim spa pools, infrared and traditional saunas and more, or book a Try Before You Buy wet test and bring your swimwear to experience them for yourself. There will also be special Bank Holiday offers, plus an exclusive My Tunbridge Wells offer on qualifying purchases. Find out more and book a wet test here.
♥ Saturday 29th to Monday 31st August – Alice’s Wonderland Express at Spa Valley Railway
Step through the looking glass aboard Alice’s Wonderland Express – a brand-new interactive steam train adventure. Meet Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter, solve puzzles, enjoy Wonderland-themed activities and take a nostalgic journey behind a heritage steam locomotive. Tickets also include unlimited travel on Spa Valley Railway’s other services running that day.
♥ Saturday 29th to Monday 31st August – Local & Live
The brilliant Local & Live music festival is back in Tunbridge Wells for the August Bank Holiday Weekend, bringing three days of fantastic live music to the town. Founded by Paul Dunton, the festival celebrates and supports talented local musicians and original music – and there’s always a brilliant atmosphere.
♥ Bank Holiday Fun at Penshurst Place
Penshurst Place has been running an incredible programme of family fun throughout the summer, with activities, crafts, garden trails and magical storytelling adventures. The fun continues this weekend – it’s one of our favourite places to spend a summer’s day with the kids. Read all about its summer adventures here.
♥ Saturday 29th August – Dragon Boat Festival at Bewl Water
Make a day of it at Bewl Water this August Bank Holiday Weekend, where the spectacular Dragon Boat Festival returns on Saturday. Watch teams battle it out on the reservoir and save some time to discover the walking and cycling trails, playground, aqua obstacle course, sailing and more.
♥ Saturday 29th to Monday 31st August – Plant Hunters Weekend at Lullingstone Castle
Head to Lullingstone Castle for Plant Hunters Weekend, celebrating some of Britain’s most intrepid plant hunters. Tom Hart Dyke and friends will be dressing for the occasion, with Tom leading tours of The World Garden from 1.30pm. On Saturday, families can also meet fascinating creatures with Zoolab, including giant African snails, insects, spiders and corn snakes. Adults £13.50 and children under 16 go FREE.
♥ Saturday 29th August – Sevenoaks Street Food Fest
Head to the beautiful Vine Gardens for Sevenoaks Street Food Fest, a FREE day celebrating fantastic food, live music and community spirit. Tuck into street food from around the world, treat yourself to something sweet and soak up the atmosphere with live entertainment throughout the day.
♥ Sunday 30th & Monday 31st August – The Kent Country Show
Round off the summer with a family day out at The Kent Country Show at Quex Park. Expect spectacular equestrian displays, dog shows and agility demonstrations, live music, vintage farming displays, artisan shopping and a food and drink festival showcasing the best of Kent. There’s plenty for all ages – including the dog!
♥ Monday 31st August – Saddle Up & Dance at Royal Victoria Place
Saddle up for some FREE Bank Holiday fun at Royal Victoria Place! Little cowboys and cowgirls can enjoy line dancing, country-themed games and a fun Wanted Poster craft activity. Sessions take place at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm.
More ideas for the Bank Holiday Weekend
♥ Aqua Chimp, Yalding
Swing, splash, slide and climb your way around Aqua Chimp, the brilliant floating outdoor adventure course in Yalding. We went recently as a family of five and loved it! Take on the Gorilla Slip ‘n Slide, Jungle Ropes Course – or, even better, do both.
♥ AirHop Tunbridge Wells
Newly opened AirHop has quickly become one of Tunbridge Wells’ top family attractions, with interconnected trampolines, climbing walls, ninja challenges and plenty of space to bounce – plus laser tag, which is great fun too! It’s the perfect place for children (and adults!) to let off steam whatever the weather.
♥ REALMS, Crowborough
Recently relocated and bigger than ever, REALMS is one of the area’s most exciting indoor entertainment venues. Try immersive VR games and escape rooms, interactive darts or TrackMan golf featuring world-famous courses. We visited recently and LOVED it!
♥ Heaven Farm, Uckfield
Make a day of it at Heaven Farm with Cow Putt Crazy Golf, a wander around the nature trail and a visit to Latchetts for some seriously good ice cream. There’s a play barn too, making it another lovely option for a relaxed family day out.