An enchanting Christmas market is set to transform a historic quarter of the elegant Kent town, Tunbridge Wells, for 24 days. The area, known for its timber chalets, twinkling lights and a decorated tree on the bandstand, could even see snowfall.
The Pantiles Christmas Markets, which have previously been the backdrop for festive television adverts for Morrisons supermarket and online retailer Very, are making a return this year. They will be open from November 14 until Christmas Eve, December 24. The Georgian colonnade, adorned with festive decorations and bustling with people, provides an idyllic setting for Christmas festivities, reports Kent Live.
Visitors can expect performances from musicians, choirs and local theatre groups, as well as family-friendly entertainment including a lights switch-on.
Pantiles Events, the organisers of the market, said: “This Christmas, The Pantiles will once again be transformed into a festive spectacle, offering an enchanting experience for traders and over 170,000 visitors alike. Join us for a celebration filled with festive cheer.”
They added: “Our annual Big Reveal takes place as part of the launch of our Christmas market, including a grand switch-on of The Pantiles’ dazzling lights, followed by family-friendly entertainment. Plus so much more. There’s sure to be something for everyone this Christmas at The Pantiles.”
The Christmas Markets are set to take place from 10am to 7pm on the following dates:
November: 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30.
December: 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24.
The Pantiles, a Georgian walkway and popular tourist spot, was previously named one of the UK’s Top 10 High Streets for Independent Shops by American Express, as reported by KentLive.
In recent years, there have been several new additions to The Pantiles, including Charlotte’s, Essence by Atul Kochhar, and Kypseli Greek Taverna, which is run by the same family that operates the co-working space, Hive, on the same site.
You can learn more about the Christmas market here.