TN CARD FOR TOTS

Tunbridge Wells is a wonderful place for young families with our beautiful parks, the Kent countryside on our doorstep and now an increasing number of independents catering for our younger residents. As a parent of young children myself, you’ll often find me at the following independents, all of which are TN card partners:

JESS GIBSON

TN Card talks

town centre!

RTW Together welcomes guest columnist, Jess Gibson of the TN card, a Tunbridge Wells reward scheme, to share her tips for expertly exploring our town centre’s independent scene.

IMAGES: JESS GIBSON STAMPEDE 6B CAMDEN ROAD, TN1 2PT

Since it opened in 2005, this independent children’s shoe shop has gone from strength to strength, and is much loved by parents in Tunbridge Wells and further afield for good reason. Owner Donna is an expert in children’s shoefitting and has won a host of industry awards.

The TN card is proud to support over 600 independent businesses in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, whilst raising funds for West Kent Mind. Members pay £2.99 a month or £24.99 a year to access hundreds of rewards for supporting local. For more information visit thetncard.com or download the TN card app on iOS and Google Play.

Stampede stocks stylish footwear for children of all ages that protect and care for young feet. There are over thirty brands on the shelves with everything from seasonal styles and cool, limited editions to hard-wearing school shoes and wellies. Donna also offers quality children’s clothing and balloon styling for every occasion.

Purchasing children’s shoes is never easy but Donna and her fully trained and knowledgeable staff make the process as stress-free as possible and parents can rest assured that their child’s feet are in good hands.

TN CARD MEMBERS RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT ON FULL PRICE PURCHASES IN STORE

CLAUDIA’S PLACE VALE ROYAL METHODIST CHURCH, VALE ROAD, TN1 1BX

Claudia is well known in our community for having been the face (and name) behind Casa Da Claudia on Castle Street. Her latest venture is Claudia’s Place - a brilliant new soft play café next to Oakley Fitness, in the heart of town. Claudia’s Place is small but perfectly formed, with a soft play area for under eights, a crèche and a café rolled into one. Her wonderful food and hospitality are reason enough to visit, but it’s also a place where parents can meet knowing their children are happy and well cared for.

Claudia’s Place is open from 8.30am to 4pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8.30am to 2pm on Saturdays.

TN CARD MEMBERS RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY HOT DRINK WHEN VISITING THE CAFE

THE INSIDE CALVERLEY ADVENTURE GROUNDS, TN1 1EP

Calverley Adventure Grounds in Calverley Park is one of our favourite places in Tunbridge Wells. The Inside, nestled within, adds a little extra magic. The café epitomises all that’s special about our independents - owner Laura has put lots of hard work, care and love into creating somewhere special for children (and adults) to enjoy.

The food at The Inside is homemade, hearty and sourced locally – such as fresh salads, toasties and children’s picnic boxes. Extra touches include the bags of eco friendly toys for the very young to borrow and gorgeous craft kits to purchase made by Laura herself.

Visit at Christmas or Easter and you’ll see the café transformed into a giant Gingerbread House perhaps or decorated in Easter eggs, with activities generously put on by Laura for the children.

TN CARD MEMBERS RECEIVE 15% OFF FOOD PURCHASES

WHIRLIGIG 90-92 MOUNT PLEASANT ROAD, TN1 1RT

This very special toyshop stocks a huge collection of things to make and do, designed to engage children and to get them thinking and creating. There are puzzles, construction kits, wooden toys, craft sets, retro toys, ecofriendly gifts and so much more. The shop is a delight to browse and children are kept enthralled by the mechanical model kits. Manager Matt is a kid at heart and will often be dressed up as Batman or some other superhero. He and the team couldn’t be more passionate or knowledgeable about their products and are on hand to help find the perfect gift for any age. We often visit for inspiration and leave with toys that are much loved by their recipient. ■

TN CARD MEMBERS RECEIVE 10% OFF FULL PRICE PURCHASES IN STORE