Christmas fairs, markets, grottos, festivals, places and spaces not to be missed this Christmas...
Gravesend Borough Market
Date TBC
The festive magic will be sprinkled all over Gravesend this Christmas, as we see the arrival of the wonderful market. With handmade Christmas gifts, sweet treats and a festive atmosphere, it's time to get in the spirit (that's if you're not already!) and prepare for a wonderful day out.
gravesham.gov.uk/leisure-culture/gravesend-borough-market <>
Canterbury Cathedral
November 15 – December 24
Mark the date in your diary as Canterbury’s 600-year-old Christmas market returns to the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral. For a truly special season, witness the revival of a centuries-old tradition, stepping foot onto the grounds of the Cathedral to enter a world of handmade goods, food and drink, and spectacular performances.
canterbury-cathedral.org/news/posts/historic-christmas-market-returns/
The Abode
November 29 – December 24
Right around the corner from Canterbury Cathedral, The Abode is decking the halls and bringing festive cheer in the best way possible – with food! Tuck into a lavish Afternoon Tea full of seasonal flavours, and if you fancy getting creative, pair that with a Wreath-Making Masterclass and take home your very own decoration to hang proudly on the door!
abodecanterbury.co.uk/christmas-and-new-years-eve
Corkk
November 14, November 28
The wine experts at Corkk have got you covered this gifting season, hosting a tasting session in November that will provide you with plenty of present inspo. Treat yourself to a second tasting in December, where you’ll be guided through opulent, classic, and memorable flavours to whet your palette and leave you with some wine-tasting jargon to really impress the Christmas party crowds!
corkk.co.uk/winetasting
Tenterden Town Christmas Market
November 22-24
Christmas is coming to Tenterden, coinciding with the stunning light switch on. Whether you’re browsing for stocking fillers or looking to fill up on festive goodies, from international street cuisine and artisan grocery foods to handmade, arts and crafts, clothing, jewellery and accessories – there’s something for even the most difficult to buy for friends on the list!
zoomevents.co.uk/tenterden-christmas-market/
Ashford Designer Outlet
Date TBC
One of our go-tos this time of year is the Ashford Designer Outlet, home to some of our favourite designer brands offering up to 60 per cent off, making it the ideal spot to get on top of that gift list. Plus, this year sees the arrival of their Christmas Market, where plenty of local makers will be sharing their craft. A browse through the stalls, a bite to eat in one of the Outlet’s foodie havens, and even a visit to see Santa in his grotto – now that’s a dream day out!
Godinton House & Gardens
November 30– December 1, 14th December
Set within this stunning Jacobean House in the Kent countryside, we couldn’t ask for a better spot to get our dose of festive cheer. Jingle all the way to Godinton House & Gardens and get stuck into a morning of wreath making, backdropped by the beautiful, historic interiors of the house, or spend an afternoon enjoying wonderful carol singing in the Great Hall.
godintonhouse.co.uk/events/
Kent Cookery School
Multiple dates throughout November and December
One of our favourites things about Christmas has got to be the food – those aromatic delights that fill the air, evoking fond memories of festive years gone by. Whether you’re planning the perfect dinner to host the whole family, or you want to try your hand at a new skill, the Kent Cookery School has got you covered with brilliant classes led by the experts.
kentcookeryschool.co.uk/
Rochester Market
November 29 – December 15
Come together and enjoy the magical festivities of Rochester’s Christmas Market. Just a short walk from Rochester Castle, catch the train down, explore nearby sights, and you’ll soon be in a winter wonderland. Browse for the perfect gift, sample delicious roasted chestnuts, and it wouldn't be Christmas without mulled wine now, would it?
visitmedway.org/events/rochester-christmas-market-2024-96680
Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival
December 7-8
The much-loved Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival is back, bringing Victorian festivities to the town for all to enjoy. Expect to find street entertainment, readings, song and dance as well as amazing Dickens characters as you explore the literary journey that was the great writer’s life.
visitmedway.org/events/rochester-dickensian-christmas-festival-2024-96679/
Historic Dockyard Chatham
Selected dates from November 24 – December 24
Prepare your children for an extraordinary journey this Christmas at the Dockyard, where they will embark on a quest to master the intricate art of elf magic and unravel the mysterious elf code. Delve into the brand-new adventure, ‘All Elves on Deck’, taking part in challenges to solve mysteries, and topped off with a visit to see Santa!
thedockyard.co.uk/events/mission-christmas/
Rochester Cathedral
December 14
Festive magic is ready to be found this December at the cathedral, including the return of the Christmas Carol Concert. Sit back and enjoy the show as the renowned choir brings to life the wonder of the season through song, with even the chance to join in for yourself on popular carols. Be sure to book in advance, and warm up those vocal cords!
rochestercathedral.org/new-events/2024christmascarolconcert
Kent Event Centre
November 15-17
As the biggest festive shopping fair in the area, you’re going to want to check out the Kent Event Centre’s Festive Food & Gift Show. Packed with Christmas gifts and presents for all ages, as well as delicious food and drink, this truly is a festive shopping day out that everyone can enjoy.
kentfestiveshow.co.uk
November 22– January 1 (lights), November 23 – January 5 (Nutcracker Christmas)
Our county’s iconic attractions are a must visit year-round, but they truly do shine come Christmas time. Take one look at Leeds Castle in the winter and you’ll see what we mean…the spectacular lights trail speaks for itself, and this year sees the arrival of their Nutcracker Christmas. Adventure, magic, and excitement awaits.
leeds-castle.com/events/christmas-lights-at-leeds-castle/
leeds-castle.com/events/nutcracker-christmas-at-leeds-castle/
Faversham market
December 14-15
In the heart of Faversham, local makers are coming together to bring you the popular Christmas market extravaganza for yet another year. Expect to find unique and quality gifts including, jewellery, fashion, beauty, artwork, artisan crafts, photography, candles, soaps and so much more.
favershammarket.org/events/
Belmont House
Dates in November and December
Join in on the creative fun at Belmont House & Gardens, where plenty of workshops are being held throughout the next two months. Paper stars, Christmas cards, wreaths and more will be made – and with lots of sessions already fully booked, you’ll want to get in early to secure your place.
belmont-house.org/events-page/
Bedgebury Pinetum
November 15–January1
Make this year memorable with your friends and family by venturing out to Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest to explore their after-dark trail, through tunnels boasting over a million twinkling lights and sounds. Don’t forget to grab a seasonal snack and drink from the café to complete your festive walk.
forestryengland.uk/bedgebury/christmas
Skate! In Tunbridge Wells
December 1 January 1 2025
Who doesn’t have this one on the hitlist this season? The Tunbridge Wells ice rink will be returning in December, so you’d better get your skates on! Pirouette, glide, or just gingerly make your way around this outdoor rink in the heart of Tunbridge Wells for a Christmas made for the movies.
visittunbridgewells.com/event/skate-royal-tunbridge-wells-ice-skating-rink
November 23 – January 5 2025
Step into a glittering world of magic, nostalgia, and wonder at Scotney Castle for a day out like no other. Taking you through varying Christmases (opulence at the opera to chaos at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party), get the festivities started in this fairytale castle. Be sure to check out their website to see all that’s on offer.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle/christmas-at-scotney-castle
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
November 18 – January 5 2025
We know this National Trust site best for its past residents, Vita Sackvillle-West and Harold Nicolson – but this Christmas, we’re delving deeper and going back to the Elizabethan Era for some traditional festivities. Wreaths, trees, yule logs, and even a new installation can be found, with the chance to make your very own wreath with foliage from the garden and estate.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/sissinghurst-castle-garden/events/676dc96b-472c-4e4f-b3a6-40c68d9663f8
Tonbridge Castle
November 24 – December 29
See stunning Tonbridge Castle as never before with a visit to the amazing Illuminate trail and Christmas market. This year features an extended lights trail around the historic castle grounds and expanded food and drinks court, so wander in wonder and don’t miss the marshmallow roasting station!
illuminatetrails.co.uk/
Reuthe's - The Lost Garden of Sevenoaks
December 7, 14, 21
Amidst these charming gardens, a world of magic is ready to unfold. Mark the date in your diary and head down to Reuthe’s on the weekends leading up to the big day (did someone say last minute gift buying?). We can’t wait for local sellers with beautiful goodies, live music to get us dancing, and of course a glass of their much-loved mulled wine.
reuthes.com/markets/
Ightham Mote
November 23 – January 5 2025
Dive into a Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote along with festive music, twinkling lights and the seasonal scents putting everyone in that festive spirit and showcasing the rich and colourful history of the property. Enjoy carol singing, seasonal feasts, craft workshops, and be sure to book in to meet Santa Claus on your visit too.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ightham-mote/a-tudor-christmas-at-ightham-mote
Deal Town Lights Switch On
November 23
Mark the start of the season in Deal, where the town will come to life in their light switch on at the end of November. Join the excitement of the crowd outside St George’s Hall in the High Street, witnessing the magic as thousands of lights sparkle and shine. Keep an eye out on their website for more details coming soon.
whitecliffscountry.org.uk/whats-on/deal-christmas-lights-switch-on
Christmas World at Dreamland
Dates in December
Only a short walk from Margate train station, see the iconic Dreamland transform into a winter wonderland in the much-loved Christmas World. An array of activities and entertainment awaits, from family-friendly performances, magical grotto experiences with Santa, snowball fights, sleigh rides, and Steins By The Sea for the grown-ups, without forgetting to mention the delicious food and drink scene there too.
dreamland.co.uk/event/christmas-world-2024/
Kent Life Heritage Farm Park
Selected dates from November 30 – December 24
Meet the man himself at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, where an extravaganza of winter magic is ready to take centre stage. After a visit to see Santa in his enchanting grotto, the little ones can build their own Be My Bear teddy bear, take a trip on The Jingle Express, and then relax as you settle down at The Snow Inn for a bite to eat.
kentlife.org.uk/event/experience-christmas/
Quex Park
November 30, December 1, 7, 8
This time of year, we love taking a wintry stroll through the outdoor landscapes of Kent. Take in beautiful sights and head over to Quex Park, where you can build your very own wreath. Join the gardening team as you pick your own foliage from the grounds, before putting together a Christmas decoration that’ll be the talk of the town. With a veggie lunch provided, we can’t think of a better way to spend a chilly afternoon…
powell-cottonmuseum.org/event/festive-wreath-making-experience/
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
If a Christmas getaway has always been on your bucket list, why not make your wildest dreams come true with a two-night stay at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve? Upon arrival on Christmas Eve, you’ll be welcomed with a festive drink before exploring Kent’s biggest wildlife park on a bespoke safari. Over the next two days, sit back and relax, soaking up the ultimate luxury as you tuck into festive feasts, cosy up by roaring fireplaces, explore the wildlife, meet a special visitor from the North Pole, and allow the team at Port Lympne to bring you an experience of a lifetime.
aspinallfoundation.org/christmas-2024/
Quarterhouse Folkestone – live shows and events
Dates in November and December
Showtime! Bring family and friends along to one of the many fantastic upcoming performances on the Quarterhouse’s lineup. Folkestone has made its name as a creative hotspot, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find plenty of shows to enjoy over the next two months. Whether it’s the Royal Ballet & Opera performance of Cinderella, or a special of ‘Murder, She Wrote’, there’s something for the whole group.
creativefolkestone.org.uk/folkestone-quarterhouse/quarterhouse-events/
Folkestone Harbour Arm
November 15 – December 24
The festive marketplace at Folkestone Harbour Arm is back for another year and we couldn’t be more excited. More free films, more entertainment, longer opening hours and even an opportunity to meet with Father Christmas! What’s better, you’ll still find all the amazing independent market stalls too, along with live music, carol services, and delicious food and drink.
folkestoneharbourarm.co.uk/events/festive-marketplace-2024/
Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Dates in November and December
Travel by train to Santa’s grotto and enjoy some seasonal treats with the Romney, Hythe, and Dymchurch Railway – and as it’s been running since 1981, it’s safe to say they know how to put on a show! Add something extra special to the day and enjoy an All-Day Festive Breakfast before you head off on a magical journey to meet the man himself.
rhdr.org.uk/special-events/santa-specials-2024/
Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa
The early bird gets the worm, so why not start planning those Christmas get-togethers? And we know just the place to do so. Set on Kent’s stunning coastline, this luxurious hotel will be the best backdrop to your festivities. Their range of live entertainment, activities, and festive food will give you all you need to celebrate the season.
hytheimperial.co.uk/christmas-new-years-events-2024/
Hever Castle
Dates throughout December
We’re stepping into Christmas at Hever Castle. The lights will be all aglow through the grounds from twilight, so wrap up warm and enjoy a fairy-lit wander under the stars. Visit in the day to see the Castle halls be-decked with holly and more and be sure to grab tickets to visit Father Christmas' grotto, a family memory not to be missed!
hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on/hever-castle-christmas/
Penshurst Place
December 7-23
The Penshurst Place Mini Panto is back for 2024 and this year follows the tale of Mother Christmas and the Elves, frozen in time by the wicked Ice Queen. Bring the little ones along and help Father Christmas rescue his wife and faithful helpers, restoring the magic of Christmas.
penshurstplace.com/whats-on/events-and-activities/2024-12/
November 23 – January 5 2025
Wrap up warm and head over to Knole Park, where grand trees and glistening decorations fill a selection of their historic showrooms. Objects from their collections, usually tucked away in the King’s Room, will take centre stage alongside plenty of festive sights to put a smile on everyone’s face, from the history buffs to those who are simply crackers for Christmas.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/knole/events/3f840235-b5ff-4bf3-b33e-2d279462bd9d
Quebec House
November 23– December 22
Quebec House will be throwing a Georgian inspired Christmas this year, complete with lights, greenery and a Georgian feast. Throughout December weekends, the house will be opening its doors to reveal roaring fires, natural foliage and even a Quebec gingerbread house. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate and mince pie at the Coach House!
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/quebec-house/events/06a0cacb-0b38-43f8-bc25-e0471838b579
Dates throughout December
Kids from 1 to 92 will find something to enjoy at Chartwell, as their dazzling line-up of events brings Christmas cheer aplenty. A visit to Churchill’s former home could see you walking a festive family trail, enjoying a traditional carol, or even raising a glass of champagne to celebrate the holiday in style.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/chartwell/events
Dover Castle
November 30– December 22
Head down to the iconic Dover Castle this Christmas so that you and the little ones can get your fix of festive cheer. There’ll be plenty of merriment, accompanied by live music to make your trip to the castle unforgettable. Top off the day as you gather round to hear Father Christmas tell some of his favourite seasonal stories, before getting to meet him and take home your very own gift!
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/dover-castle-festive-fun-2024/
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/dover-castle-father-christmas-2024/
Walmer Castle
Weekends from November 30 – December 22
Along the Kentish coast, we’ve got one more historic spot for you to add to your bucket list this month. Another English Heritage site, Walmer Castle & Gardens is going to be truly transformed into a winter wonderland, with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy over the next few weekends. Get stuck into the activities as the team brings something fun for everyone.
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/walmer-castle-festive-fun-2024/
Bloom Stays
Why not re-route Santa this year, and send him your next staycation spot, right here in cosy Kent? Relax and put the hustle and bustle of everyday life on pause as you and the family escape to your home-away-from-home, fit with games rooms, fireplaces, dining areas, and even your own home cinemas! So, get that list together, and let Bloom Stays find the perfect place for you to rest your head…
bloomstays.com/christmas-and-new-year-holiday-cottages-in-kent-2024
