Summer 2025 promises to be a spectacular season across Kent and Sussex, and for us here in Tonbridge, we’re perfectly positioned to soak up all the excitement! From thrilling music festivals to family-friendly country shows, fascinating literary events, and even a focus on wellness, there’s something to spark everyone’s interest. Forget Glasto, we’ve got loads going on right on our doorstep.
Ditch the endless scrolling and get ready to mark your calendars with these fantastic happenings, all within easy reach of Tonbridge.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best of summer, with all the essential details on how to get there from Tonbridge:
June
1/ The Kent Wellness Festival
Saturday, 7th – Sunday, 8th June 2025 | Kent Event Centre, Detling, Maidstone, Kent
Recharge, explore, and be inspired at The Kent Wellness Festival, returning bigger and better than ever! Hosted at the Kent Event Centre, this two-day celebration of all things health and wellbeing offers over 70 hours of talks, classes, and workshops – all included in your ticket. Dive into fitness, nutrition, meditation, yoga, and spirituality with experts. Discover a vibrant marketplace featuring wellness products, local artisans, organic food, and holistic therapies. With spa treatments, relaxation zones, live music, and family activities, it’s the perfect event to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: The Kent Event Centre (Detling) is near Maidstone, approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Tonbridge. Parking is plentiful on site.
- By Public Transport: Not the easiest journey, train to Maidstone West, then a bus and a bit of walking!
- Find out more: https://www.thekentwellnessfestival.com/
2/ Wealden Literary Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 21st – Sunday, 22nd June 2025 | Woodchurch, Kent
Embrace nature and creativity at the Wealden Literary Festival, a family-friendly weekend set amidst the beautiful outdoors of Woodchurch. This festival combines literary events with outdoor adventures. Expect talks from award-winning nature writers and conservationists, alongside a packed children’s programme. Beyond the books, you can try tree climbing, wild cooking, wine tasting, weaving workshops, and even yoga!
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Woodchurch is located roughly 40-50 minutes drive from Tonbridge. Check their website for specific parking arrangements.
- By Public Transport: A combination of train and bus would be possible, but may involve multiple changes and take significantly longer (approx. 2-3 hours). Driving is highly recommended.
- Find out more: https://wealdenliteraryfestival.co.uk/
3/ Hever’s Home Front 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 21st – Sunday, 22nd June 2025 | Hever Castle, Hever, Kent
Step back in time to the 1940s at Hever’s Home Front. The stunning grounds of Hever Castle will be transformed with displays of military vehicles, vintage stalls, and wartime food and drink. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the era and even get a 1940s hairstyle at the onsite salon! It’s a nostalgic and educational experience for all ages.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Hever Castle is a relatively short and scenic drive, approximately 20-25 minutes from Tonbridge. Parking is available on site.
- By Bus: There is a direct bus service (route 210) from Tonbridge Castle to The Wheatsheaf, which is a short walk from Hever Castle.
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Edenbridge (approx. 15 minutes), then a local bus or taxi to Hever Castle (approx. 10-15 minutes).
- Find out more: https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on/hevers-home-front-1940s-event/
4/ Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival
Friday, 28th June – Saturday, 13th July 2025 | Various Venues, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Prepare for a dazzling display of artistic talent at the Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival. This two-week extravaganza showcases almost 200 performances from up-and-coming artists across a variety of venues. From award-winning comedy and classical theatre to head-banging bands, magic, children’s workshops, cabaret, dance, and drag, there’s truly something for everyone. Tickets are incredibly accessible, ranging from free to £20.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Easy as pie! A swift 5-10 minute train ride from Tonbridge to Tunbridge Wells. Venues are scattered across the town, many within walking distance of the station.
- By Car: A quick 10-15 minute drive. Public parking available throughout Tunbridge Wells.
- Find out more: TW Fringe Festival Website
5/ Martha’s Music on the Farm 👨👩👧👦
Sunday, 29th June 2025 | Solley’s Ice Cream family farm, Ripple, Kent
Support a fantastic cause and enjoy a day of music and fun at Martha’s Music on the Farm. Located at Solley’s Ice Cream family farm, this one-day festival features outstanding local musicians playing everything from folk rock to bluesy beats. With onsite vendors and bars, or the option to bring your own picnic, it’s a perfect family outing. Plus, your proceeds help transform the lives of people with profound disabilities through the Martha Trust.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Ripple is near Deal, so the drive from Tonbridge would be approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Parking will be available on the farm.
- By Public Transport: Train to Walmer and then walking 45 minutes – perhaps not ideal!
- Find out more: https://www.marthatrust.org.uk/events/music-on-the-farm-2025/
July
6/ Tonbridge Music Weekend (👨👩👧👦 – Sunday)
4th – 6th July 2025 | Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge, Kent
Let’s kick things off with a festival right on our doorstep! The Tonbridge Music Weekend transforms our beloved Tonbridge Castle into a vibrant hub of sound and fun. Expect disco beats, dance vibes, and a family-friendly atmosphere with bands like Disco Inferno, 5,6,7,8 The Steps Experience, and Michael Starring Ben. It’s the perfect local antidote to a long week.
Bonus – you can bring your own food AND drink.
Getting There from Tonbridge: You can’t get much closer! Simply take a leisurely stroll to Tonbridge Castle, just a stone’s throw from the town centre. No travel woes here!
Find out more: https://www.tonbridgemusicweekend.com/
7/ Rochester Castle Live
Friday, 4th – Sunday, 6th July 2025 | Rochester Castle, Rochester, Kent
Experience three incredible music events in the majestic setting of Rochester Castle Live. Friday kicks off with the high-energy Symphonic Ibiza Orchestra Live, followed by rock anthems from Courteeners + The Lathums on Saturday (with more acts to be announced). Sunday sees the return of Craig David presents TS5 for a fantastic finish. This iconic venue promises unforgettable summer nights.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: This one is a bit easier! Take a direct train from Tonbridge to Strood, which typically takes around 55 minutes. Rochester Castle is a short walk from there.
- By Car: The drive to Rochester from Tonbridge is approximately 40-50 minutes. Parking is available in Rochester town centre.
- Find out more: https://rochestercastlelive.com/whats-on/
8/ The Kent County Show 👨👩👧👦
Friday, 4th – Sunday, 6th July 2025 | Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone, Kent
A true celebration of rural life, The Kent County Show is the region’s premier event for farming, agriculture, and countryside living. For three jam-packed days, the Kent Showground bursts with animals, horses, vintage vehicles, live entertainment, fascinating displays, and demonstrations. It’s a fantastic family-friendly day out, offering a glimpse into Kent’s rich agricultural heritage.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: The Kent Event Centre (Detling) is near Maidstone, approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Tonbridge. Parking is plentiful on site.
- By Public Transport: Not the easiest journey, train to Maidstone West, then a bus and a bit of walking!
- Find out more: https://kcas.org.uk/kent-county-show/
9/ Canterbury’s Annual Medieval Pageant and Trail 👨👩👧👦
Friday, 5th July 2025, 11am-5pm | Canterbury City Centre, Kent
Hear ye, hear ye! Canterbury’s streets come alive with history for its annual Medieval Pageant and Trail, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special “Canterbury Tales” edition. Join a merry parade of pilgrims, knights on horseback, and medieval royalty. Explore the city, collect stamps on your pilgrim passport, and enjoy free, fun activities like knightly battles, singing workshops, medieval crafts, and archaeological digging. It’s a colourful and immersive journey back in time.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Canterbury West (approx. 50-60 minutes). The city centre, where the pageant takes place, is a short walk from the station.
- By Car: Driving to Canterbury takes approximately 50-60 minutes. Parking is available in various city centre car parks.
- Find out more: https://canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk/
10/ Hike to the Mic
Saturday, 5th July 2025 | Tibbs Farm, Udimore, Rye, East Sussex
This isn’t just a music festival; it’s an adventure! Hike to the Mic offers a truly unique experience, blending scenic hikes with fantastic live music. Starting in Hastings, you can choose to join a group hike through the beautiful Hastings Country Park, with an acoustic set at Charles Palmer Vineyard in Winchelsea along the way, before arriving at Tibbs Farm for the main event. Or, if you prefer to save your energy for dancing, head straight to the farm. Expect a diverse line-up spanning folk, blues, jazz, indie, and rock, with acts like The Gulls, Romain Axisa, Samuel Ashton and The Instincts, and Lafferty already announced. Plus, 10% of profits go to “Warming Up The Homeless” – what’s not to love?
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train & Shuttle: Take a train from Tonbridge to Rye (you’ll likely need to change at Hastings or Ashford International). From Rye Station, a shuttle bus service will be available to Tibbs Farm for non-campers after the music finishes. If you’re doing the hike, you’d travel to Hastings and then begin your trek!
- By Car: Tibbs Farm is near Rye, East Sussex. The journey by car from Tonbridge would typically take around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking will be available on-site.
- Find out more: https://www.hiketothemic.co.uk/
11/ Love Supreme Jazz Festival
4th – 6th July 2025 | Glynde Place, Glynde, East Sussex
For a truly world-class jazz experience, head to the stunning Glynde Place for the Love Supreme Jazz Festival. This year’s line-up is incredible, featuring Jacob Collier, Maxwell, Nile Rodgers & Chic, The Roots, and special guest Smokey Robinson! Beyond the music, enjoy dance, comedy, spoken word, a Jazz lounge with interviews, a wellness area, record store, kids area, and a fantastic array of food and drink. It’s a full weekend of pure musical bliss.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Bit tricky – head down to Hastings and then you’d need to take a couple of trains to get there! Doable though.
- By Car: Driving to Glynde Place from Tonbridge takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Parking is available on site.
- Find out more: https://lovesupremefestival.com/
12/ Leeds Castle Concert
Saturday, 12th July 2025 | Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent
Dust off your smartest smock for the iconic Leeds Castle Concert. Set in the most stunning location – a natural amphitheatre in front of the beautiful Leeds Castle – thousands flock to this amazing open-air musical delight. Expect world-class music from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, a spectacular Spitfire fly-over, and a breathtaking fireworks finale. It’s an evening of pure magic.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Leeds Castle is about a 35-40 minute drive from Tonbridge. Parking is available on site.
- By Bus: You can get there directly with two buses – change in Maidstone.
- Find out more: https://www.leedscastleconcert.co.uk/
13/ Margate Reggae Festival
Saturday, 12th July 2025 | Dreamland, Margate, Kent
Get ready for a vibrant celebration of all things reggae at Margate Reggae Festival at Dreamland. This open-air festival features live music from legends like UB40 ft Ali Campbell, Maxi Priest, The Selecter, and Trojan Sound System, along with theme park rides, a roller disco, disco yoga, and dance classes. It’s a sun-soaked day of good vibes and unforgettable tunes.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Margate- change at Ramsgate.
- By Car: Driving to Margate takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Parking is available in Margate.
- Find out more: https://www.dreamland.co.uk/event/margate-reggae-festival-2025/
14/ Sausage and Cider Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 19th July 2025 | Eridge Park, Eridge, Kent
Just a stone’s throw from Tonbridge, the Sausage and Cider Festival at Eridge Park is back for another delicious day! Indulge in over 30 cider flavours and 20 types of sausages while enjoying incredible live music from tribute bands. This year’s headline acts include One Night in Nashville and Reef, with special guests Barrioke and Big John (for the sausage eating contest!). Expect tributes to Mumford & Sons, Foo Fighters, Fleetwood Maca and Oasis too.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a direct train from Tonbridge to Tunbridge Wells, from there you can take a bus.
- By Car: Eridge Park is a very short drive from Tonbridge, just off the A26. The journey should take around 15-20 minutes. Parking is available on-site.
- Find out more: https://www.sausageandciderfest.co.uk/
15/ Blue Reef Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 25th – Sunday, 26th July 2025 | Loddington Farm, Linton, Kent
Get ready for the fifth annual Blue Reef Festival, returning to Loddington Farm. This family-friendly event features an eclectic lineup across five unique stages, showcasing chart-topping bands alongside exciting up-and-coming acts. The Main Stage is packed with legendary acts including Happy Mondays, Reef, Newton Faulkner, and Republica. There are five stages of music, with genres including a dedicated DJ stage, acoustic sets, and a late-night indie disco. Plus, enjoy fantastic food, drinks, and cultural experiences throughout the weekend.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Loddington Farm is about a 35 minute drive from Tonbridge. Parking will be available on site.
- By Public Transport: Take a train from Tonbridge to Staplehurst, then grab a bus.
- Find out more: https://www.bluereeffestival.co.uk/
16/ Maidstone River Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 26th July 2025 | River Medway, Maidstone, Kent
There’s major fun bubbling up in Maidstone with the Maidstone River Festival. Get literally on board by entering your team in the raft race, or simply cheer from the riverside! As evening approaches, the boats begin to glow, lighting up the river, culminating in an award-winning fireworks display that lights up the sky. It’s a truly unique and enchanting event.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Maidstone West (approx. 25-30 minutes). The festival takes place along the River Medway in the town centre, easily accessible from the station.
- By Car: A quick 25-30 minute drive to Maidstone. Parking is available in town centre car parks.
- Find out more: https://www.maidstoneriverfestival.com/
August
17/ Kent Country County Fair
Sunday, 3rd August 2025 | Betteshanger Park, Deal, Kent
Yee-haw! Country music is riding into town with the Kent Country County Fair at Betteshanger Country Park Amphitheatre. Expect an authentic county fair vibe with food, stalls, line dancing, and some of the biggest names in country. Brandon Davis, fresh from touring with Tim McGraw, will be flying in from Tennessee for a special performance. Plus, phenomenal tributes to Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen, and live acts like Billy Bubba King. Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for a day of live music, roaming performers, fire shows, and delicious American-style food!
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Betteshanger Park is near Deal, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Tonbridge. Parking is available on site.
- By Public Transport: A train to Walmer, followed by a local bus or taxi would be possible, but expect a journey of 2 hours or more. Driving is recommended for ease.
- Find out more: https://www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/event/kent-country-county-fair-2025/
18/ Broadstairs Folk Week
Friday, 8th – Friday, 15th August 2025 | Various Venues, Broadstairs, Kent
Celebrating its 60th anniversary in style, Broadstairs Folk Week is a fantastic week-long immersion in traditional and contemporary folk music, dance, and culture. Headlined by folk legends like Lindisfarne, Martin Carthy & Eliza Carthy, Eddi Reader, and Jon Boden & the Remnant Kings, you’ll find intimate gigs, energetic ceilidhs, craft fairs, storytelling, workshops, and vibrant street performances throughout the charming seaside town. It’s also a great choice for families, with a festival bar, food stalls, and a packed music calendar. Camping is available just a 15-20 minute walk from the centre, with a regular minibus service to venues.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Broadstairs (you’ll typically need to change at Ramsgate). The journey usually takes around 2 hours.
- By Car: Driving to Broadstairs from Tonbridge will take approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Parking is available in various car parks around Broadstairs.
- Find out more: https://broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk/
19/ Biddenden Tractorfest 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 16th – Sunday, 17th August 2025 | Holden Farm, Biddenden, Kent
Now in its 11th year, Biddenden Tractorfest is a fun day out for all the family! The stars of the show are undoubtedly the up to 300 tractors expected to exhibit. Beyond the agricultural marvels, enjoy plenty of stalls, vehicle demos, and children’s entertainment. Arena demonstrations include falconry, a fun dog show, and sheep displays. Don’t forget the vintage vehicles, delicious food and drink, and live music. This popular event often sells out, so book early!
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Holden Farm in Biddenden is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Tonbridge. Parking will be available on site.
- By Train & Bus: Take a train from Tonbridge to Headcorn (approx. 25 minutes), then a local bus (Route 12) from Headcorn station to Biddenden (approx. 10-15 minutes walk to Holden Farm). The total journey would be around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Find out more: https://www.tractorfest.co.uk/
20/ Sound Of Kent Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 16th August 2025 | Woolton Farm, Canterbury, Kent
After a sold-out debut, the Sound Of Kent Festival is back and bigger than ever at Woolton Farm near Canterbury. This one-day festival is dedicated to showcasing the best up-and-coming musical talent from across Kent. It’s a brilliant opportunity to support local artists and enjoy a day of diverse live music in a beautiful rural setting. Expect a lively atmosphere with artisan food and drink, Kentish wine and cider, and family-friendly entertainment including garden games, a bouncy castle, and face painting. Tickets are incredibly affordable, and under 18s go free. Self-pitch camping, glamping, and motorhome spots are available for those wanting to make a weekend of it.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Canterbury West or Canterbury East. From Canterbury, you’ll need to take a taxi or a local bus to Woolton Farm. The train journey to Canterbury is around 50-60 minutes, plus travel time to the farm.
- By Car: Woolton Farm is about an hour’s drive from Tonbridge. Parking will be available on site.
- Find out more: https://www.wooltonfarm.co.uk/products/sound-of-kent-festival-2025?variant=53478016975225
21/ Camp Kindling 👨👩👧👦
Thursday, 15th – Sunday, 18th August 2025 | Sevenoaks, Kent
Limited availability means you need to be quick for Camp Kindling, a wild weekend set in a gorgeous forest retreat near Sevenoaks. With over 100 amazing activities included in your ticket, you can do, learn, and discover something new every moment. Dance the night away to 50 live bands and DJs, relax in wood-fired hot tubs, or chill around the campfire. The whole family will love this unique blend of adventure and entertainment.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: A very short and direct train journey from Tonbridge to Sevenoaks takes only about 10 minutes. From Sevenoaks station, you may need a short taxi or bus ride to the Camp Kindling location (check their website for specific directions).
- By Car: Sevenoaks is a quick 15-20 minute drive from Tonbridge.
- Find out more: https://campkindling.co.uk/
22/ Camp Wildfire Kent
Weekend 1: Friday, 22nd – Monday, 25th August 2025 | Wildfire Camp, Sevenoaks, Kent Weekend 2: Friday, 29th August – Monday, 1st September 2025 | Wildfire Camp, Sevenoaks, Kent
As seen on BBC One’s Dragon’s Den, Camp Wildfire is an adults-only adventure festival like no other. Imagine a summer camp for grown-ups, packed with over 100 exhilarating activities by day and incredible music and parties by night. From axe throwing and bushcraft to trapeze and wild swimming, learn new skills, challenge yourself, and then dance under the stars to live bands and DJs. It’s a unique blend of adventure, learning, and unforgettable fun. This is the adults version of Camp Kindling!
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Train: Take a direct train from Tonbridge to Sevenoaks (approx. 10-15 minutes). From Sevenoaks station, shuttle buses or pre-booked taxis are usually available to the Wildfire Camp location, which is a short distance outside the town. Check the official Camp Wildfire website for specific transport details closer to the event.
- By Car: A quick 15-20 minute drive from Tonbridge to the Sevenoaks area. Specific parking instructions and directions will be provided by Camp Wildfire.
- Find out more: https://campwildfire.co.uk/
23/ Kent Tribute Festival
Sunday, 24th August 2025 | Strode Park, Herne Bay, Kent
Get ready for a day full of entertainment at the Kent Tribute Festival in the grounds of Strode Park. This family-friendly event features live tribute acts performing hits from Fleetwood Mac to The Killers, and a host of activities for all ages. With tasty hot food stalls and bars, and a commitment to fundraising for the venue, it’s a feel-good festival for a great cause.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Approx a 1 hour 5 minute drive.
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Sturry (likely with changes at Ashford International).
- Find out more: https://www.kenttributefestival.co.uk/
24/ Faversham Hop Festival 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 30th – Sunday, 31st August 2025 | Faversham, Kent
As summer draws to a close, celebrate the hop harvest at the lively Faversham Hop Festival. This free-to-enter event takes over the town with over 70 bands and performers across multiple stages, alongside street performances, traditional Morris dancing, a fairground, and a fantastic array of food and drink stalls. It’s a vibrant and truly unique Kentish experience.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: Driving to Faversham from Tonbridge takes around 45-60 minutes. Parking is available in various town car parks.
- Find out more: https://www.favershamhopfestival.org/
September
25/ Salute to the 40s 👨👩👧👦
Saturday, 20th – Sunday, 21st September 2025 | The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Kent
Step back in time for one final hurrah as Salute to the ’40s returns to The Historic Dockyard Chatham, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. This much-loved vintage festival takes its final bow with an unforgettable weekend of wartime nostalgia. Featuring dazzling performances from The D-Day Darlings and the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra, you can also enjoy classic cars, military displays, reenactments, a vintage market, circus acts, family fun, and an immersive Air Raid Shelter experience. It’s a heartfelt celebration of history, music, and resilience.
Getting There from Tonbridge:
- By Car: The Historic Dockyard Chatham is approximately a 40-50 minute drive from Tonbridge. Parking is available on site.
- By Train: Take a train from Tonbridge to Chatham (likely with changes at Paddock Wood or Strood or Swanley). From Chatham station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the Historic Dockyard. The journey would be around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Find out more: https://thedockyard.co.uk/events/salute-to-the-40s/
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