Rainy Day Fun for Families in Tunbridge Wells
Kent might be renowned for its sunshine and charm, but even the prettiest regions can’t escape the occasional rainy day. Fear not, families! When the clouds gather and the pitter-patter starts, this delightful area has a hidden treasure trove of indoor activities guaranteed to keep little ones (and big ones!) entertained. So, ditch the umbrellas and step into a world of laughter, creativity, and adventure, all under the cosy cover of Tunbridge Wells’ welcoming roofs.
10+ things to do with kids on a rainy in Tunbridge Wells
1. Unleash Inner Explorers at our local Museum and Art Galleries: Embark on a journey through time at the Amelia Scott From discovering dinosaur bones and Roman artifacts to marvelling at Victorian fashion and local art, there’s something to spark every child’s imagination. Interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions bring history to life, while special family events and workshops provide hands-on fun. During the school holidays, Cranbrook Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts. Housed in a charming 15th-century timber-framed building, the museum’s collection tells the story of Cranbrook from its earliest days to the present, and includes exhibits on archaeology, local history, industry, and the arts.
2. Climb New Heights at Chimera Climbing Centre: Let gravity take a backseat as you scale the colourful walls of Chimera. This state-of-the-art climbing centre offers challenges for all ages and abilities, from tiny tots to seasoned adventurers. With auto-belay systems and friendly instructors, even first-timers can experience the thrill of reaching new heights. Birthday parties here are legendary, too!
3. Bowl Your Way to Victory at Hollywood Bowl Tunbridge Wells: Strike up some family fun at the Hollywood Bowl! This classic bowling alley isn’t just about knocking down pins – it’s an all-out entertainment extravaganza. Neon lights, arcade games, and delicious diner food add to the excitement. Grab your bowling shoes and get ready for a friendly family competition – who will be crowned the lane champion?
4. Get Crafty: Get your creative hat on and try out one the Arty Farty workshops or pottery paintings at Manic Ceramix in Royal Tunbridge Wells and Slap n Dash in Hawkhurst.
5. Journey Through Stories at Trinity Theatre: Step into a world of make-believe at the intimate Trinity Theatre (a former church). From puppet shows and children’s plays to interactive storytelling sessions and musical performances, there’s always something magical happening on this stage. Cosy up in the red velvet seats and let your imagination soar with captivating tales and talented actors.
6. Chugging Through the Rain: A rainy day becomes a cosy adventure with kids on the Spa Valley Railway. Snuggle into vintage carriages, watch raindrops paint the scenery, and choose your journey – verdant tunnels to Groombridge or a quick pub stop at Eridge. Steam trains billow magic, character appearances like Thomas or Chase turn rides into interactive games, and hot chocolate fills happy tummies. So book your tickets (especially for family events!), grab raincoats and snacks, and let the train’s rhythm, raindrops, and green landscapes weave a heart-warming rainy-day memory for your little ones.
7. Make a Splash at the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre: Rainy day blues got you feeling sluggish? Take a dip at the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre! With a sparkling swimming pool, and a dedicated toddler pool, it’s the perfect place to burn off energy and make a splash. If swimming isn’t your thing, there’s also a soft play area, badminton courts, and a climbing wall to keep everyone entertained.
8. Cosy Up with a book at the Amelia Scott: When the rain patters against the window, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book. The library in Royal Tunbridge Wells is a bibliophile’s paradise, with shelves overflowing with stories for all ages. Browse the latest children’s releases, meet your favourite authors at special events, or join a story time session for little ones on Mondays.
9. Savour Movie Magic: Let the silver screen whisk you away on a rainy afternoon. The Odeon Tunbridge Wells and Kino in Hawkhurst offer the latest blockbusters, family-friendly animations, and classic films to keep everyone entertained. Grab some popcorn, settle into comfy seats, and prepare to be transported to another world.
10. Treat Yourselves to a Delicious Reward: After a day of rainy adventures, reward yourselves with a well-deserved feast! Tunbridge Wells boasts an array of family-friendly restaurants, from cosy pubs with hearty roasts and fireplaces to trendy cafes with delicious brunches. Many pubs also have board games to fun filled meal for the whole family!
11. Soft Play Escapades: Escape the raindrops with lively soft play options at various locations. Bewl Water, Minor Mania, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, and Playworld at Royal Victoria Place promise hours of excitement for the little ones, ensuring they can burn off energy while staying dry.
Bonus:
Chocolate Dreams:Â Budding chocolatiers of all ages can whip up a world of cocoa-coated fun at Temper Temper’s children’s cookery workshops. Little hands get messy, and minds get creative as they learn to temper, pipe, and decorate delicious chocolates under the guidance of expert chocolatiers. From moulding playful animal shapes to crafting decadent truffles, each workshop bursts with laughter, learning, and of course, plenty of sugary treats to take home and share (or devour!). Whether it’s a school holiday treat or a birthday bash with a twist, Temper Temper’s workshops turn chocolate lovers into chocolate masters, one sprinkle at a time.
