Turning over a new leaf this autumn with some local walks
Autumn is a good time to turn over a new leaf, and what could be a better new leisure and social activity than exercise?
Whether you’re interested in joining an established group or you prefer having a single goal, there is something for you this September.
You can try out up to three walks before committing to joining Ramblers. According to the Tunbridge Wells group, ‘routes tend to be five to six miles as a rule’.
Separately, the organisation runs free ‘Wellbeing Walks’ for those who need a shorter and easier route, whether due to fitness or mobility issues, or small children. These are available to non-Ramblers members.
The next ‘TW Commons Saturday Saunter’ is on September 10 at 10:30am, starting near the car park in Fir Tree Road, but there are walks in other locations to ‘keep you going’ all-month long.
For a faster heartbeat, try Parkrun’s five-kilometre run or walk around Dunorlan Park. The Saturday morning crowd is made up of singletons, friends and families.
If you prefer a single goal, the Hospice in the Weald’s annual 10K run on September 18, starting from the Lower Cricket Ground, is an event to aim for.
“The 5K is a new addition introduced a few years ago to make it a bit more family friendly,” added a spokeswoman.
“There is no lower age limit for children but any child under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult.”
Find your local Ramblers group at ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/group-finder Annual membership starts at £36.60.
Or try the Ramblers’ separate free Wellbeing Walks at Beta.Ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/Wellbeing-Walks-Groups
Parkrun at Dunorlan Park on Saturdays at 9am. Free, but register at parkrun.org
Hospice Run September 18. HospiceInTheWeald.org.uk/events/hospice-run-2022 10K run is £25 adults, £15 children. 5K run is £15 and £10.
On Stage & Screen
Join The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle on August 27 as they celebrate the sound of Motown which forever changed the musical landscape. ‘No Town Like Motown’ revisits all the essential anthems from ‘My Girl’ to ‘My Guy’ and many between. It’s a whole era in one night. HeverFestival.co.uk
Frederick has been apprenticed to the Pirates since childhood. However, when he realises he is contracted to the Pirate King until his 21st birthday – and was born on February 29 – he faces living a life of crime until he is 84. With only the bumbling Penzance constabulary to protect him, will he last that long? Will his sweetheart Mabel wait that long for him? Find out on August 28 at Tonbridge Castle’s open-air theatre. Expect plenty of melodrama, sharp satire and glittering wit in this hilarious production. ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ tickets from TonbridgeCastle.org
A truly thrilling tale of owls, ghosts, chases and escapes comes to Scotney Castle on August 27. David Walliams’ best-seller ‘Awful Auntie’ is adapted for outdoor theatre by Heartbreak Productions. It follows the story of Stella, who must thwart her menacing aunt and save the family home. This tale could take some time to tell, so pack a picnic and a blanket or chair to sit on. Tickets from 01926 430 307.
Going Live
With a line-up of seriously experienced musicians, The Quo Experience promises to be anything but your standard tribute act. From ‘Living On An Island’ to ‘Burning Bridges’, expect five decades’ worth of Status Quo’s incredible music history at the Assembly Hall this Friday (August 26) at 7:30pm.
Local and Live brings four days of the best local musical talent to Calverley Grounds and The Forum over the Bank Holiday weekend (August 26-29). This festival promises free, fun-filled days out for music fans of all ages. Pack your picnic blanket!
Derek Nash’s Picante brings Latin music to The Orangery at Chiddingstone Castle on August 29. Think Buena Vista Social Club, Gypsy Kings, mambo, salsa and samba, jamming, all mixed up in a vibrant celebration of cultural rhythm. Bring your picnic blanket and chairs and arrive early to enjoy the grounds before showtime at 4:30pm.
Trinity Theatre celebrates its 40th birthday this bank holiday weekend, with a range of fun events, from the chance to perform variety on Friday night (August 26) to Saturday’s summer fête and ceilidh. Then ‘Muck In’ for a free cake-fuelled up on Sunday.
Family Fun
Seeking a leisurely afternoon treat this Bank Holiday weekend? Head over to Salomons Estate on August 26 to enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea, in alfresco style. Enjoy delicious homemade cakes, delicate finger-cut sandwiches and buttery scones amid the estate’s 36 acres of stunning scenery.
For more sweet treats, head over to One Warwick Park Hotel and try their Champagne Afternoon Tea on Thursdays and Sundays.
This Sunday (August 28), enjoy Summer Storytelling at Penshurst Place. Darting through the greenery and flora of the gardens, the actors of Aardvark Productions reimagine some of the classic tales we grew up with.
Performances at 11:15am, 12:15pm, 2:15pm and 3:15pm. Free with admission ticket.
Part of RTW’s Art Week, this Sunday’s (August 28) ‘Building 3D Creations’ will test children’s imaginations as they transform ordinary cardboard boxes into wonderful structures. Led by toy specialists Whirligig Toys, this free workshop is suitable for children aged 6-8. Advanced booking required. Details at RTWTogether
