The October Half Term is quickly approaching! Find out things to do, places to visit and make the most of the break with the family in Tunbridge Wells. This break is a great opportunity to explore the exciting events on offer in our Borough. There are lots of different things to do, for all the family.
Scotney Castle
This half term take part in the goblin-themed activity trails in the Scotney Castle gardens. The Goblin King’s Lost Path is taking place from 10am to 5pm every day from the 18th of October to the 2nd of November. Additionally, little ones can hunt down 6 mischievous goblins hidden around the grounds and discover their quirky jobs at Scotney Castle. A magical adventure for younger children! Young visitors can help the goblins find their way back to their hideout by solving riddles, discovering magical doors, and uncovering hidden spells.
Make your choice on the trail for you, then pick up your choice of trails from Visitor Reception for £3 each. This includes a small gift and a sweet treat on completion from the Gift Shop. Find out more here.
Royal Victoria Place
Maybe an indoor activity in the centre of town suits you. If so, Royal Victoria Place offers some great fun across the half term!
There are five fun-filled events perfect for the kids taking place at Royal Victoria Place over the October Half Term. On the 20th and 21st of October, Kids Stuff presents two building block based sessions. The first Plus Plus event is taking place on October 20 Plus Plus is made of unique, single-shaped blocks for building and creative construction. The event is open from 10am to 4pm, there is a 1hr limit and no booking is required. On 21 October a Lego building session is taking place from 10am to 4pm to get creative imaginations flowing.
On 22, 23 and 24 October Once Upon a Wish are performing a series of excellent shows with enchanting themes. On October 22 and 24, enjoy Wickedly Wonderful, a story about two witches with songs, games and photo opportunities. On the 23rd, experience Hocus Pocus, a story about a wizard planning a birthday surprise. These are showing at 10am, 11:15am, 1pm, 2:15pm and 3pm. Again, no booking is required.
Aspens
Explore the exciting local animal farm and café at Aspens! Pick up a trail sheet from The Bluebell Café for their free Halloween trail, follow the clues, and return your completed answers to claim a super spooky treat. The Halloween trail is taking place everyday from Monday 20 to Friday 24 October. Aspens, Cornford lane, Pembury, is open from 10am-4pm on these days.
Plus, don’t miss the mosaic tile decorating activity at 11am on Wednesday, 22 October for just £3.50 per child (please text: 07916 158577 to book). Additionally, Aspens will also be firing up the BBQ on Wednesday 22 October, for £7.50 per adult and £5 for children (no booking required). This is an excellent local destination to explore!
Why not make a fun day out of it and visit the lovely animals at Aspens, including alpacas, emus, pigs and donkeys! They also have a playground, outdoor gym and a beautiful woodland walk – perfect for taking in the autumn colours. After all the fresh air, treat yourself to a delicious homemade cake and a pumpkin-spiced latte in the Bluebell Cafe. Find out more about all this here.
Spa Valley Railway
Other fun events are taking place over the October half term at the Spa Valley Railway. Enjoy the historic railway and ride on a Steam or Heritage Diesel train through idyllic scenery on Wednesday the 22nd, Thursday the 23rd, Saturday the 25th and Sunday the 26th of October. Additionally, High Rocks Halt will be open on Wednesday and Thursday so you can make a stop there and explore!
To add to this, KIDS GO FREE! Make sure to make the most of this brilliant deal and experience this charming heritage railway. There is also a Brick model railway weekend on the 25th and 26th.
Bedgebury National Pinetum
Maybe you want to spend some time exploring the great outdoors at Bedgebury National Pinetum. If so, the Sundown Adventures event by Go Ape is the perfect chance to adventure across the treetops, either at twilight or after sundown! There are limited spaces available on the evenings of the 24th, 25th and 26th of October. This event costs £31.95 per person. This is a great opportunity for an exhilarating outdoor experience with creative lighting guiding you through the trees. Find out more here.
The Amelia Scott
The Amelia Scott is hosting more Discovery Days (20th-25th) during the October half term! Plus there will be Relaxed Opening on the 25th from 2:30pm to 4pm (free with booking required), specially designed for those who prefer a more tranquil museum experience, including those with autism or other neurodiverse needs, along with their families and carers.
These events, catered to children, allow for exploration around the library and museum. This half term, guests can enjoy a spooky Halloween theme to the spooktacular days. There is sensory storytelling, and an activity station to enjoy. The event is free to attend!
