The main festive fun officially kicks off this weekend with the spectacular Christmas Fest at the Castle and the Tonbridge Bean Christmas Treasure Hunt, alongside the start of the classic family pantomime and traditional carol concerts. Here is your curated guide to the best events not to miss.
Festive & Family
Tonbridge Bean Christmas Treasure Hunt (13–24 December)
Join in our festive town-wide puzzle adventure! Every day from 13th to 24th December, we’ll release a brand-new clue. Crack the code, explore Tonbridge, and race to send us your answer — the first correct entry wins a prize. Expect amazing vouchers for free experiences, festive drinks, and shopping treats on the High Street. It’s the perfect way to discover local gems, support independent businesses, and add a spark of mystery to your Christmas countdown.
Tonbridge Christmas Fest (Friday–Sunday)
The biggest event of the season is here, transforming the Tonbridge Castle grounds into a winter wonderland. Entry is free to stroll through the extensive Christmas market village (over 30 stalls), a festive food village, a dazzling light tunnel, and a parade of illuminated Christmas trees. There’s also daily snow fall!
Time: 10:00–20:00 daily
Venue: Tonbridge Castle, TN9 1AN
Weekend Highlights:
- Saturday 13th: Meet Santa (11:00–15:00, Free — no booking needed).
Evening special: Dan Bud as Robbie Williams Tribute (20:00–23:00, ticketed). - Sunday 14th: Snow Sisters and Olaf Meet-and-Greet
Jack & The Beanstalk Pantomime (Opens Friday)
“Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN!” — Wicked Productions celebrates its 10th anniversary with this high-energy take on the classic family pantomime. Expect giants, singing cows, and all the festive silliness you could hope for.
When: Performances throughout the weekend (check EM Forster Theatre for showtimes).
Venue: E.M. Forster Theatre, Tonbridge School, TN9 1JP
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Friday–Sunday)
Step through the wardrobe and straight into Narnia at The Oast Theatre. This beloved C.S. Lewis tale runs across the entire weekend — an ideal outing for families, literature lovers, and theatre fans.
Venue: The Oast Theatre, Tonbridge
Tonbridge Philharmonic Society — Family Carols (Sunday)
Get into the Christmas spirit with a selection of traditional carols and festive favourites at this family-friendly concert. Details here.
When: Sunday 14th December
Venue: Chapel of St Augustine, Tonbridge School
Markets & Shopping
Tonbridge Farmers’ Market (Sunday)
Stock up on Christmas food and artisan gifts at the December edition of the monthly market. Expect seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and plenty of festive flavours.
Time: 09:30–13:30
Venue: Sovereign Way, TN9 1RG
Health & Wellness
Tonbridge Parkrun (Saturday)
Start your weekend active with this friendly, free 5k. Whether you walk, jog, or run — everyone is welcome.
Time: 09:00
Venue: Tonbridge Park
Yoga with Mica (Saturday)
Ease into your weekend with Mica’s grounding vinyasa-style session, combining gentle movement and mindful breathwork.
Time: 09:30–10:30
Venue: Usually held at the 1st Scout Hut
Yoga with Two Wandering Yogis (Saturday)
This warm, traditional Hatha flow focuses on stretching, strength, and mindful movement — a rejuvenating hour before festive busyness.
Time: 10:00–11:00
Venue: Quarry Hill Road
Theatre & Entertainment
Christmas Special Music Events at The Maid of Kent
Two back-to-back festive nights:
- Friday 12th: Sonny & The Harp
- Saturday 13th: Live performance from singer Jean Paul
A relaxed way to unwind, with plenty of seasonal cheer and classic pub warmth.
Nearby Christmas / Day-Out Ideas
(Short drive from Tonbridge)
Christmas at Scotney Castle (Starts Saturday)
The historic Scotney estate begins its festive illumination weekend. Enjoy the mansion house dressed for Christmas, sparkling decorations, and fireside marshmallow toasting in the courtyard.
Starts: Saturday 13th December (selected dates thereafter)
Sleeping Beauty Pantomime — Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells
For the region’s biggest professional pantomime, head to Tunbridge Wells. Expect a dazzling set, show-stopping costumes, and high-energy performances.
Starts: Saturday 13th December — continues through Christmas.
The Last N.O.E.L Mini Panto at Penshurst Place & Father Christmas at Hever Castle
Both hugely popular local festive experiences continue this weekend. Meet Father Christmas in Hever’s magical grotto, explore the lights, and enjoy the joyful mini-panto at Penshurst Place.
Do you have something you want to tell the Tonbridge Bean about our town? Write to us at tonbridgebean@gmail.com with your thoughts and photos!
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