CHRISTMAS
CHILDREN’S What’s On THEATRE
Your festive guide to
What's On
Pantomimes & Family Theatre All listings are correct at the time of going to print.
Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells TN1 2LU Box Office: 01892 530613 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Sat 9 Dec to Sun 31 Dec Beauty and The Beast In our pretty French town, Bookish Belle is ready to start a new chapter. Life isn’t quite the Parisdise she’s been dreaming of. She’s just a ‘Oui’ bit different and longs to find some adventure. The award winning Little Wolf Entertainment return with even more shimmering sets, outrageous costumes, magic and mayhem in this brand new furry-tail pantomime adventure! 29 Dec relaxed performance, 28 Dec BSL performance. Various times. Book online. The Alexander Centre Faversham, ME13 8NZ Box Office: 01795 591691 www.thealex.org.uk Tue 19 Dec Cinderella You are invited to a family-friendly presentation of this well-loved, heart-warming rags to riches romance, with loads of comedy, pathos, music and audience participation, it’s a show not to be missed! Two hours running time. Adult: £10. Child: £7.50. The Amelia Scott - Exhibition Space Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS www.theamelia.co.uk Fri 8 to Sun 24 Dec Little Owl and the Christmas Lights This enchanting production uses puppetry, original songs and spectacular animations. A perfect introduction to live performance for young audiences. Ticket include a free-gift, a free downloadable activity pack and are just £10 including booking fees. The Granville Theatre Ramsgate, CT11 8DG Box Office: 03330 096 697 www.thegranvilletheatre.com Fri 15 Dec to Sun 31 Dec Beauty and the Beast Get ready for a star-studded cast led by Hollyoaks and TV legend Jeremy Edwards. Buckle up for barrels of laughter as the hilarious ‘Jezo’ returns for his 7th sensational panto year. Adding to the fun, Panto royalty ‘Dave Short’ will bring heaps of glamour as Dame. EM Forster Theatre Tonbridge School, TN9 1JP Box Office: 01732 304241 www.emftheatre.com Sun 19 Nov Little Red Riding Hood A wolf in granny’s clothing knows all about what fun dressing-up can be and in Little Red Riding Hood. As you go down the path into the snowy wild wood, you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees. £12. Ages 3+.
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feature a brand-new line up of comedians every month. The whole show will last approx. 75 minutes. Sat 9 Dec to Sun 31 Dec Beauty and The Beast Soap star, actress and singer Shona McGarty leads the cast of the Orchard Theatre’s spectacular and enchanting family pantomime Beauty and the Beast as Belle. The Stag Theatre Sevenoaks TN13 1ZZ Box Office: 01732 450175 www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk The Snowman™ at The Peacock Theatre
Fri 8 Dec to Sun 31 Dec Aladdin With laugh-out-loud jokes, fabulous costumes and magical special effects that will leave you in awe, you’ll be singing along to all your favourite songs. And, of course, no Aladdin pantomime is complete without a larger-than-life Genie, who will grant your every wish. So, dust off your old lamp and give it a good rub because you won’t want to miss this fantastic show. Malthouse Theatre, Canterbury, CT2 7JA Box office: 01227 287234 www.malthousetheatre.co.uk Thu 14 Dec to Mon 1 Jan Snow White The Malthouse Theatre in association with Gardner Hodges Entertainment are proud to present Canterbury’s Fairest Pantomime of all, Snow White! This year’s production will feature stunning sets and costumes, spectacular special effects, side splitting comedy and a dazzling West End cast. The Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone, ME14 1PL Box office: 01622 758611 www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/ Hazlitt-Theatre Wed 15 Nov The Wizard Of Oz Join Ballet Theatre UK and follow the yellow brick road to discover all the wonders of Oz. Set to a classical score which brings the story to life, this production is family-friendly and is the perfect way to introduce children to the classical ballet. The production is presented with beautiful backdrops, stunning theatrical sets and costumes evoking the iconic sketches by W.W. Denslow, from the original publication. Sat 25 Nov to Sun 31 Dec Peter Pan Join Wendy, Michael and John as Peter Pan takes them on a magical journey to Neverland. Along the way meet Tinkerbell, The Lost Children, Tiger Lily, Mrs Smee and the Pirates and of course the infamous Captain Hook. With audience participation, fun for all the family and dazzling special effects this promises to be our most spectacular pantomime ever.
Thu 21 Dec to Sun 24 Dec The Adventures of Arthur Christmas This Christmas join the Hazlitt as you go on an adventure with Arthur Christmas. When Santa forgets to deliver one present, can Arthur rise to the challenge and live up to his family name? £15. Ages 5+. The Rylance Theatre Ashford TN24 9AL Box Office: 01233 367 399 www.ashfordpantomime.co.uk Fri 15 to Sat 30 Dec Cinerella Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients Ashford audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming. From £15. All ages. The Marlow Theatre The Friars, Canterbury CT1 2AS Box Office: 01227 787787 www.marlowetheatre.com Fri 24 Nov to Sun 7 Jan Aladdin Don’t miss this fun-filled family pantomime Aladdin, starring TV and West End star Kevin Clifton, children’s favourite TV presenter, Phil Gallagher and Marlowe Legend Ben Roddy. The show will be written and directed by Paul Hendy and produced by Evolution Productions. Sat 9 Dec to Sun 31 Dec The Littlest Yak This musical adaptation of the award-winning children’s book will delight audiences young and old with beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and an uplifting tale of selfacceptance for all the family. Based on the book by Lu Fraser and Kate Hindley. Ages 3+. The Orchard Theatre Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1ED Box Office: 0343 310 0033 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk Mon 13 Nov Bring Your Own Baby Comedy The funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. The events are all about you, the parents! The shows
Fri 8 to Sun 31 Dec Jack & The Beanstalk Fee-fi-fo-fum, a giant of a panto full of fun! See website for available times and prices. Sun 10 & Sat 23 Dec Baby Broadway Christmas Family Concert A fun interactive Christmas performance with West End singers. The whole family can sing and dance along to seasonal songs from hit musicals and Christmas films. Ages 0-7. Trinity Theatre Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP Box Office: 01892 678 678 www.trinitytheatre.net Sat 9 to Sun 31 Dec Cinderella A Christmas pantomime for all the family. With a highly entertaining score of popular songs from the charts and musical theatre, our enchanting Fairy Godmother conjures a recipe for love to ensure that everyone lives happily ever after and audiences return home feeling warm, Christmassy and full of festive joy. Wed 27 6pm – BSL Interpreted and Thu 28 2pm – Relaxed Performance. Tue 12 Dec to Sun 24 Dec The Princess And The Winter Dragon A charming, rhyming tale of adventure and unlikely friendship, including a magical dragon puppet. Ages 4+. The Peacock Theatre London, WC2A 2HT Box Office: 020 7863 8222 www.sadlerswells.com/your-visit/ peacock-theatre 18 Nov to 30 Dec The Snowman™ This winter family favourite is the timeless tale of a boy and a snowman who comes to life. Back for it’s 26th year, The Snowman™ is a magical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson. Showing times and prices are available online, plus there is a relaxed performance on Wed 29 Nov, 2.30pm and a BSL performance on Sat 9 Dec, 7pm. Tickets from £18. Book online at www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/ the-snowman-2023
November/December 2023
Your festive guide to
What's On
Christmas Fairs & Markets All listings are correct at the time of going to print. Sun 26 Nov Christmas Craft Fair River Village Hall, Dover, CT17 0RA A fantastic Christmassy event showcasing over 35 local crafters and their beautiful items. 10am3pm.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS Thu 9 Nov Christmas Fair Hever Castle, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk Find gifts, gadgets, textiles and decorations. 10.30am-3pm.
Sat 2 Dec Christmas Market Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com A wide range of stallholders joining us alongside some great festive entertainment. 10am-2pm.
10 Nov to 27 Dec Christmas Market & Lights Canterbury, CT1 2TF www.visitkent.co.uk The annual traditional Christmas market, entertainment and sparkling lights with wooden huts dotted throughout the city centre. Thu 16 Nov to Sun 19 Nov Chartwell’s Festive Fair Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS www.nationaltrust.org.uk Take a look through a wide range of local gifts from crafts, art and accessories to food and drink, all from undercover stalls. Sat 18 Nov St Catherine’s Christmas Fayre The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ www.thealex.org.uk Featuring stalls, raffle, lunches and Queen Victoria. 10am-2.30pm. Sun 19 Nov Christmas Artisan Market Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge, TN9 1BG www.tonbridgecastle.org Discover local traders, unique items and a fantastic atmosphere. You’ll find everything from food and drink to gifts and household essentials.
Sat 25 Nov Christmas Craft Fair Queens Road Baptist Church, CT10 1NU www.visitthanet.co.uk This indoor market, in aid of Global Challenge UK is run by volunteer trustees who work closely with charity coordinators and volunteers in Uganda. 10am-4pm. Sat 25 Nov and Sun 26 Nov Ightham Mote Festive Fete Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk Pick up a unique and handmade gift for a loved one. Afterwards, be sure to drop into the main house to explore the sparkling Tudor Christmas decorations. 10am-4pm.
Sat 25 Nov to Sun 10 Dec Rochester Christmas Market Rochester Castle Gardens, ME1 1SW www.visitkent.co.uk Set in the spectacular Rochester Castle gardens, the Christmas Thu 23 Nov market is held over three Festive VIP Shopping Event consecutive weekends. It’s the ideal Millbrook Garden Centre, Nr place to search for that special gift Staplehurst, TN12 9BT and stocking fillers by wandering www.millbrookgc.co.uk around the many craft and trade Enjoy this festive VIP shopping BLI Christmas_ Advert 180x85mm.pdf 1 06/10/2023 10:16 stalls. event whilst helping to raise money for charity. 6-8pm. £5. Book online.
Sat 25, Sun 26 Nov & Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec Artisan Crafts and Gift Market The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ www.thealex.org.uk A selection of the best of Kent’s craft and gift products, including jewellery, homeware, artwork, photography, candles, soaps, clothing, beauty, food and much more. FREE. 10am-3pm. Sat 25 Nov and Sun 26 Nov Hospice in the Weald: Christmas Market Maidstone, TN2 4TA www.visitkent.co.uk Enjoy a Christmas Market with all stalls located outside under marquees. Santa’s grotto returns (pre-book) and a selection of stalls providing crafts, decorations, fashion, jewellery, home décor and more! 10am–4pm. Sun 26 Nov Christmas Ramsgate Handmade and Vintage Fair Ramsgate Town Centre, CT11 8LP www.visitthanet.co.uk Enjoy this handmade and vintage fair, lights switch on and more. See Santa and enjoy lots of lovely stalls with gifts and decorations!
Sun 3 Dec Tunbridge Wells Christmas Artisan Crafts and Gift Market One Warwick Park Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5TA www.stallandcraftcollective.co.uk Wide range of stores and independent shops, banks, restaurants, pubs, cafés and eateries. 10am-3.30pm. Sat 9 Dec Christmas Craft Market Maidstone Museums, ME14 1LH www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk Come and see the lovely gifts and goodies that will be available and then to explore the galleries. FREE. Sun 10 Dec Barham Christmas Craft Fair Barham Village Hall, Canterbury, CT4 6NX A local craft fair full of amazing locally crafted items. 10am-2pm. Sat 16 Dec Sevenoaks Christmas Stag Plaza Artisan Crafts and Gift Fair The Stag Plaza at The Stag Theatre Community Arts Centre, Sevenoaks, TN13 1ZZ www.ukcraftfairs.com A fabulous fair at the Sevenoaks Stag Plaza, right in the heart of the prime shopping area of Sevenoaks.
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November/December 2023
Families Kent 11
WHAT’S ON
Your festive guide to
What's On
Christmas Events & Family Fun All listings are correct at the time of going to print.
CHRISTMAS EVENTS Wed 15 Nov to Sun 7 Jan Walking with The Snowman™ Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP www.nationaltrust.org.uk Inspired by Raymond Briggs’ timeless festive tale, this winter discover 12 giant The Snowman™ sculptures in the parkland and courtyards. Walking with The Snowman™ is presented by the National Trust and Wild in Art in collaboration with Penguin Ventures. FREE but normal admission to Knole applies.
ICE SKATING Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Fri 1 Dec to Mon 1 Jan SKATE Tunbridge Wells The outdoor ice-rink and festive stalls offer spectacular views of the beautifully lit park, creating a unique and special seasonal experience! Open daily 10am to 8pm (excluding Christmas Day). Save £2 by booking online in advance. Parent & Toddler Ice Skating Sessions for parents and under 4’s to enjoy the separate Parent & Toddler Ice Rink. Weekdays 12-4pm, weekends 10am-2pm (exlcuding Christmas Day). Early booking advised. Parent & toddler with seal £16. Save £2 by booking in advance. Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST www.bluewater.co.uk Tue 14 Nov to Sun 7 Jan Ice Rink Located outside the Village, near Zizzi’s, the rink will sit under a clear roof, making it the perfect activity this festive season. Offering plenty of
fun for guests of all ages, the Ice Rink will be running quiet sessions, as well as parent and toddler sessions for budding skaters. Penguin and seal skating aids will be available for little ones. See online for more info and to book tickets. Quex Adventure Farm Park Birchington, CT70BH www.quexadventurefarmpark.com Fri 1 Dec until Mon 1 Jan Skate into Quex Enjoy our 150 square meters of Real Ice and skate your way into the Christmas spirit! Underneath the canopy of our Giant-Marquee, you can enjoy skating rain or shine. Toddlers on Ice A Winter Wonderland for Little Ones and exclusively designed for under 5,’s. Weekdays during term time, 10am-12pm, bring your toddler for a frosty adventure they’ll cherish. Ticket includes admission for one adult and one toddler, complete with comfy ice skates. You can also enjoy full access to Quex Adventure Farm Park. Two sessions 10-10.45am and 11-11.45am, all for just £19.95 (add a skate aid for just £5).
Festive family fun at Millbrook Garden Centres There’s so much to see and do this Christmas at Millbrook. Enjoy fun-filled festive events, choose your premium Britishgrown Christmas tree, take a selfie in a stunning themed decoration display and pick up presents and plants for everyone on your list! There’s fun to be had for all the family. Check out the Festive VIP Shopping event, Frosty Adventure Parties for kids (featuring a special snowman) and at their Staplehurst centre only, Christmas crafts with The Creation Station, plus a children’s mini carousel. From the 16 to 31 December, Millbrook family members’ kids eat for less, so be sure to indulge in some delicious seasonal fare at the Mill or greencafe. Stock up on delicious festive food and drink, find the perfect foodie gift and support local businesses at the same time in the food hall. Choose from over 600 products from more than 43 nearby suppliers. Book online now at www.millbrookgc.co.uk 12 Families Kent
Fri 17 Nov to Sun 31 Dec Christmas at Bedgebury Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Goudhurst, TN17 2SJ www.forestryengland.uk Christmas at Bedgebury has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas. Discover softly lit doves delicately balanced on branches, reed-like neon structures, sparkling tunnels of light and the Pinetum filled with all the colours of the rainbow as you walk under Liquid Sky, just one of the new displays to see this year. Sat 18 Nov to Mon 1 Jan Christmas at Hever Hever Castle, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk This Christmas at Hever Castle, spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy a seasonal experience to remember. The magical Christmas Lights experience starts from 4pm when you can wrap up warm and enjoy a walk under the stars to explore the grounds. Witness the enchantment of the Castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights, capturing the spirit of Christmas.
Sat 18 Nov Sittingbourne Christmas Lights Switch On Sittingbourne High Street www.facebook.com/ SittingbourneChristmasLights All day Christmas market, funfair, live entertainment and Santa’s grotto. Sat 18 Nov to Sun 24 Dec Christmas Grotto The Reindeer Centre, Bethersden, TN26 3EQ www.reindeercentre.co.uk Come and meet Father Christmas and his magical reindeers. Walk through a 150ft magical grotto, head into the big Christmas barn and meet all the other wonderful farm animals, feed reindeer and have fun in the popular snow pit plus much more. Book online. Sat 18 Nov to Sun 7 Jan Mice at the Mote Christmas Trail Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk See if you can spot all the mice hidden around the garden and house this Christmas! This trail is FREE but donations are welcome. Pick up your trail sheet and pencil in Visitor Reception or from the main entrance to the house. Sat 18 Nov to Sun 7 Jan Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk Immerse yourself in a Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote, with music, lights and scents, inspired by the history of the property. Wed 20 to Fri 22 Dec Christmas Activities Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH www.canterbury-cathedral.org Enjoy family-friendly Christmas crafts from 11am-3pm. Included with admission.
There’s something for everyone in Tunbridge Wells this Christmas From 1 December, SKATE TW returns and features bavarian curling, a parent & toddler rink, ferris wheel and a virtual reality sleigh ride that takes you to visit Father Christmas in his grotto! Get ready for laughter, love and enchantment as the beloved furry-tail, Beauty and the Beast, comes to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from 9 to 31 December. Expect side-splitting adventures featuring star of stage and screen, Rita Simons, returning CBBC star Stewart McCheyne, our wonderful Belle, Abigail Green and award-winning ame James Peake! For the young ones, The Amelia Scott is presenting its own Christmas show, Little Owl and the Christmas Lights from 8 to 24 December. This magical production combines puppetry, original songs and spectacular animations. A perfect introduction to live performance. Visit www.festivetw.com for more information. November/December 2023
WHAT’S ON
WHAT’S ON
Your festive guide to
What's On
Fri 24 Nov to Sun 31 Dec Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle Maidstone, ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com Returning for the all-new reimagined, magical Christmas trail featuring enchanting illuminations and Christmas music, lighting up the historic Leeds Castle. Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov & Weekends in Dec Santa Specials The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, New Romney, TN28 8PL www.rhdr.org.uk Santa Specials include a return train journey from New Romney to Hythe and a visit to Santa in his Grotto, with a quality, age-related gift for all booked children up to 15 years. Quiet train available on Sun 26 Nov. Prebooking is essential. Sat 25 Nov to Sat 23 Dec Chartwell’s Storybook Christmas Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS www.nationaltrust.org.uk This year, Chartwell have been celebrating literature in memory of Sir Winston Churchill. At Christmas time, they will explore the favourite childhood books of one of his beloved daughters, Mary Soames. The house will be decorated for a family Christmas in the 1930s with nods to the world of children’s literature as if seeing the home through the eyes of Mary’s imagination. Trail is £3 with a prize. Sat 25 Nov to Sun 24 Dec Mission Christmas: The Clausometer Catastrophe The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4, 4TZ www.thedockyard.co.uk Have you ever wondered why The Historic Dockyard Chatham closes every December? For over 400 years, Dockyard workers past and present have been keeping a heavily guarded Christmas secret. This December you’re invited to step into the centre of this secret world and help Mrs Claus save Christmas from catastrophe. Sat 25 Nov to Sun 24 Dec (Selected dates) Christmas at Kent Life Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU www.kentlife.org.uk A festive extravaganza awaits you at this Christmas Experience! Get ready to say “Ho Ho Ho!” as you embark on a magical journey. Sat 25 Nov to Sun 24 Dec Enchanted Grotto Angels Marquee, Tonbridge, TN10 3JF www.onceuponawishevents.co.uk An enchanting journey awaits you where cherished moments come alive through festive activities such as gingerbread decorating and captivating live theatrical performances. Sat 25 Nov to Mon 1 Jan A Narnia Christmas at The Castle Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com This Christmas, enjoy an enchanting festive experience, bringing the November/December 2023
beloved story of The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe to life. Embark on a magical journey through the wardrobe and take in the wonder of Christmas in Narnia. Sun 26 Nov to Sat 30 Dec Christmas at the Castle Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge, TN9 1BG www.tonbridgecastle.org Taking place in the grounds of Tonbridge Castle, Kent, this event brings a winter spectacle to life with a range of experiences, including a Christmas Market, an Alpine Bar and an Illumination light trail. Throughout Dec Santa’s Farm Quex Adventure Farm Park Birchington, CT70BH www.quexadventurefarmpark.com Join Mrs Claus for a fun and festive session exclusively for under 5’s. Santa’s Farm is the perfect treat for the Christmas loving toddler and is a brilliant accompaniment to The Elf Express! So grab your welly’s for some muddy Christmas fun! Fri 1 to Sun 24 Dec A Magical Flight to Visit Father Christmas Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2LU Set in Calverley Grounds next to the beautiful ice rink, prepare for a truly magical adventure as you embark on an unforgettable journey to the North Pole to visit Father Christmas! Book now for an enchanting festive adventure!
Christmas Events & Family Fun All listings are correct at the time of going to print.
Sat 2 & Sun 3, Sat 9, Sun 10, Sat 16 & Sun 17 Dec Breakfast with Santa Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com Children aged 3+ will be served a children’s full breakfast followed by an appearance by the big man himself! Ages 0-2 includes toast & jam and an age-appropriate gift from Santa. Accompanying adults, no food or drink included but can be purchased. 10-11am. Sat 2 & Sun 3 Dec Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival Rochester Town Centre www.visitmedway.org Step back in time and start the festive season in Dickensian style. Experience street entertainment, readings, song and dance. You’ll be captivated by Dickens’ characters as you explore the literary journey that was the great writer’s life. Sat 2 to Sat 16 Dec Father Christmas’s Fireplace Maidstone Museums, ME14 1LH www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk Meet Father Christmas in his cosy library, leave your wish with him and receive a present! Families are advised to book consecutive slots for more than one child. 10am-4pm.
Sat 2 to Fri 22 Dec Candy Cane Children’s Trail Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com A cheeky elf has hidden candy canes around the gardens. Mrs Clause tried to find them as did Rudolph but neither could find them all. Can you help find the candy canes? Each cane has a letter which spells out the cheeky elves name. When you’ve found them all, head back to the café where a candy cane prize awaits you. Runs alongside the Christmas markets. £3. 9am-3pm. Sat 2 to Sun 24 Dec The Elf Express Quex Adventure Farm Park, Birchington, CT7 0BH www.quexadventurefarmpark.com The Elf Express this Christmas and immerse yourself in the Magic of the Elf Kingdom and Magical Elf Woods. Our elves need your help to prepare for the big day and can’t wait to welcome you to their world full of festive fun and magic. With thousands of Christmas lights, sweet treats and memorable encounters with Santa’s top elves, the Elf Express is a unique and unrivalled interactive theatrical treat this Christmas. The Elf Express at Quex Park is the Christmas treat not to be missed.
Fri 1 Dec to Mon 1 Jan Christmas Goat Walking Quex Adventure Farm Park Birchington, CT70BH www.quexadventurefarmpark.com Walk our beautiful Anglo Nubian goats through Quex Park this Christmas – the perfect stocking filler or festive treat for the animal lover in your life! Sat 2 Dec Children’s Christmas Disco Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com Dance away to some of the best children’s party songs and the big man himself will even be making an appearance. Sat 2 Dec Cliftonville Christmas Festival The Oval Bandstand & Lawns, Margate, CT9 2HL www.theovalbandstand.co.uk Gifts, entertainment and festive fun for all the family. 12-7pm. Sat 2 Dec Father Christmas: SEN Session Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk A cosy one-to-one session with Father Christmas in the beautiful Great Hall. This is an accessible, SEN-friendly session aimed at providing a more relaxed and calm Father Christmas experience. With reduced noise levels and crowds.
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WHAT’S ON
Your festive guide to
What's On
Sat 2 & Sun 3, Sat 9, Sun 10 & Sat 16 to Sat 23 Dec A Truly Magical Christmas Rare Breeds Centre Ashford, TN26 3RJ www.rarebreeds.org.uk/events Enjoy fun and festive days on the farm, where everything will be sparkly and truly magical. Enjoy a 20-30 minute interactive performance in the Christmas Grotto with Father Christmas, Mrs Christmas and two of their cheeky elves. Pre-book. Sat 2 Dec to Mon 1 Jan An Ant’s Christmas Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA www.nationaltrust.org.uk Enjoy this six-point sculpture trail around the garden as the ants prepare for Christmas. There will be surprise sightings of Christmas characters, a picture-perfect spot on the ants’ sleigh and willow sculpture scenes. The trail is £3, includes an activity sheet and a prize at the end. Sun 3 & Sun 10 Dec The Once Upon a Christmas Ball Angels Marquee, Tonbridge, TN10 3JF www.onceuponawishevents.co.uk The Once Upon a Christmas Ball is a mesmerising blend of Christmas magic and wonder, featuring a delightful cast of fairy tale characters, playful festive elves, and, of course, the jolly Father Christmas himself. Sat 9 to Thu 21 Dec Christmas at Tyland Barn Maidstone, ME14 3BD www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk Bring the family to create a wildlife inspired lantern to use as we head off to explore the grounds on a seasonal trail. Can you help make sure all the animals are home for Christmas? £15 admission for one child and one adult. Sun 10 Dec Dine with Santa Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG www.salomons-estate.com Kickstart the festivities with a delicious three-course Sunday roast. Enjoy magical tales from Santa and his elves and for the children on his nice list, a special surprise awaits. 12–3pm. £35 per adult. £17.50 per child (includes gift). Fri 15 to Fri 22 Dec Christmas World Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ www.dreamland.co.uk Featuring a variety of attractions, activities, entertainment, food and more, Christmas World will have something for all ages. FREE, with a selection of ticketed activities. 11am-6pm (on selected dates). Sat 16 Dec Santa’s Grotto The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ www.thealex.org.uk Save the date for visiting Santa ahead of the big day. 9am-5pm.
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Christmas Events & Family Fun All listings are correct at the time of going to print.
Sat 16 to Sun 24 Dec Children’s Mini Carousel Millbrook Garden Centre, Nr Staplehurst, TN12 9BT www.millbrookgc.co.uk Enjoy some fun-filled festive events, explore the stunning themed decoration displays, or pick up presents and plants, Children can also experience the joy of taking a ride on the Children’s Mini Carousel. £3. Ages 3-12.
the Christmas magic and relax and enjoy an awe-inspiring light show after the hectic festive period.
Mon 18 Dec Children’s Christmas Workshop Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP www.nationaltrust.org.uk Decorate your own wooden decoration to take home. All materials will be provided, including paint and other craft materials. Normal admission applies.
Sun 31 Dec Children’s New Year’s Eve Party Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com Come and party away and when the clock strikes 5.30pm your little ones can see in the New Year. The DJ will be playing some of the best songs from the year with lots of fun and games mixed in. Pre-book.
Mon 18 & Tue 19 Dec Meet Father Christmas Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT www.nationaltrust.org.uk Father Christmas has travelled all the way from the North Pole to Ightham Mote to visit us this Christmas. 11am, 1.15pm or 2.30pm. Mon 18 & Tue 19 Dec Frosty Adventure with ‘Mascot Moments’ Millbrook Garden Centre, Nr Staplehurst, TN12 9BT www.millbrookgc.co.uk Come along to Frosty Adventure with ‘Mascot Moments’ this Christmas. Hosted by the Snow Queen and Princess, this party is one hour of non-stop fun for boys and girls. Booking required. Limited availability. Mon 18 to Thu 21 Dec Santa’s Storytime Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN www.nationaltrust.org.uk Santa has set up Santa HQ in the old castle, he’ll be sharing one of his favourite stories in a few special bookable small group gatherings. Mon 18 to Sat 23 Dec Santa’s Grotto Salomons Estate Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG www.salomons-estate.com Delight in the perfect family day out with a festive treasure trail, gingerbread decorating, reindeer food making and joyful activities for all with plenty of chocolatey treats. £20 per child (adults free). Grotto slots available from 9.30am–4.30pm. Wed 20 Dec Painting Christmas Crafts The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ www.thealex.org.uk Unleash your creativity with fun, festive pottery painting and Christmas crafts. 10am–12pm or 1–3pm. Child £6. Tue 26 Dec to Mon 1 Jan Quex Illuminations Quex Adventure Farm Park Birchington, CT7 0BH www.quexadventurefarmpark.com Quex Illuminations is back for 2023 and is more sparky than ever. Extend
Sun 31 Dec Family New Year’s Eve Party Silvers, Margate, CT9 1DX www.facebook.com/silversmargate With something for all the family, from a kids disco and live entertainment to a toast drink at midnight. Pre-book.
GENERAL EVENTS Various dates Artisan Crafts and Gift Markets Sevenoaks and Tunbridge wells www.eventissima.co.uk A fabulous and very popular indoor Christmas market featuring the best of the area’s traders selling jewellery, fashion, artisan crafts, gifts, local food and more. FREE. 10am-3pm. Until Wed 6 Dec Stories and Rhymes Maidstone Museums, ME14 1LH www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk Listen to a story and rhymes, join in with actions, play instruments and make a themed paper craft to take home. Under 5’s. Until 31 Dec (Mon) Story Time The Amelia Scott Library Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS www.theamelia.co.uk Listening to stories is a great way to develop and encourage young children to read books. Come and enjoy a Story Time session on Mondays’s for ages 3-4 - it’s great fun! 11am. FREE. Until 31 Dec (Tue & Thu) Rhyme Time The Amelia Scott Library Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS www.theamelia.co.uk Come and join a fun and noisy singing session for children under 4. A FREE, fun and noisy way for under 4s to develop a love of language and a foundation for learning. Tue 10am and Thu 11am. Drop-in. Sat 4 and Sun 5 Nov Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular Maidstone, ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com Watch the famous Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular. Sat 4 Nov and Sat 2 Dec Baby and Children Market St Pauls Church Centre, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8RE www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk Buy or sell quality, gently used baby and children’s toys, clothes and equipment.
Sun 5 Nov The Real Guy Fawkes at Eastgate House Rochester, ME1 1EW www.visitkent.co.uk Hysterical history returns with an hour of interactive and gruesome fun. £10 call 01634 332700 to book. Ages 8+. Sun 5 Nov Children’s Bonfire Night Party Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com This is a firework free event. The DJ will be playing some of the best party songs with lots of fun and games mixed in. Topping off the entertainment will be a meet and greet session with the resident Alpaca. Sun 5, Fri 10, Sat 11, Sun 12 & Fri 17 Nov Jambs Owls Experience Hall Place & Gardens, Bexley, DA5 1PQ www.hallplace.org.uk Have a HOOT getting to know all the live owls including the opportunity to hold one! £4 adults, £3 children. 10am-5pm. Sat 11 Nov Fireworks Display Reuthe’s the Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB www.reuthes.com An evening of family fun to celebrate fireworks night with a bang. This will be an exclusive event with only 500 tickets available. Book online. Sun 19 Nov NCT Maidstone Nearly New Sale Invicta Grammar School, Maidstone, ME14 5DS www.nct.org.uk/maidstone These sales are different to most baby markets, as they don’t have stalls or stallholders. Instead, all the items are quality checked by volunteers and laid out like a department store. This allows shoppers to easily browse for exactly what they need and then pay for items all together at the till points. 1.45-3.15pm. £2 entry per person. Sat 25 Nov Nearly New Sale Mum2Mum Market, Singleton Village Hall, Ashford, TN23 5LB www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/ m2mmashford.html Your local baby and children’s market to buy and sell pre-loved goods. Visit this friendly community events. 1-3pm. Tue 28 Nov & Mon 18 Dec Messy Play The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ www.thealex.org.uk This interactive playtime is designed to ignite your child’s creativity and stimulate their senses. So put on your play clothes and join us for an unforgettable, mess-tacular experience that will leave your little ones giggling and asking for more. 6 months to 4 years.
November/December 2023