Tonbridge Castle has a September 2-for-1 deal — And it’s only for locals

Fancy a trip back in time without leaving Tonbridge? There’s a pretty good reason to put Tonbridge Castle on your September to-do list.

Tonbridge and Malling residents can bring a friend or family member to Tonbridge Castle for free throughout September, in a new residents’ offer designed to get more locals through the castle gates.

And yes, that really does mean 2 for 1 – the cheaper ticket is free.

So, if you’re an adult taking a child, the child goes free. Taking another adult? The cheaper adult ticket is free.

“It’s right on our doorstep!”

The offer is being promoted by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, which says the aim is partly to remind local people that one of the town’s biggest attractions is sitting right in the middle of Tonbridge – and perhaps gets taken a little for granted.

Cabinet Member for Community Services, Des Keers, said:

“I think because Tonbridge Castle has been around for so long local people almost forget that it is there!”

He said he knows families who travel outside the borough to visit attractions while overlooking the castle on their doorstep.

And, I am definitely guilty of this. I’ve visited the Castle Lawn countless times, but have yet to enter the actual castle.

So what do you actually get?

Once inside, visitors are given an audio guide and can explore the castle at their own pace, discovering its medieval history and getting a feel for what life was like when kings and lords ruled the land.

There’s also a children’s version of the audio guide, while younger visitors can pick up a castle activity book to make the experience a bit more hands-on.

It’s the sort of attraction that can work for a quick wander around town, a family day out or an excuse to show visiting friends and relatives that Tonbridge actually has some rather brilliant history.

There is one catch…

You have to be a Tonbridge and Malling Borough resident to get the offer, and you’ll need to prove your address.

A driving licence is the preferred option. Alternatively, you can bring a council tax bill along with another form of photo ID.

And importantly, the deal is only available in person — you can’t book the discounted tickets online.

When can you go?

The offer runs for the whole of September, giving locals plenty of opportunity to take advantage.

Tonbridge Castle’s opening hours until the end of September are:

Monday–Thursday: 10am–5pm
Friday: 10am–4.30pm
Weekends & Bank Holidays: 10am–6pm

So, if you’ve lived in Tonbridge for years but haven’t actually been inside the castle recently, September might be the month to finally do it.

And if you’ve got a friend who keeps saying they’ve “never actually been inside Tonbridge Castle”…

This is probably your cue.

Normal ticket price for an adult is £10.90. And note, children under 5 are free.

Offer subject to the council’s eligibility and ticketing requirements. Proof of Tonbridge and Malling Borough residency is required and tickets must be purchased in person.

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