May Half Term

Are you wondering what to do with the kids during the school holiday?

Look no further. Help is at hand; we’ve come up with some ideas for things to do around Tunbridge Wells over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

In this article:

The Best of Tunbridge Wells Life is Free
Adventures in the great outdoors
Family Friendly attractions around the Tunbridge Wells Borough
Rainy Days in Tunbridge Wells
What’s on during half term?
Plan your Stay

The Best of Tunbridge Wells Life is Free

This month sees an explosion of wildflowers and birdsong. Explore the green spaces on the doorstep.

Dunorlan Park, with its large lake, is a green and tranquil oasis, and we think, one of the best places to spend a lazy afternoon near Royal Tunbridge Wells. While you relax and unwind, the natural play area will keep the kids occupied as they explore and create their own amusements.

Hilbert and Grosvenor Park is a family favourite, for its large children’s playground, pond, dripping wells and nature reserve, together with the kick-around area.

The Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons are the place for free-wheeling fun and adventure. Explore the various trails on the Tunbridge Wells Common; look out for the birds and wildlife. There is something to discover around every corner. What will you find? At 256 acres there is a mass of space, all ready to be fully explored.

Create your own adventure in these wild playgrounds, full of mystery and enchantment and plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities.

More free things to do

Adventures in the great outdoors

With so much stunning countryside on the doorstep, the milder weather and longer days, the whole family can get outdoors and get active.

Since it is the National Month of Walking in May, you have ample opportunity here to do a spot of rambling. The miles of footpaths offer a chance to learn new, or brush up your existing, navigation skills, so grab a map and embark on an exciting adventure!

The Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk is a 27.5 mile long walk which shows you a handful of our most celebrated features, like the Rocks.

Of course, you can do as much or as little as you like, but why not take up the challenge of completing it over a few days? View the maps for accommodation and eateries on route. Pick up some fresh locally produced goodies for a delicious picnic from the delicatessens and farm shops across the region.

For a retreat from the hustle and bustle of life, head out and explore Bewl Water Reservoir, with its spectacular panoramic views across the water. Why not try fishing, laser challenge, open water swimming, the aqua park, camping, or soft play if you don’t want to walk or cycle around Bewl? If you are feeling active, cycle or walk the 12½ mile trail around the lake, bike hire is available.

Alternatively, take to your bike to appreciate the scenery at Bedgebury Forest. With its family friendly cycle routes for all abilities, it’s a fantastic place to spend the day (bike hire available). The Adventure Play area provides an exciting journey of exploration for the younger kids, replicating some of the ordeals faced by the plant-hunters throughout history. When you explore the National Pinetum you may spot the Gruffalo and his friends. Can you find them all? There are six Gruffalo sculptures hidden throughout the trees. A map is available from the visitor centre but there are no way markers on the trail. The total distance is about 3.5 kilometers (2.5 miles).

Family Friendly attractions around the Tunbridge Wells Borough

You can take a ride on a heritage diesel or steam train to get out of town for a spring walk in the beautiful Wealden countryside. Hop on and off as you wish at High Rocks, Groombridge village and Eridge.

The Spa Valley Railway travels through the stunning High Weald countryside and is easily accessible for all. View our events calendar for special May Holiday train rides and events. Kids love it and buggies, bicycles and dogs are all welcome free of charge.

Whether it be a classic afternoon cream tea or an immersive dinner experience full of laughter and drama the Spa Valley Railway has lots of exciting events planned for the holidays! We advise you to book soon, these are extremely popular. Hop on board at the Tunbridge Wells West station and explore the High Weald!

Penshurst Place is a former Tudor home of the Sidney family. See how the legend of opulence lives on in this stunning estate and manor home, once Henry VIII’s hunting lodge. The Tudor cycle route from Tonbridge to Penshurst is a pastoral joy to travel along too. Refreshments available in the cafe.

Take the kids along the woodland trail and the playground and wear ’em out outside!

Immerse your family in a fairytale adventure at Scotney Castle! Explore the romantic medieval castle ruins or the grand Victorian mansion. Venture outdoors and spot wildlife on the vast estate, or make a camp in the ancient woodland. For a shorter exploration, wander the picturesque gardens with hidden walkways, perfect for hide-and-seek. Refuel with a picnic by the moat or indulge in treats like hot chocolate and ice cream from the tea room or kiosk. Throughout the year, family events like Easter egg hunts and craft workshops add another layer of fun and learning to your visit. Keep an eye on our events calendar!

Rainy Days in Tunbridge Wells

If the holiday weather is less than perfect visit the Amelia Scott (free of charge) where you will find the children’s library & workshops, various exhibitions like the Story of the Wells, and Fine Grind Cafe where you can enjoy a warm drink and delicious pastries and cakes.

There are also various art exhibitions across the area. Admire uplifting paintings and drawings that represent local landscape, history and culture in all kinds of media – traditional and modern.

Cranbrook Museum is a sure-fire (free) delight for the family, in the lovely market town of Cranbrook which is also home to one of the tallest running smock windmills in the country – also free entry.

The Salomons Museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm – free entry! Come and see the collection of momentos from the famous family of Salomons. Sir David Lionel Salomons, was a scientist, engineer, photographer and inventor. Bet you didn’t know that this manor house was the first in the country to install electricity in a private home!! See the private theatre installed with one of the largest and most exceptional electrically powered philharmonic organs – the Welte Organ – and now the only one of its kind left in the world! This model was built especially for Sir David Lionel. His son and heir, Captain David Reginald Salomons, was such a hero in the First World War his life was made into a West End musical called ‘The Dreamers’.

Now that’s a nice segue into theatre! Lots of exciting shows and concerts going on at The Assembly Hall Theatre and Trinity Theatre (which is actually a former church) in Royal Tunbridge Wells or The Queen’s Hall in Cranbrook and Hemsted Park, a newly opened state of the art theatre and music hall, in Benenden. A unique experience! Visit our events calendar for more inspiration.

Would you like some more inspiration? View our guide full guide to rainy days in Tunbridge Wells.