If the thought of October half term is daunting to you, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a parent to teenagers or toddlers, the frantic panic to fill the diary with fun things to do has begun as most schools in Tunbridge Wells set to breakup on Friday 21st.
But from family dog walks to theatre productions, Halloween festivities to arts and crafts, Tunbridge Wells is packed full of great activities this October half term, and we’ve rounded up the best. So, to put an end to the dreaded words: ‘I’m bored’, keep reading…
Laser tag at Bewl Water
Grab your camo and paint on your war face – you’re going to battle!
Forget claustrophobic spaces, flashing lights, and unrealistic sound effects, laser tag at Bewl Water reinvents the game. Located in Lamberhurst just off the A21 Bewl Water’s hidden forest is home to an immersive combat zone where boys, girls, men, and women can face life-like scenarios on the battlefield.
Laser tag is like paintball, however there is no contact or painful pelts to every part of your body. Instead, thrill seekers will need to shoot laser beams at their opponents aiming to hit as many points as they can without getting zapped themselves.
Laser tag is as family friendly as it can get and is suitable for those over eight years old. Sessions last for 50 minutes, cost £15 and can be booked on Bewl Water’s website.
Spa Valley’s Trick or Treat Express
Packed full of comedy, magic, and mayhem, Spa Valley’s Trick or Treat Express is set to be another sell-out show this October half term. On October 29th and 30th a spooky train will depart from Tunbridge Wells West that promises an afternoon of tricks, treats and frightening fun. Entertained by Dr Frankenslime himself, kids of all ages will enjoy a wacky experiment or two before being met by the mad doctor at Eridge station.
Here, ghouls and ghosts will learn how to make a revolting concoction of the doctor’s famous glow in the dark slime, which, much to parents’ delight they can take home with them! You will then head back on board the haunted express before receiving a trick, or a treat along the way…
Pumpkin Picking
Nothing says October fun quite like pumpkin patches! Luckily for us, two of the best in Kent can be found in Royal Tunbridge Wells making for the perfect family day out this half term. Whether you want to use your picks for soups and pie or as a Halloween centrepiece, pumpkin picking is a great way to get into the seasonal spirit.
Over in Groombridge, Birchden Farm has heaps of land for you to enjoy. Boasting over 18,000 pumpkins spread across a five-acre patch, the farm will be open between October 21st – 30th and welcomes your furry friends too.
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the spooky spirit, make your way over to Pumpkin Field in Fordcombe where you’ll find a vibrant grassland packed full of pumpkins, a scarecrow hunt, face painting and sweet treats!
The Theatre
From classic musicals to local talent, Tunbridge Wells is home to two fantastic theatres boasting the cream of the crop when it comes to productions and this October half term is no different.
On October 30th, bring the whole family along to Trinity Theatre where Let’s All Dance Ballet Company returns with a fabulous family favourite – Alice in Wonderland. Expect beautiful dance, your children’s favourite characters and superb music that brings a much-loved tale to life!
After something more comical for you and the older kids? Head over to Assembly Hall Theatre where Harry Hill returns with brand-new amazing jokes in an all-singing, all-dancing one-man spectacular! Performing on October 22nd, the hilarious comedian is planning a very silly show making for a great half term family outing.
Family Dog Walks
Who doesn’t love a family dog walk? From beautiful greens to tranquil spaces, Tunbridge Wells is full of parks and grounds perfect for exploring with your fury friends this October half term.
If you’re after a picturesque route, Salomons Estate boasts 36 acres of scenic grounds and is packed with plenty of amenities. Likewise, Dunorlan Park, Penshurst Place and Tunbridge Wells Common are havens for curious, energetic dogs and their owners alike!
After something a little more action packed? Bewl Water offers cycle hire among a host of outdoor activities so you and your family can make a day of it!
Arty Farty Half Term
Whether you want to introduce the kids to a new hobby, level up their art skills or you just need to fill the half term diary with something fun, Arty Farty is the place to be to unleash your family’s creative side this October!
Located in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, the creative workshops welcome everyone of all ages and should most definitely be on your radar this half term. From ‘Family Crafternoon’ on October 22nd and 29th to ‘Halloween Decoration Day’ on October 25th, Arty Farty’s classes connect boys, girls, mums, and dads with their creative selves and are a must visit.
