Lilly Croucher’s edit of the month’s most entertaining events happening in January
Historical Beauty Spot
The weather might be cold and damp but that shouldn’t put you off doing some fun things in January. The good news is there’s plenty to see and do this month including wonderful walks out in nature, fun comedy to catch and great films to enjoy. January may be a long and dark month to get through but we think this selection of events will definitely brighten your days and nights…
Tunbridge Wells’ slice of local history can be found at Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, located along the River Bewl, just off the A21.
For a bright relaxing walk this winter, Scotney castle offers stunning views of the 12th-century castle, the picturesque gardens, and the rolling meadows of the Kent countryside.
Owned by the National Trust, the Scotney Estate is the perfect place to take loved ones, family and four-legged friends to enjoy the grounds and woodland overlooking the Victorian country mansion.
There is also a tearoom full of locally sourced food with hot and cold drinks available.
There are also many walks and trails to discover the exquisite beauty to be found in the 780 acres of natural parkland.
Visit, nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ kent/scotney-castle
DID YOU KNOW?
Margaret Thatcher rented a flat on the grounds of Scotney Castle and used it as a place to get away from the business of Westminster.
The three-bedroom flat was an ideal property for the Prime Minister chosen by the security service as the best place to keep her and her husband, Denis, safe whilst in Kent.
LET’S DANCE!
Assembly Hall Theatre
JANUARY 20
Get ready to dance All Night Long at the biggest 80s party show this month at the Assembly Hall Theatre.
Don’t Stop Believing as you head onto the dance floor and pump up the Jam.
Prepare for 80s pop classics such as Jitterbug, Girls just wanna have fun, Edge of Heaven, Tainted Love, Love shack, Living on a prayer, The Final Countdown, Don’t you want me baby, Relax and It’s Raining Men.
The show will kick off at 7.30pm on January 20. Tickets cost £35.25 and can be booked at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
COMEDY GOLD
Trinity Theatre
JANUARY 14
This January, Trinity Theatre will be hosting The Good Ship Comedy Club with two brilliant comedians who will surely have you belly-laughing all night long.
Award-winning musical comedian Kate Lucas is known for her original melodies and witty lyrics which saw her win critical acclaim at the Edinburgh fringe, The Comedy Store, Up the Creek, and The Stand. Kate will be joined by seasoned comedian, Marcus Birdman whose energetic and thought-provoking comedy has seen him perform around the world and headline multiple shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, The Comedy Store, The Komedia and Soho Theatre.
Trinity Theatre on January 14 at 8pm. Tickets cost £13
LICK OF PAINT
The Hare, Langton Green
JANUARY 16
After the busy rush of Christmas why not relax and let your creative side out at the next Tunbridge Wells Paint Night at The Hare pub in Langton Green.
Led by professional artist, Raymond Warren, you will learn all the tips and tricks needed to paint a ‘Glowing Jellyfish’ at a cosy intimate paint night on January 16 starting at 7.30pm.
No experience is necessary as Raymond will guide you through the whole process, a great starting place for beginners and those more experienced wanting to try something new.
Enjoy this relaxed evening out with loved ones, calming music and a selection of drinks and nibbles that are available at the bar.
DID YOU KNOW?
Jellyfish have been around for millions of years, even before dinosaurs. Scientists believe there might be as many as 300,000 species of them with one, the Immortal JellyFish (Turritopsis dohrnii) being able to live forever.
FIND YOUR DANCING SHOES
Even Flow
JANUARY 14
Fancy a night of good music and drinks? Even Flow has you covered with their first event of the New Year taking place at their café on January 14 at 7.30pm.
Join Matt, Fabs and the team for a night of funky beats, tasty food, and bubbly drinks at their fabulous music café on St John’s Road.
Expect complimentary fizz on arrival and a DJ keeping the tunes going all night long.
The café and licenced bar will be open all night for those over 18 who are ready to dance the night away.
Tickets are free for TN card members and £10 for non-members. All tickets proceed after Eventbrite fees will be donated to West Kent Mind.
Get your dancing shoes on and get your ticket at eventbrite.co.uk/e/member-night-at-even-flow-tickets- 462511583597?aff=ebdssbdests earch
THE HEART OF TOWN
The Pantiles
THROUGHOUT JANUARY
For an afternoon of shopping for clothes, crafts, and local produce there is no better than The Pantiles market as it returns once again for the New Year.
Experience the hustle and bustle of the market as you stroll through the 400-year-old history of the historic walkway located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells.
With over 70 independent stores and a variety of stalls, traders and boutiques, The Pantiles market is the perfect place to spend your weekend in and amongst the crowds.
The market has something for everyone whether you want to spend a Saturday afternoon trying tasty treats and local produce or a sunny Sunday relaxing at one of the many cafes.
