The West Kent Family Grapevine - Spring 2023

Page 1

Inside

Essential Information for Families

Upcoming Local Family Events

Easter Adventures at The National Trust

The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle

2x Fantastic Recipes from 'At Dad's Table'

30 Years of Monkey Music!

Making Miracles

And more...

Competitions

Win a Family Ticket to Godstone Farm

Win a Family Ticket to Kent Life

Win your own Lava Slime kit

Win a Make Your Own Seedball kit

Win a Copy of 'The Baby Sleep Guide'

The GuideEssential Familiesforin West Kent
Childcare • Education • Parties • Family Support • Activities • & More...
SPRING 2023
In Print & Online WEST KENT

Disclaimer: The Family Grapevine West Kent is independently owned and part of The Grapevine Media Group Ltd. No part of this

reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior permission of the publisher. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of the material in this publication and to ensure the accuracy of its content, no warranty is given as to its correctness. All adverts are submitted and approved by the advertiser and this does not imply a recommendation or necessarily the views of the publisher. You should make your own enquiries and comparisons as with any other form of advertising. The Editor and The Grapevine Media Group Ltd accept no liability for loss, damage or difficulties resulting from contacts made through the directory, from errors or omissions, from claims made by advertisers or from omissions or inaccuracies relating to an advertisement or other entry, regardless of how caused.

2 Print Publication Dates are the1st week in March, July and November Artwork deadlines for print editions are the 10th of the month prior to publication Discounts are available for series bookings in consecutive issues If you'd like to feature in our next edition email us at James@thefamilygrapevine.co.uk
Mckenzie
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@GrapevineJames @FamilyGrapevineWestKent @FamilyGrapevineWestKent Visit our Website for all of our essential listings & regularly updated local events, info & Competitions WEST KENT www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
may
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Hi..

It's Springtime!!!!! Welcome to our online hyperlinked edition of the West Kent Family Grapevine Magazine, which is packed full of local istings for families, parents and carers. Our online edition is the same as our print version but with a little more editorial content for parents and families

In this edition, we've included our pick of amazing upcoming Spring family events, including The National Trust's Easter adventures at Chartwell and Emmetts Garden, plus get ready for the return of The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle!

We got some great competitions, giving you the chance to win family tickets to Godstone Farm & Kent Life, a make your own (glow in the dark) lava slime kit, an interactive make your own seedball kit and a copy of 'The Baby Sleep Guide' by

We're also celebrating 30 years of the fantastic Monkey Music (on page 10) who are marking the special occasion with a number of party dates which are open to everyone. Check out our upcoming events on pages 28 - 29 to find out more.

We are thrilled to have two family recipes from the brilliant Adam Shaw of 'At Dad's Table' on pages 16 and 17, which are perfect to make and enjoy with your family.

Our full and comprehensive directory of listings can be found on our brand new website, just head over to www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

Our website is constantly updated, all year round with family information, local news, family events, competitions and more. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instgram and Twitter.

Please do take the time to visit our advertisers (simply by clicking on their advert) and we hope you have a wonderful Spring.

Our Summer edition is published in July. If you would like more information about featuring in it, please get in touch, we'd love to hear from you.

Our Best Wishes

3 Please tell advertisers you heard about them through the 'Grapevine' If you’re a family focused business in West Kent, we’d love to have you in our FREE online & print directory!
Index Welcome! 3 Competitions 4,5 Local Business 6 Family Health & Support 6,7 Baby & Toddler 7,11 Making Miracles Charity 8,9 30 Years of Monkey Music 10 Preschooler 11,13,15 At Dad's Table 16,17 Nurseries & Preschools 18,21 Independent Schools 20,21 Primary Schools 21 Private Tutoring 21, A-Z Activities for Children 5-16 yrs 21,22,23 Party Stuff 24,25 Holiday Schemes & Activities 25,27 Spot The Difference 25 Family Days Out & Places to Go 27 Upcoming Local Events 28,29 Easter Adventures with The National Trust 30,31 The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle 32 Welcome!!
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent WEST KENT
4 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent To enter scan the QR code or visit our website Competitions Enter Online at www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent/competitions (T&Cs Apply) www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

So Slime Lava Lamp- £9.99 Stockist – very.co.uk, Bring the wow factor to your slime collection with the So Slime Lava Lamp, this is perfect for slime fans who are looking for something new.

You can now make your own glow in the dark lava slime. All you need to do is mix the clear and colourful readymade slimes with decorations and watch the lava effects appear!

The slime glows in the dark too!

An added bonus is you can also play with the slime by simply removing it from the lamp and enjoy the colours and textures. Twist, stretch and squish! Store the slime in the lamp in between use.

COLLECT THEM ALL: 3 different colours available. Inside the box

1 Lava jar

2 Clear slimes

2 Coloured slimes

1 Bag of decorations

Instruction sheet

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To enter scan the QR code or visit our website Enter Online at www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent/competitions (T&Cs Apply)

Local Business • Family Health & Support

Local Businesses

ABCS UK, award-winning bookkeeping practice helping parents with their business accounts www.abcsuk.com, 01732 495224

Babyprints, Unique 3D casts of babies, children, families and pets, 07714 531747

Bubbly Books: FREE Books for Schools; Start your Own Business; Buy Usborne Books, 07500 707243

Felicity Harvest, Humanist UK Clebrant, for your namings & other ceremonies, 07708 933607

Independent travel agent specialising in family holidays worldwide, 01892 882750

KMJ Property, your local, independent Estate Agent Mum2Mum, nearly new sales in Kent, www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

MyChristie, Professional & Creative

Graphic Design Services, 07796 105190 RMW Services, Kitchen painting and custom painted furniture, 07761 530679

Rural Atelier, we sell a variety of ecofriendly, ethical, sustainable and fairly traded goods - www.ruralatelier.co.uk

Sarah McIntyre specialises in bespoke baby naming ceremonies. Truly memorable, 01732 833121

The Good Estate Agent Sevenoaks, friendly & professional local agents, low rates, 01732 617066

The Magical World of Children’s Books. Huge discounts. Find us on fb, 07895 243757

Tunbridge Wells Wedding Dance Company’, wedding dance lessons, 07722 844599

Vibrance Beauty, Mobile Beauty Therapist. Tonbridge & surrounding areas, 07377 994655 Family Photographers

Blanke Atelier Photography, school photos, family photos, children portraits, 07903 749019

Esther Nichols Newborn Photographer, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, 07578 596183

Lottie Topping, Wedding Photography & Family Portrait Photography, 07595 988453

Lucy McKenzie Photography, Maternity, Baby & Children, Tunbridge Wells, 07863 550676

Nic Bisseker Photography - Family Portrait and action dog photography, 07879 840171

Gifts and Keepsakes

Babyprints, Unique 3D casts of babies, children, families and pets, 07714 531747

Kiddicone, themed gifts to celebrate the first day at school, 07976 828348

Personalised toddlers, kids & adults tote bags by Cat Sparrey, www.catsparrey.com

Outdoor Activity Equipment

The Adventure Zone- try before you buy, swings, trampolines, 01732 822659

Bereaved Parents and Family Members

Financial & emotional support for families who’ve lost a young adult aged 16-25, 01323 482772

Child and Family Health

Woodland Chiropractic Clinic caring for the whole Family, Borough Green, 01732 887177

Family Bear Club, creating healthy beginnings- from pregnancy to age 2. Mother & baby wellness, 07393 995583

Hayley G Wellness Hypnotherapist, Life

Coach, EMDR, EFT & TFT Practitioner, 07818 426171

Health Visiting Services, supporting families with a new baby or a child aged under five-years-old, 0300 7900243

Tiz Kids, mindfulness classes, 3-11 yrs, tunbridge wells. private and group sessions, 07887 951968

Tracey Cambridge, Osteopath specialising in babies, 01342 323 851 Tunbridge Wells Cloth Nappy Library, Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, 07733 161744

Child and Family Support and Advice

Amanda Sokell Practical support for parents with a child struggling at school, 07711 183919

CASPA supporting Autistic young people and their families and adults, 07957 924297

Citizens Advice, providing free, independent, impartial and confidential advice, 08082 787810

Gemma Coe, highly qualified sleep specialist for infants and children up to 5 years - www.childsleepspecialist.co.uk, 07706 656880

The Money Advice Service, clear unbiassed money advice, 0300 500 5000

The Weller Way, helping families become fully functional through coaching and mentoring, 07825 411793

Children and Young People with Disabilities

Auditory Verbal UK- helping deaf babies and children listen and talk, 01869 325000

CASPA supporting Autistic young people and their families and adults, 07957 924297

IMAGO, support and empower vulnerable groups, 01892 530330

Domestic Abuse, Support and Advice

National Centre for Domestic Violence www.ncdv.org.uk, 0800 970 2070

Fostering and Adoption

Anchor Foster Care, Foster Care Services, Medway & surrounding areas, 01634 283140

Mediation Services

West Kent Mediation, free family mediation for families living in West Kent, 01732 469696

Parenting Courses and Support

Baby and You, a course for new parents and their babies, 6wks-6mths, 03000 411035

Baby and You, The Ark Children Centre, 6wks-6mths, 03000 411035

Daisy First Aid Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks, Baby & Child First Aid

Classes, 07939 507662

New Parents Groups, Paddock Wood Children’s Centre . New Borns-Crawling, 03000 411035

Tiger Stripes, classic antenatal course and new mama & newborn, 07864 596165

Registered Children’s Complementary Therapists

Osteopath for the little ones with Ian Clutton, Integrated Health, 01732 464109

Speech and Language

Hayley Quinn, Speech Language Therapist, 07780 910992

Stay Fit and Healthy

Group and Private classes, suitable for All levels, including Prenatal/Postnatal, www.yogabymargarita.com

MyPilates group mat mixed abilities classes, Sundridge & Brasted, 07375 200495

Tonality Dance/Aerobic Fitness Classes - Frant Hall, Frant Near Tunbridge Wells, 07721 747201

Antenatal Services

Hey Baby 4D is a boutique private ultrasound clinic based in Tunbridge Wells, 01892 489166

KW Mother Nurture, Hypnobirthing & Antenatal Education, Group & 1-to-1 courses, 07817 512865

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Family Health & Support • Baby & Toddler

Providing practical and emotional support for new mothers and their families, 07974 001362

Strong Like Mama - Pregnancy

Relaxation classes, Hypnobirthing & Breastfeeding, www.stronglikemama. co.uk

Tiger Stripes, birth & baby, classic antenatal course, hypnobirthing & tigress empowered birth, pregnancy relaxation, 07864 596165

Antenatal and Postnatal

Exercise

Group and Private classes, suitable for All levels, including Prenatal/Postnatal, www.yogabymargarita.com

Better Body Group, a safe environment for mums to exercise comfortably and confidently post birth, 01732 451979

Birth Holistic, Hypnobirth. Comprehensive mindbody antenatal training in Tunbridge Wells, 07702 751143

KW Mother Nurture, Pregnancy

Relaxation weekly classes, Snodland, 07817 512865

Pregnancy Yoga & Postnatal Yoga with Baby Massage in Tunbridge Wells, 07702 751143

Pregnancy YOGA, Paddock Wood

Children’s Centre, TW, Saturdays at 10.30am, 07885 754556

Sandrines Pilates, Mum and baby pilates, 01892 618493

Hypnobirthing

Good Birth Practice, practical & fun hypnobirthing classes, courses & workshops, 07905 986810

Strong Like Mama, hypnobirthing and antenatal - for a calm, confident birth!, www.stronglikemama.co.uk

Tiger Stripes, pure hypnobirthing & positive birth focused antenatal education, 07864 596165

Midwives and Doulas

Emma Mills, private midwife prenatal & postnatal care. One-off appointments/ packages of care, 07985 526595

Flourish Birth & Baby, Carole Youdan, Birth & Postnatal Doula, 07786 610328

Strong Like Mama - postnatal doula support in the early weeks with your baby, www.stronglikemama.co.uk

Breastfeeding, Weaning Help and Support

BoobieMilk Ltd, Maternity and Nursing

Bra fittings and sales, 07951 600777

NCT Baby Café, Manna Café, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 522323

NCT Breastfeeding Helpline, 0300 330 0700

South Tonbridge Children’s Centre, Tonbridge, 03000 418008

Spring House Children’s Centre, Sevenoaks, 03000 411035

Strong Like Mama - prenatal breastfeeding preparation and postnatal support, www.stronglikemama.co.uk

Harmony Children’s Centre, Rusthall, 03000 420890

Little Forest Children Centre, Tunbridge Wells, 03000 420892

Little Foxes Children’s Centre, Waveney Road, North Tonbridge, 03000 418008

Paddock Wood Children’s Centre, open week days 9am-12pm. Activities for 0-5 yrs, 03000 411035

South Tonbridge Children’s Centre, Tonbridge Youth Hub, 03000 418008

Southborough Children’s Centre, 03000 420891

Spring House Children’s Centre, Sevenoaks, 03000 421137

The Ark Childrens Centre, Broadwater Lane, 03000 414600

West Kingsdown Children’s Centre, 01474 854624

Nannies and Au Pairs

County Nannies, meeting the needs of parents and childcarers, 01795 520060

East Green Childcare Services, taking care of all your childcare needs, 01732 838417

Elizabeth Henry Nannies: Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Nursery Staff, babysitting, 01732 851313

Katie Nanny, professional Nanny Ad Hoc, Daytime, Evening, Travel, Temporary, Emergency, 07852 345124

Tinies Childcare, 0203 6918828

Baby and Toddler Other Groups

At home fun Mama & Baby/child workouts, suitable for all ages incl, prenatal, 07707 346552

Baby Yoga with Margarita, postnatal yoga for mums, gentle baby yoga and massage for babies under 10 months, www.yogabymargarita.com

Baby Sensory, baby development classes from birth to 13 months in Frant, TW, 07921 998654

Baby Stay and Play, The Ark Childrens Centre, Broadwater Lane, 03000 414600

CYCLEme TOTS, Mid-Kent Classes, 2-7 years, 07739 389281

Dad & Me 0-5yrs Tunbridge Wells Baptist Church 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 01892 541118

Daddy and Me 0-5yrs, Pantiles Baptist Ch, Frant Rd, Tunbridge Wells 2nd Sat am, 01892 521093

LullaBaby, developmental, multi-sensory & exploratory sessions for babies aged 0-24 months, 07546 552657

Nature Makers is a nature based arts and crafts class for children aged 0-6, 07415 780943

Children’s and Family Centres

Edenbridge Children’s Centre, 03000 420995

SEVENOAKS, Baby and Parent Cinema Club, Stag Community Arts Centre, Tues10.30am, 01732 450175

Tiger Stripes, new mama & newborn 0-3mths; cubs baby massage 6wks5mths; cubs adventurers sensory yoga 4mths - , 07864 596165

Toddler Sense, toddler adventure classes from 13 months to 4 years in Frant, TW, 07921 998654

Toddlers and Toys, playgroup and toy hire, Pembury, www.toddlersandtoys.com

Trinity Theatre, mums and babies film club, 01892 500673

Father’s Groups

Dad & Me 0-5yrs Tunbridge Wells Baptist Church 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 01892 541118

Pandas Playgroup Daddy and Me, 2nd Saturday mornings 0-11yrs, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 521903

Pops and Tots for Male Carers, 1st Sat monthly, New Life Ch, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 691509

Mother’s Groups

Singing Mamas, St Stephen’s Church Community Centre, Tonbridge, Mondays 10.30-12, www.lauralamn.com/singingmamas

Baby and Toddler

Additional Needs Groups

The Children’s Trust School Taddies Playgroup for children with complex needs, 01737 365810

Baby and Toddler Yoga

Baby Yoga with Margarita, postnatal yoga for mums, gentle baby yoga and massage for babies under 10 months, 07305 622446

Baby Bumpkin: Age 6 weeks-2 yrs, Baby Massage and Yoga, 07511 048803

Banana Studio Yoga, Toddlertastic Yoga Club. Pre School & Youth Yoga Courses, 07834 518619

Creating healthy beginnings- from pregnancy to age 2. Mother & baby wellness, 07393 995583

Fitness and Form, mother and baby pilates class, www.fitnessandform.co.uk, 07913 994432

Mummy & Me Pilates Classes every Wednesday at 11am at Pembury Pavilion, , 07876 787869

Postnatal Yoga for Mum & Baby Massage, Yoga and songs for babes!, 07702 751143

Tatty Bumpkin, Sevenoaks, fun yoga-inspired activity, 6wks-7yrs, 07870 598606

Yoga for children 4+ Available for group sessions in schools or youth clubs, 07885 754556

Zen Baby Massage, Baby Massage & Yoga, Tunbridge Wells, www.zenbabymassageyoga.com, 07539 501402

Baby and Toddler Massage

Baby and Toddler Explorers, for 0-2 years, for your child’s sensory development, 07947 380135

Baby Massage, for babies 6-16 weeks, Sevenoaks, 07788 971627

Baby Yoga and massage classes and courses in Tunbridge Wells, www.yogabymargarita.com

Blissful Bébé Massage group and private baby massage courses, 07732 808623 KW Mother Nurture, Baby Massage, Snodland, 0-12months, 07817 512865

Tiger Stripes, cubs baby massage 6 wks5 mths, 07864 596165

Zen Baby Massage, Baby Massage & Yoga, Tunbridge Wells, www.zenbabymassageyoga.com, 07539 501402

Baby and Toddler Music and Dance

Babee Ballet, ages 2.5-5yrs. Buzzie Bee Ballet fun! Various locations and times, 07889 647338

Babyballet Song and Dance Academy, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, 07809 148348

Cascade Dance: Creative Dance for 3&4 years with Cascade in Tunbridge Wells, 07540 724027

Dance, craft, story time and Music classes for children aged 18 months-6 years

Gymboree Play and Music, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, 0-5 yrs, 07827 910978 Gymboree Play and Music, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, 0-5 yrs, 07308 160024

Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, Tunbridge Wells, 07817 290552

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Making Miracles Charity

navigating the pathway through the journey that is grief.

Memorial Bear, eedback from families has shown us that there is a genuine need for an affordable and beautiful teddy bear to keep their precious memories of their baby in.

Making Miracles

Making Miracles is the birth trauma and baby bereavement care charity offering families the support, services and tools they need to help find their “new normal” following trauma and grief.

At Making Miracles, we understand that no grief is ever the same and this is reflected in the variety of services that are customized to suit individual needs. Listening is at the heart of what we do. We listen to the families who come to us and we adapt our services based on their needs, recognizing that these needs also evolve over time. Our services and care pathway, allow families to access what they need, when they need it most. Making Miracles is open to the whole family from parents to grandparents and siblings; and is the only UK charity to offer this. We understand the ripple effect that loss has across families, the impact it has on relationships and how culture can affect how this shows up.

Our services are at the core of what we do. Our services include specialist professional counselling for singles, couples, children, and grandparents.

Our support groups which families can access following counselling or as a stand-alone service.

Support following loss which enables any parent feeling the anxiety around pregnancy following loss to get 1-1 support via a counsellor.

Our beautiful Baby Memorial Garden which means there is somewhere to visit and remember. It is very much a community garden for the whole family and events are held throughout the year.

Podcast, Baby Loss, Grief & Love. Making Miracles is the first Baby Loss charity in England to release a Podcast and we are very proud to do this. It is a fantastic platform for us to raise awareness, help people access self help or therapy who may live out of the area and discuss relevant emotions, conditions, concerns and anxieties whilst

Children’s Book ‘The Baby’ is a magical rhyming book we created with the talented children’s author Joseph Hopkins specifically after hearing our families express the struggle they had to inform and explain the loss of a sibling.

Volunteer Opportunities

We strive to be a volunteer led organization and have opportunities for community involvement which include: Bucket collection, community stall, gardening at our Baby Memorial Garden and working in our NEW store ‘Handmade with Love”.

www.makingmiracles.org.uk

Please contact Jodie on jodie@makingmiracles.or.uk

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9 Please tell advertisers you heard about them through the 'Grapevine' Making Miracles Charity www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

Celebrating 30 Years of Monkey Music!

Monkey Music is celebrating its 30th Birthday this year!

Started back in 1993, our pre-school music classes have been a firm favourite with local families in this part of Kent, since 2003!

Alison Norman brought the first Monkey Music classes to the Camden Community Centre in Tunbridge Wells 20 years ago and the award-winning, age-specific classes have been a rite of passage for hundreds of local families ever since. Now, with a small team of incredibly talented Monkey Music teachers, Hannah, Jules and Mary, Alison and her team want to celebrate this milestone in style this year.

Nationally, there’s a Prize Draw between end February and end of July for families who attend classes, plus there will be local parties on 15th April, 20th May and 24th June!

Fundraising for Monkey’s National Charity Partner Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy, is close to Alison’s heart and she is the Charity Ambassador for Monkey Music.

All proceeds from the fundraising parties will be going to Nordoff Robbins, and, nationally, we hope to raise £30,000 to support music therapists across the UK.

Later in the year, a team of 30 runners will be entered to the Royal Parks Half Marathon, if you’d like to join the team, please just get in touch with Alison for further details.

Find out more about Monkey Music classes in Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks at www.monkeymusic.co.uk

email tunbridgewells.sevenoaks@monkeymusic.co.uk or call 01892 671997

tunbridgewells.sevenoaks@monkeymusic.co.uk 10

Baby & Toddler • Preschooler Groups

Cascade Adult Dance Classes & Workshops

EASTER WORKSHOP

CASCADE DANCE with

WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL 9.00 - 3.00 pm TUNBRIDGE WELLS Street, Acro,

AGES

INFANTS - PRIMARY AGE 4 - 7

JUNIORS - PRIMARY AGE 8 - 11

SENIORS - SECONDARY AGE 11 - 16

www.cascadedance.co.uk

We have a range of classes for all ages and abilities in Tunbridge Wells!

Open Level Contemporary for the more experienced dancer on Mondays.

Beginner Contemporary for true beginners and improvers on Thursdays.

Street Dance for adults on Thursdays.

And new to 2023 – we are launching our new Contemporary Dance classes for 50+ which start in April!!

COST Early Bird Price (before 19th March) £30.00 for the day

FIND OUR SUMMER DANCE WORKSHOPS & MORE ONLINE

ADULT DANCE CLASSES

SPRING / SUMMER TIMETABLE 2023

MONDAYS

8.15 - 9.25PM - OPEN LEVEL CONTEMPORARY

Monday 20th February - Monday 20th March (4 wks)

Monday 17th April - Monday 22nd May (4 wks)

@TWBG Sports Centre

THURSDAYS

8.10 - 9.10 - BEGINNER CONTEMPORARY

Thursday 20th April - 18th may (5 wks)

Thursday 8th June - 6th July (5 wks)

7.15 - 8.00 - BEGINNER STREET DANCE

8.00 - 9.00 - OPEN LEVEL STREET

Thursday 20th April - 18th May (5 wks)

@The Camden Centre

Its really great to connect through dance. We have many adults that come to us at different stages of their dancing journeys; some have danced when they were young, exprofessionals and some true beginners – but the outcome is the same!

We all come to class to move our bodies, express ourselves and share creativity with others. Our classes are open to all abilities and ages. We believe that dance, regardless of mobility, age or health, should be accessible to all.

Adult Classes in Spring:

Open Level Contemporary runs on Mondays www. cascadedance.co.uk/adult-contemporary-classes www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILCWFcwoYvs&t=4s

Beginner Contemporary runs on Thursdays @Camden Centre

www.cascadedance.co.uk/beginner-contemporary Adult Street Dance

Thursday evenings at The Camden Centre. www.cascadedance.co.uk/street-dance

NEW Contemporary Dance 50+

Thursdays 10.45 – 12.00pm Starts 6th April for 4 weeks www.cascadedance.co.uk/contemporary-5zero

Our new classes for adults aged 50 and over. An opportunity to learn contemporary dance techniques and explore creative free movement in a friendly and safe environment.

www.bookwhen.com/cascadedance www.cascadedance.co.uk

Monkey Music - Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Pembury, Hildenborough, 01892 671997

Mummy and Me Ballet with Just Dance, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 864517

Musical Bumps Music, Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks classes with traditional songs, lullabies and musical games, 07736 244142

Tatty Bumpkin, Yoga and Music 2-7yrs, 07511 048803

Baby and Toddler Signing and Communication

Sing and Sign Baby Signing the fun way, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, rebeccaclowsingandsign@gmail.com

Baby and Toddler

Swimming

Aquatots, Strood, Sevenoaks, Sidcup & Orpington. 10 weeks - 5yrs, www.aquatots.com, 0208 688 6488

Classes are open to all aged 50 + regardless of dance experience, mobility, or health.

Adult Dance Workshops

Saturday 15th April, 10.30 – 1.30pm – Commercial Heels & Contemporary Dance

Open to all abilities, beginners and improvers welcome –A pair of heels essential!

www.cascadedance.co.uk/dance-cpd-workshops

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Contemporary, Jazz & Aerial Silks
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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Drama is good for you!

As we continue to surface from the uncertainty of the last two years and learn more about the effects of lockdowns and restrictions on children, one thing is clear: drama can aid a child’s mental health, promote a quicker return to normality and enhance important areas of their development.

The charity Young Minds states that we should take a more holistic view of mental health and well-being in schools. Performing arts offer inspiring and creative ways for young people to enhance their well-being through participating in learning activities that promote strong feelings of competency friendship and control.

We were proud that in March 2020 the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy was able to quickly move online, offering our students a sense of routine and, of course, taking some of the load from home-schooling parents, but are delighted to have returned to studios for face-to-face lessons which are at the heart of what we do.

Attending a familiar weekly drama class, such as the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, provides a valuable routine and gives children the opportunity to build relationships outside the family unit. This not only enhances a child’s confidence but broadens their perspective and their friendship groups and promotes a feeling of stability and belonging.

Within the supportive class environment, and through a structured curriculum, children are encouraged to channel their feelings and use dramatic expression (sound, gestures, movement) as an outlet for their emotions in a way that may not be possible at home. We introduce role-play activities in which children discuss, examine and dramatically recreate their feelings, enabling them to feel ‘heard’, reducing their stress and anxiety.

Another tangible impact of the pandemic is a loss of physical fitness in some children. Our curriculum involves many physical activities which stimulate endurance and coordination and, of course, allow our children to make noise, move and let off steam within a nurturing environment. And, most importantly, have FUN!

We have always known that enrolling in the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy enhances confidence and self-esteem but now, more than ever, the broader benefits of studying drama are clear.

Specific post-pandemic benefits of drama classes:

• Routine – sense of safety, security, predictability

• A safe outlet for feelings and frustrations – letting off steam

• Building relationships outside of the family unit

• Accepting direction – aiding resilience in all areas of life

• Building confidence, speaking up, making eye contact

• Learning breathing techniques which can be used to avoid panic and anxiety

• Improved fitness

For more information about Helen O'Grady Drama Academy visit www.helenogrady.co.uk or email bromley@helenogrady.co.uk

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• Preschooler
Baby & Toddler
Groups

Baby & Toddler • Preschooler Groups

Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, 18mths-7yrs, 0208 432 0982

Telephone:

(07834) 737211

SWIM SCHOOL

Parent & baby/toddler swimming classes, Swimming lessons for children from 4 years +

Pre School Gymnastics, 6mths-3yrs with parents or 3-4yrs, 01892 540744

Preschool Gymnastics and Trampoline, U5yrs, Angel Leisure Centre, 01732 359966

Ready Steady Sport - Multi sport for all children 3yrs upwards, 07764 187401

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Toddlers Gym, 01732 470700

Small groups, Instructor in the water with non-swimmers

1-2-1 swimming lessons, small groups, Instructor in the water with non-swimmers

Small groups, 1-2-1 lessons, Instructor in the water with non-swimmers

Tiggers Trampolining Time, Preschool, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

CATERHAM – GODSTONE – OXTED

WESTERHAM - CATERHAMGODSTONE - OXTED

Little Fishes, parent and baby/toddler/ children 4ys+, Oxted and Westerham, 07834 737211

Puddle Ducks, Swimming classes from 0-4 yrs - Sevenoaks, Hildenborough & Tunbridge Wells, 01892 617246

SwimKidz NW Kent & Sevenoaks, for Pregnancy, Babies, Toddlers and Children, 07809 227637

Water Babies East Sussex & Tunbridge Wells. Lessons from birth to 5 years, 01424 892568

Preschooler’s Art and Messy Play

Messy Monsters - Messy play company, weekend Sessions, suitable for 6m - 5yrs, 07538 952689

Preschooler’s Dance and Drama

Babyballet Song and Dance Academy, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, 07809 148348

Cascade Dance: Creative Dance for 3&4 years with Cascade in Tunbridge Wells, 07540 724027

Catherine Bellinger School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells 2yrs+, 01892 542549

Dynamic Dance, for all ages from toddlers, various venues, based in Tonbridge, 01732 357518

Evolution Dance Academy, ballet, street, musical theatre, several venues, 2yrs+, 07709 348723

Firefly Dance School, Ballet, Modern, Tap, National, Irish Boys/Girls, all ages, 07734 816989

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, Kindy Drama, preschool classes, 2½-5 yrs, 07587 006176

Inception Dance, fun, lively ballet and dance classes, Hartfield, 2yrs+, 07920 181454

Jigsaw Performing Arts, 3-18 years, Sevenoaks, 020 8447 4530

KA Dance Academy, Ballet, Tap and Stage, 3yrs+, Crockham Hill Village Hall, 07810 443575

Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, Tunbridge Wells, 07817 290552 Make Believe Sevenoaks: Sing, Act, Dance Ages 3-18, 0208 123 7927

Mini Motion, creative parent/toddler classes, Crowborough, T’ Wells, Langton Grn, 07734 863791

Razzamataz FREE TASTER SESSIONS in Singing Dance & Drama for ages 2-18, 07401 801318

Showtime Performing Arts 3.5yrs+ Malling School Oxted School Weekends Only, 07749 650222

Southborough School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells 3yrs+, 01892 531632

Theatre Train Mini’s Dance Act Sing 4-5yrs, 07710 478246

Preschooler’s Gym and Physical Play

Charlton Football Coaching 3-5yrs, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

Toddler Gym, under 5yrs Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

Toddler Sports, U5yrs, Edenbridge Leisure Centre, 01732 865665

Toddler Trampolining under 5yrs

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

Preschooler’s Educational and Multilingual Sessions

Caroline Cunnington-King, French tutor, Tonbridge, 07884 255749

Kidslingo Preschool French and Spanish, from 18 months, 07726 590289

Preschooler’s Multisensory Sessions

Baby Massage, Rhyme and Music, Sevenoaks, 4 -18 months, 07788 971627

Preschooler’s Music and Movement

Family Music Fun 3mths-5yrs Angel Centre, Tonbridge, Friday am’s, 01732 359966

Hartbeeps, various venues, 07795 103197

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The physical benefits of swimming for all children

Swimming very famously exercises all parts of the body. Our friends at Puddle Ducks explain below how swimming helps your little one’s body.

Heart and lungs

Swimming works your child’s heart and lungs, training the body to use oxygen more efficiently, which is generally reflected in declines in the resting hearting heart and breathing rate. When they are swimming, the working muscles of their arms, legs, and core are demanding additional oxygen, and this makes their heart pump faster. As a result of regular swimming exercise, their heart will become stronger and able to pump more blood with each contraction. Your child’s lungs adapt by learning to absorb more oxygen, and the muscles in their diaphragm and ribs that control their breathing become stronger too.

Brain

Swimming feels amazing to the body and mind, instantly lifting our mood. Little swimmers benefit from new relationships that are formed by being a member of a pool, swim class, or swim team. Learning to respond to key words can make your child sharper mentally,

increase levels of awareness and understanding, and improve communication between you and them. Swimming facilitates development of crucial higher brain functions, core muscles and co-ordination, often seeing earlier physical and mental development that non-swimming peers.

Muscles

It would be quicker to list the muscles your little one won’t work by swimming! The constant pulling and pushing in water builds great muscle endurance and work capacity in the following muscles in particular: shoulders, back, abdominals, lats, legs, and triceps!

14 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Baby & Toddler • Preschooler Groups

Baby & Toddler • Preschooler Groups

Humpty Dumpty Club Music and Movement, 07860 801173

Little Notes Music Classes by top notch musicians, 01892 300103

Monkey Music - Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Pembury, Hildenborough, 01892 671997

Music Bugs, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, 07738 878821

Musical Bumps Music Classes with traditional songs and musical games, 07784 737183

Pipsqueaks Music, Otford, 07951 587806

Preschooler’s Swimming

Alison Marks Swim School, Hildenborough, 3yrs+, 01732 365440

Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, 3 years+, 01732 4558004

Aquatots, Strood, Sevenoaks, Sidcup & Orpington. 10 weeks - 5yrs, www.aquatots.com, 0208 688 6488

Puddle Ducks, Swimming classes from 0-4 yrs - Sevenoaks, Hildenborough & Tunbridge Wells, 01892 617246

Soft Play Centres

Buzy Bee’s, Soft Play Area and Café and outside toys, Ash, 0 to 12 years, 01474 874118

Edenbridge Leisure Centre 0-4yrs, 01732 865665

Little St Sevenoaks, Children’s Role Play Centre, 01732 668347

Minor Mania, soft play, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 752042

Aquatots Naturally – A Gift for Life

Aquatots are at the forefront of the baby swimming industry, leading the way, in delivering fun and progressive Baby, Toddler and Child Swimming classes in and around Kent, for over 25 years.

The Aquatots programme is the most advanced and enjoyable water safety and swim programme available. Taught across 29 progressive levels, all designed to follow a child’s natural physical and psychological development, from baby (10 weeks old) to toddler to child.

Lifesaving skills and great results are obtained in just a few lessons. For instance, learning to breath hold, entering the water and turning back to the poolside and kicking up from the bottom of a pool, are just a few of the skills taught in early baby levels. From there, our children will learn to swim independently without the use of any buoyancy aids, this is typically achieved by age 3 to 3.5 years old.

It doesn’t stop there, once this has been achieved the Aquatots child programme moves on to include Snorkelling, underwater scooters and vital life rescue skills, as well as enhanced stroke work.

All the above is taught by our passionate, experienced and dedicated teachers who work hard to create fun and welcoming atmospheres, that help children to learn and thrive in. Not only has the Aquatots programme been carefully enhanced and adapted over the 25 years, to be the best Baby, Toddler and Child swimming program available, but we also take care to ensure that our babies and children are swimming in suitable and warm environments.

If you would like to find out more information about classes in and around Kent, please contact: info@aquatots.com, call us on: 0208 688 6488 or visit: www.aquatots.com

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Peanut Butter Chicken Curry

My kids’ favourite dish, they’ll love the fact peanut butter is in this. Get them involved, especially when it comes to mixing the peanut butter and coconut milk into the dish and watching it change colour.

Serves 4

Prep time 10 mins, cooking time 20 mins

Ingredients

• 3-4 chicken breasts, thickly sliced

• 300g/10oz Basmati rice (brown is best)

• 1 red onion, diced

• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and grated

• 1 thumb of ginger, peeled and grated

• 1 teaspoon of cumin

• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander

• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (older kids only)

• 1 x 400g/14oz can of chopped tomatoes

• 1 x 400g c/14oz can of coconut milk

• 2 tablespoons of peanut butter (preferably chunky)

• Approx 180g/6.5 oz fresh spinach, rinsed or 6-8 frozen cubes

• Vegetable oil

• Salt

Method

1. Season the chicken then cook in a teaspoon of vegetable oil for 4-5 minutes until browned, turning frequently. Remove from the pan.

2. Cook the rice per packet instructions.

3. Cook the onion in a teaspoon of vegetable oil and pinch of salt for 2-3 minutes then add the garlic, ginger and spices. Cook for a further minute.

4. Add the tomatoes, coconut milk and peanut butter to the pan and mix well.

5. Bring to the boil, add the chicken back in (along with the frozen spinach if using) then simmer for 10-12 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

6. If using, add the fresh spinach then cook for a further 2 minutes then serve alongside the basmati rice.

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at_dads_table At Dad's Table
At Dad's Table
www.atdadstable.com
16
Images © Emily Butters Photography

Sausage, Butter Bean and Kale Hotpot

Who doesn’t love a sausage? This dish is a super easy one pot that also features lots of lovely nutrients. Serve over rice or pasta for more carbs and swap the sausages for some chorizo if you prefer.

Serves 4

Prep time: 10 minutes, Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 8-12 good-quality sausages

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 courgettes/zucchini, finely diced

• 2 carrots, finely diced

• 1 tablespoon plain/all-purpose white flour (or any alternative)

• 600ml/20fl oz/2 1/2 cups vegetable stock

• 2 large handfuls of kale, tough stalks removed, roughly chopped

• 2 x 400g/14oz can of butter/lima beans, drained

• Cheese, for grating

Method

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for around 5–6 minutes, turning once. Remove then pour out any excess fat from the pan.

2. Heat another tablespoon of oil in the pan. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add the thyme, rosemary and oregano and mix well. Add the courgettes/zucchini and carrots and cook for 3–4 minutes.

3. Whisk the flour into the stock, then pour into the pan. Add the sausages back in, cover the pan and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the kale and butter/lima beans and cook for a further 3–4 minutes before serving with some grated cheese. Goes great with some crusty bread.

Adam Shaw is a Leiths trained chef, Dad of 3 young boys and founder of At Dad's Table

He specialises in fun, positive family food and his debut cookbook, How to Grow Your Family was released in 2022. How to Grow Your Family is the award-winning debut cookbook from Tunbridge Wells based Family Chef and Founder of At Dad’s Table, Adam Shaw.

Featuring over 120 recipes taking you from pregnancy through to family meals, and focussing more on what you can have, less on what you can’t, the book is packed full of exciting and fun recipes designed to promote food confidence.

Whether you’re expecting, a new parent or looking to jazz up your family mealtimes, How to Grow Your Family features plant, meat and fish-based dishes the majority of which are ready in under 30 minutes.

Endorsed by Giovanna Fletcher, the winner of the Health and Wellness Best Healthy Cookbook 2022 and named in the BBC Good Food’s top 8 family cookbooks, How to Grow Your Family is available online and in all good bookshops.

Table
At Dad's
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Images © Emily Butters Photography

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Daycare Nurseries

7 Acorns Day Nursery, Sevenoaks. 0-5 years. Enquire now www.7acorns.co.uk, 07803 697404

BRENCHLEY, Kinderversity Pre-school, wrap around care, holiday clubs, 0-11 years, 01892 458231

DUNTON GREEN, Broughton Cottage Day Nursery, TN13, 3 months to 5 years, 01732 462339

Nurseries • Preschools

EDENBRIDGE, Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery, 3 months - 5 years, 01732 605341

HILDENBOROUGH, Stables Daycare, TN11, 3 months to 5 years, 01732 833266

Ofsted Registered Childminder ‘Trish’s Tiddlers’ Please call for availability, , 07940 029793

PADDOCK WOOD, Barnies Day Nursery, Hop Farm, 3 months to 5 years, 01622 872788

PENSHURST, Well Place Day Nursery and Preschool, 3 mths-5 yrs, 01892 870118

SEVENOAKS Day Nursery, Otford Road, TN14, 01732 460384

SEVENOAKS, Acorns Day Nursery, TN13, 6 months to 5 years, 01732 459162

SEVENOAKS, Asquith Nursery and Preschool, TN13, 0330 057 6242

SEVENOAKS, Busy Bees Children’s Day Nursery, TN13, 6wks-5yrs, 01732 450466

SEVENOAKS, Oakley Day Nursery, TN13, 3 months -5 years, 01732 459651

SEVENOAKS, Steps to School Day Nursery, TN15, 3 months - 4 years, 01732 780431

SEVENOAKS, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN13, 01732 742252

SOUTHBOROUGH, Asquith Woodlands Day Nursery, TN4, 0330 057 9741

TONBRIDGE, Asquith Nursery and Preschool, Pembury Road, TN9, 0370 218 8553

TONBRIDGE, Asquith Nursery, West Kent College, Brook Street, TN9, 0330 057 3654

TONBRIDGE, Barnies Day Nursery, Hadlow, TN11, 3 months to 5 years, 01732 850033

TONBRIDGE, Hilden Oaks Nursery, TN10, 3mths+, 01732 353941

TONBRIDGE, Oaklands Day Nursery, TN9, 4mths-5yrs, 01732 353486

TONBRIDGE, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN9, 01732 500565

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Asquith Day Nursery and Preschool, TN4, 0333 920 2726

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Forest Park Nursery and Pre-School, TN2, 0-5yrs, 01892 512313

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Juniors Day Nursery, 07940 728905

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Cottage, Breakfast / Tea available, 2-4 yrs, two sites, 07702 180487

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Rascals Nursery, TN1, 6 months-5 years, 01892 313245

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Nuffy Bear Day Nursery, Knights Park, TN2, 01892 882795

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Rainbow Creche and Nursery, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, TN4, 01892 517215

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Georges’ Childrens Project Nursery, TN4, babies-5yrs, 01892 543982

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN4, 01892 531128

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Green Cave Day Nursery, TN1, 6mth-5yrs, 01892 800033

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Tunbridge Wells Nursery and Montessori PreSchool, 3mth-5yrs, 01892 540068

Montessori Nurseries

SEVENOAKS, Hollybush Montessori Nursery, TN14, 07984 133318

SEVENOAKS, Moniques Montessori Day Nursery, 01732 452931

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, New World Montessori, Linden Park Cricket Club, Fir Tree Road, 07787 155247

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Tunbridge Wells Nursery and Montessori PreSchool, 3mth-5yrs, 01892 540068

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Primary Schools • Independent Schools

Take your first steps in early learning with The Plus Programme at Hilden Grange Preparatory School and Nursery.

A child’s early experiences play a vital part in shaping the person they will become. Their first two or three years are fast paced, with a mixture of activities and classes on offer. Before you know it, you’re thinking about a nursery. Whether or not you have chosen one, Plus provides an engaging and holistic programme for parent and child: in partnership with Hilden Grange Preparatory School and Nursery and other Alpha Plus Schools.

In the wake of the pandemic, early-years experts from the Alpha Plus Group noticed, first-hand, the effects of social isolation on the children in their nurseries. That’s why we opened our doors to families with pre-nursery children (from six months to three years old) to provide a space for parents and carers to meet and learn about child development within an enriching learning environment. Situated within beautiful woodland, Hilden Grange provides a perfect place to witness your little one learn, play and grow amidst the laughter and learning of this vibrant school.

Plus is carefully designed to fully inform parents about their rapidly developing child’s learning. The teachers have an in-depth understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum and provide professional guidance for parents seeking to enhance these formative years for their children. Our team are there to answer any of your questions and we can even help you find a nursery. At the learn-and-play sessions, the little ones start to make friends who they have invited to their birthday parties. It is lovely seeing some of them looking for one another during the face-to-face sessions. When they go to nursery, their teachers have commented on the confidence Plus children have because they are familiar with the learning environment of a nursery classroom. The classroom and activities are carefully set up to encourage high-quality learning through play. The teachers extend the children’s learning and support parents and carers to take part in it.

The programme also provides a place to meet other parents and/or cares, and to ask early-years teachers anything about their child’s development or next steps. Our offer includes regular talks for parents from experts like speech and language therapists, sleep therapists, nutritionists and much more.

Nannies, grandparents, and other caregivers also accompany children at Plus. The programme is designed for the child’s whole support network to gain further skills and knowledge through our guided learn-and-play sessions, targeted activities, and bespoke advice.

Some recent testimonials:

Parent: “It’s the highlight of my week: I can take an hour out of my own busy schedule and spend some time with my child. I find it very therapeutic.”

Nanny: “The Plus sessions have been great for supporting children’s social skills before they start nursery. The activities are always so creative and sensory – perfect for their age! A is always so excited to come to nursery and see her friends and teachers.”

The Plus programme includes:

Twice weekly 60-minute face-to-face learn-and-Play sessions for parent/carer and child to attend together.

Twice weekly virtual learn-and-Play sessions

Bespoke activities to try at home, designed by our early-years-teachers

Fortnightly talks and Q&A sessions from specialist guest speakers as part of an exclusive parenting programme

Access to advice from experienced early years teachers

The learn-and-play sessions take place at Hilden Grange Preparatory School (Tonbridge) Other sessions run in several locations in London (Hampstead, Notting Hill, Chiswick, and Putney) @the_plus_programme | Linktree Email plus@alphaplusgroup.co.uk for more information or to speak to a member of the team.

Follow @The_Plus_Programme on Instagram and Facebook

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Primary Schools • Independent Schools

Sessional Preschools and Nurseries

BIDBOROUGH, Village Nursery School, Village Hall, TN3, 2 to 5 years, 07517 145731

CHIDDINGSTONE, Chiddingstone Nursery School, TN8, 2 to 4 years, 01892 871315

EDENBRIDGE Nursery School, Edenbridge Primary School, 3 to 4 yrs, 01732 863787

EDENBRIDGE, Church House Preschool, Rickards Hall, 07748 673798

EDENBRIDGE, Marsh Green Preschool, St John’s Church, 01732 864553

EDENBRIDGE, St Paulinus PreSchool, 2-5 years, 07796 795811

FORDCOMBE, Fordcombe PreSchool, Village Hall, 07895 472610

Groombridge, Groombridge PreSchool, 01892 861113

HADLOW Community Pre School, 2 to 5 years, 01732 853225

HARTFIELD, Hartfield Playschool, am and pm sessions, 2 -5 years, 01892 770830

HILDENBOROUGH, Stocks Green Preschool, TN11, 2½ to 5years, 01732 834115

HILDENBOROUGH, The Oaks Nursery, Riding Lane, TN11, 01732 834401

LANGTON GREEN, Little Birches Nursery and Pre School, day care from 7.30am until 5.30pm, 01892 862943

Little Fosse Nursery, Fosse Bank School 2-3yrs, 01732 834212

PADDOCK WOOD, Scalliwags PreSchool, 01892 835980

PEMBURY School House Nursery, TN2, 2-5 years, 01892 825580

PENSHURST, Penshurst Pre-School, Village Hall, 2 -5 years, 01892 870250

RIVERHEAD, St. Mary’s PreSchool Group, Village Hall, 07502 428413

SEAL, Top Banana PreSchool, 2-4 years, 07958 528808

SEVENOAKS, Bradbourne Park PreSchool, grds of Sevenoaks Primary, 2¾ to 5 years, 01732 779149

SEVENOAKS, Chevening School Nursery, TN13, 2½-5 years, 01732 452342

SEVENOAKS, Halstead Nursery, Otford Lane, TN14, 2-5 years, 07950 681846

SEVENOAKS, Pipkins Nursery School Chevening, TN14, 2-5 years, 07480 832356

SEVENOAKS, Platt School Nursery, TN15, 2-5 years, 01732 886600

SEVENOAKS, Plaxtol Nursery School, TN15, 2½-5yrs, 01732 811395

SEVENOAKS, Radnor House Nursery, 2.5 years +, 01959 563720

SEVENOAKS, Spring Board PreSchool, TN13, 2 years 3 mths-4 years, 01732 452039

SEVENOAKS, St Lawrence PreSchool, TN15, 01732 763354

SEVENOAKS, Steps to School Day Nursery, TN15, 2 - 4 years, 01732 780431

SEVENOAKS, The Children’s Workshop, TN13, 2-5 years, 01732 741391

SEVENOAKS, Weald PreSchool, Church Road, 01732 450272

SOUTHBOROUGH, Holden Park Preschool, 2 to 5 years, 01892 520626

SOUTHBOROUGH, Southborough Preschool, Community Centre, Crundwell Rd, 2-5 years, 01892 538666

SPELDHURST, Speldhurst Nursery School, St Marys Lane, 2-5 years, 01892 860577

The Little Learning Tree Preschool @ Salvation Army TW, for children 2-5 years, 07948 085991

The Little Learning Tree Preschool, Number One Community Centre, TN2, 2-5 yr, 07925 177730

TONBRIDGE, Brenchley Preschool Limited, 2-5 years, 01892 724261

TONBRIDGE, Capel Preschool Playgroup, 01892 833363

TONBRIDGE, Delarue Crickets Pre-School (2-5 Years), Welland Rd, TN10 3TD, 07496 288372

TONBRIDGE, East Peckham Preschool, 01622 871268

TONBRIDGE, Happy Faces PreSchool, Hectorage Rd, TN9, 2 to 5 years, 01732 368823

TONBRIDGE, Horsmonden Kindergarten, 2-5 years, TN12, 01892 724805

TONBRIDGE, Longmead Nursery (Robin Class), 3-5 years, 01732 350601

TONBRIDGE, Playaway Preschool, Cage Green School, TN10, 01732 354325

TONBRIDGE, Roselands Preschool, Woodlands School Grounds, TN10, 01732 368580

TONBRIDGE, St Margaret Clitherow Catholic Nursery School, TN9, 2-5 yrs, 01732 358000

TONBRIDGE, STEPS, St Stephens Church Pre School, Waterloo Road TN9, 01732 363642

TONBRIDGE, Tots Teachers Preschool, 07752 127522

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Bishops Down Primary School Nursery 3+ yrs, 01892 520114

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Hawkenbury Nursery School, Forest Road, 07833 772857

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Dragon’s Playgroup at St George’s, 01892 543982

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Owls, Toch Hall, 07840 977238

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Rascals Preschool, TN1, 2 -5 years, 01892 313244

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Manor Road PreSchool, 07972 739852

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Niven Lodge PreSchool Nursery, Tunbridge Wells TN2, 01892 547259

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Augustine’s Nursery, TN4, 01892 542783

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St James’ Church PreSchool, TN2, 07905 276612

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Matthew’s High Brooms PreSchool, Church Hall, TN4, 2-5 years, 07768 518191

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St. Luke’s Nursery School, St Luke’s Church Hall, TN4, 2½4yrs, 01892 619955

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Rocking Horse Nursery, TN1, 2 yrs+, 01892 532704

Independent Schools

Beechwood Sacred Heart, Tunbridge Wells 3-18yrs, 01892 532747

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Private Tutoring • A-Z Activities for Children 5-16yrs

Fosse Bank School and Fosse Bank Kindergarten, Hildenborough 2-11yrs, 01732 834212

Hilden Grange School, Tonbridge, co-ed, 3-13 years, 01732 351169

Hilden Oaks Preparatory School & Nursery, Tonbridge, 01732 353941

Holmewood House School, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells 3-13yrs, 01892 860000

Kent College Prep School, Pembury 2.511yrs, 01892 822006

Kent College Senior School, Pembury TN2, 11-18yrs, 01892 822006

New Beacon School, Sevenoaks, boys 4-13yrs, 01732 452131

Radnor House Prep School, Sevenoaks, 01959 564320

Radnor House Senior School, Sevenoaks, 01959 563720

Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells, 3-13yrs, 01892 525591

Russell House School, Otford, Sevenoaks, 01959 522352

Sackville School, Hildenborough 1118yrs, 01732 838888

Sacred Heart School, Wadhurst 3-11yrs, 01892 783414

Sevenoaks Preparatory School, 2½-13 years, 01732 762336

Sevenoaks School, co-ed, day and boarding, 11-18yrs, 01732 455133

Solefield School, boys, Sevenoaks TN13, 4-13yrs, 01732 452142

St Michael’s Preparatory School, Otford

3-13yrs, 01959 522137

The Granville School, Sevenoaks girls

3-11yrs boys 3-4yrs, 01732 453039

The Mead School, Tunbridge Wells TN2, co-ed, 3-11yrs, 01892 525837

The Schools at Somerhill, 3 schools, preprep co-ed, boys 3-13yrs, girls 3-11yrs, 01732 352124

The Schools at Somerhill, Derwent Lodge, Tonbridge TN11, girls, 7-11 years, 01732 352124

The Schools at Somerhill, Somerhill

Pre-Prep Tonbridge TN11, co-ed, 3-7 yrs, 01732 352124

The Schools at Somerhill, Yardley Court, Tonbridge TN11, boys, 7-13 years, 01732 352124

Tonbridge School, boys, day and boarding, 13-18 years, 01732 365555

Walthamstow Hall, Sevenoaks 3-18yrs, 01732 451334

Primary Schools

Bishops Down Primary School, Tunbridge Wells, 3-11 years, 01892 520114

Brenchley and Matfield Primary School, Tonbridge TN12, 4-11 years, 01892 722929

Broadwater Down Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN2, 4-11 years, 01892 527588

Cage Green Primary School, Tonbridge, 4-11 years, 01732 354325

Edenbridge Primary School, 4 to 11 years, 01732 863787

Fordcombe Cof E Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN3, 01892 740224

Four Elms Primary School, Edenbridge, 4 to 11 years, 01732 700274

Ide Hill Cof E Primary School, Sevenoaks, 4-11 years, 01732 750389

Ightham Primary School, 4 to 11 years, 01732 882405

Kemsing Primary School, 4 to 11 years, 01732 761236

Langton Green Primary School, 01892 862648

Long Mead Community Primary School, Tonbridge, 3-11 years, 01732 350601

Longmead Community Primary School, 01732 350601

Paddock Wood Primary School, Paddock Wood, 01892 833654

Pembury Primary School, 4-11 years, 01892 822259

Penshurst Primary School, Penshurst TN11, 01892 870446

Platt Primary School, TN15, 4 to 11 years, 01732 882596

Rusthall Primary School, TN4, 01892 520582

Seal Primary School, Seal, 5-11 years, 01732 762388

Sevenoaks Primary School, TN13, 4-11 years, 01732 453952

Shoreham Village School, Sevenoaks

TN14, 4 to 11 years, 01959 522228

Southborough C Of E Primary School, 01892 529682

Speldhurst C of E Primary School, 4-11years, 01892 863044

St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN4, 01892 529796

St George’s C of E Voluntary Controlled Primary School, 4 to 11 years, 01732 882401

St James School, 7- 11 years, 01892 523006

St Johns C of E Infant School, Sevenoaks

TN13, 01732 453944

St John’s Cof E Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN4, 4-11 years, 01892 678980

St Katharine’s Knockholt Church of England Primary, Sevenoaks TN14, 4 to 11 yrs, 01959 532237

St Lawrence C of E Primary School, Sevenoaks TN15, 4 to 11 years, 01732 761393

St Mary the Virgin C of E Primary School, Hartfield, 4 to 11 years, 01892 770221

St Michael’s Primary School, Withyham, 4 to 11 years, 01892 770307

Temple Grove Academy, Tunbridge Wells, 4-11 years, 01892 520562

Weald Primary School, come and visit us just outside Sevenoaks to find out more, 01732 463307

West Kingsdown CE Primary School, 4 to 11 years, 01474 853484

Woodlands Primary School, Tonbridge, 01732 355577

Tutoring, standard school subjects and 11+

11+ mock tests and revision courses

Tunbridge Wells run by experienced tutors, 07517 861487

English all ages to A level/IB, Creative Writing, French, 07786 392763

Exams Access Arrangements Assessor (Y5-Y13) available now West Kent/ Sussex, , 07504 939649

Extra Tuition Centre, all over Kent, 11+, 0800 917 4194

Fleet Tutors: Britain’s Leading Tutoring Service Provider, 0333 920 9629

IELTS Exam Lessons. 1:1 with very experienced teacher. Tunbridge Wells area, 07504 939649

Kip McGrath, English and Maths Tuition, Tunbridge Wells, 6-16 years, 01892 458184

Kumon Maths, Sevenoaks, 01342 851221

Kumon Maths, Tonbridge, 01622 817544

Lyn Wurf private tutor - I teach primary Maths/English/touch typing from my home, 07792 052292

Private tutor, Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas, primary school, 11+, SATs, www.yltuition.com

Tunbridge Wells Music Lessons - Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, Piano - Tunbridge Wells, 07904 320750

TW Music School: Drum, Guitar, Bass, Vocal Piano, 01892 750157

Activities for additional needs children

Bradbourne Riding Centre (Riding for the Disabled), Sevenoaks, 01732 453592

Arts and Crafts

Little Springers: Baking, cooking, Crafts, Gardening, Music 3yrs+, 07768 466327

Nature Makers is a nature based arts and crafts class for children aged 0-6, 07415 780943

The Ceramic Studio provide pottery classes for adults and children, www. theceramicstudio.co.uk

Basketball

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre 14-15yrs, 01732 470700

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, under 16s, 01892 540744

Ceramic Painting Studios

The Ceramic Studio provide pottery classes for adults and children, www. theceramicstudio.co.uk

The Handwriting Tutor Kent, Learn neat, legible and joined up handwriting, www.thehandwritingtutorkent.co.uk

Tutor English GCSE. Very experienced teacher. Tunbridge Wells area, 07504 939649

Foreign Language Tuition

Caroline Cunnington-King, French and Spanish Tutor, Tonbridge, 07884 255749

Elisabeth Reichert-Eckersley, conversational german tuition, 01342 811099

German Saturday School, Tonbridge Kidslingo Spanish Classes, 07984 207908

My Spanish Tutor, One to One Online Spanish Tuition for All Ages and Levels, 07545 018144

Sevenoaks English Language Centre, english for foreigners, 07717 214041 Spanish for children, Edenbridge rea, native teacher, 07917 744515

Tonbridge Russian School, Beginners to GCSE and A-level, 10yrs experience, 3yrs+, 07715 559035

Instrumental and Vocal Tuition

Caroline Stinton, Piano, Bassoon and theory lessons, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 524315

Classical singing lessons Tunbridge Wells from beginners to advanced. all ages, 01892 538453

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Sevenoaks! Electronic keyboard group classes 4+yrs, www.funkymonkey.info, 01732 457100

Joe’s Academy of Music: music for all ages and abilities, Tunbridge Wells, 07938 226435

Timothy Lowe ARCM, FISM Expert piano and theory tuition, 07588 549622

Circus Skills

Showtime Performing Arts 3.5yrs+ Malling School Oxted School Weekends Only, 07749 650222

Climbing

Chimera Climbing Centre, a vibrant and modern public amenity, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 457294

Clip n Climb, Indoor climbing arena for adults and children, 01732 753330

Extreme Ventures, outdoor rock climbing courses, nr Tunbridge Wells, 6yrs+, 07835 528548

Kent and Sussex Climbing Indoor, Climbing Academy 6yrs+, 01892 673167

Kids @ Chimera, minimum age 5 years (under 16’s adult supervision required), 01892 457294

Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing activities, 01892 860670

The Climbing Experience Fun Wall and Bouldering Gym, Maidstone 4+, 01622 677977

Cricket

Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club 7yrs+, 01892 825513

Cycling

CYCLEme TOTS, Mid-Kent Classes, 2-7 years, 07739 389281

Southborough and District Wheelers, 8yrs+, 01892 537758

Dance and Theatre Arts

Act II Academy of Drama & Performing Arts, LAMDA Teaching in the Sevenoaks Area, 01732 463293

Cannon Holt Irish dance, classes for children and adults from age 3 years, Tonbridge & Aylesford, 07977 500673

Catherine Bellinger School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells 2yrs+, 01892 542549

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A-Z Activities for Children 5-16yrs

D2Dance School: Ballet, Modern, Street, Singing, Tap, Musical Theatre 3yrs-adult, 07709 173256

Dance Academy Sevenoaks, RAD Ballet Cont tap Modern, Commercial Jazz, 3yrs+, 01732 469806

Dancing Boutique, 82 Victoria Road, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 529720

Dynamic Dance, for all ages from toddlers, various venues, based in Tonbridge, 01732 357518

Evolution Dance Academy, ballet, street, musical theatre, Edenbridge area, 2yrs+, 07709 348723

Firefly Dance School, Ballet, Modern, Tap, National, Irish Boys/Girls, all ages, 07734 816989

Happy Me Kids, fun and funky dance classes for your child in Tunbridge Wells, 07427 371396

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, Otford, Sevenoaks, 5-18yrs, 01689 812336

Inception Dance, fun, lively ballet and dance classes, Hartfield, 2yrs+, 07920 181454

Italia Conti, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 529112

Jigsaw Performing Arts, 3-18 years, Sevenoaks, 01732 386053

JPA Academy, Acting Singing Dancing Academy 6-18yrs, 07870 460687

Judy Hamlet School of Dance, Kemsing - Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Street for 3yrs+, 07971 679055

Just Dance: Ballet, Modern, Tap, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 864517

Martial Arts with Fortitude Taekwondo is not all about punching and kicking. We don’t “fight”. We develop and hone skills. From a beginner white belt to black belt and beyond, we instil values.

You see, Taekwondo is actually 3 words in one. It translates into “Foot Fist Way”. Yes, we teach how to use tools to kick or punch powerfully, however the “Do” teaches us to treat people with respect and to “Build a more peaceful world”.

We teach about the 5 tenets of Taekwondo Courtesy Integrity

Perseverance

Self Control Indomitable Spirit

Without the tenets to underpin training, ego can creep in. The Father and Founder of Taekwondo Grandmaster General Choi Hong Hi 9th Dan taught humility; urging practitioners to remain humble and seek out perfection rather than assuming it.

Fortitude Taekwondo is for all the family. From the youngest Ninjas from 3 years old to those who are very much young at heart. We have Dads training with their children, brothers and sisters and aunts and uncles! Friends do free trials together and new friendships are formed and forged in classes. Fortitude is for all the family. Fortitude is a family.

So, come and find a different kind of fitness with us. A free 2 week trial offers you the chance to get to know us and see that the first step is easy.

Tunbridge Wells - Fortitude Martial Arts Academy - Martial Arts

www.tkd4u.co.uk

Kent College Theatre Academy, Theatre and Drama lessons, 5-18yrs, 01892 822006

Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, from babies to adults, Tunbridge Wells, 07817 290552

Make Believe Sevenoaks, Sing, Act, Dance Ages 3-18, 0208 123 7927

Medway School of Dance, Tonbridge, Latin Ballroom and Disco Dance 3 yrs+, 01732 358355

Pauline Quirke Academy Summer School, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, 07961 387798

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing class for 4-7yrs and 7-12yrs, 020 7255 9120

Razzamataz FREE TASTER SESSIONS in Singing Dance & Drama for ages 2-18, 07401 801318

Showtime Stage Schools now in Kent & Medway, Sat & Sun 4-18yrs Free Trials, 01732 430300

SJ School of Dance Academy 5yrs+, 07880 499801

Southborough School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 529720

Stagecoach Performing Arts, 4-16 yrs, Tonbridge, 01444 456208

The Dance Studio, 2.5yrs+ Ballet, Tap and Jazz. T Wells, Paddock Wood, Otford, 07812 565826

The Talentz Musical Theatre 5-16yrs, 07899 998249

Theatre Train Dance Act Sing 6-18yrs, 07710 478246

22 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

A-Z Activities for Children 5-16yrs

Trinity Youth Theatre 8-18yrs, 01892 500673

VR School of Dance, Ballet, Street Jazz, Modern, Musical, Sevenoaks, 07539 551568

Fencing

Junior Fencing, School ages, Angel Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 359966

Royal Tunbridge Wells Fencing Club, 7 years +, 07786 000488

First Aid Courses for Children

British Red Cross, 0800 028 0831

Daisy First Aid Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks, Family First Aid Classes, 07939 507662

St John Ambulance Kent, enquiries, 0344 770 4800

Fitness and Activity Clubs

‘A’ Team Fun Club, 5-12yrs,Sat 09:3012:00, Angel Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 772685

At home fun Mama & Baby/child workouts, suitable for all ages incl, prenatal, 07707 346552

Mummy & Me Pilates Classes every Wednesday at 11am at Pembury Pavilion, , 07876 787869

Sarah’s Runners, Nevill Pavillion Cricket Ground, TN2 5ES, minimum age 17 years, 07900 825836

Sevenoaks Nordic Walking, 01732 453271

Target Shooting School - Term time classes, holiday workshops, parties 8-18 yrs, 07426 301849

TeenFit and Junior Spin 11-15yrs, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Football

Charlton Football Coaching 3-13yrs, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

D&D Footie Focus, weekend and evening football coaching for 2½ to 8 years, 07969 669153

First Class Football: Advanced Football Skills Coaching 2yrs+, 07929 861394

Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, up to 7 years, 0208 432 0982

Pure Football Academy, Additional Training, Kent & Sussex, 18mnths - 14yrs, 07872 864016

The Rondos Advanced Football Academy, 5-18yrs, Hildenborough, 01892 822554

Toddler Football, up to 4yrs, Edenbridge Leisure Centre, 01732 865665

Tonbridge Invicta FC, New! Girls Football for 11yrs+, football club and coaching, 07891 626537

Tunbridge Wells Foresters FC, Football Club and coaching 5yrs+, 07718 393138

Tunbridge Wells Ladies FC, Girls Football 5-16yrs, 07801 045941

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, Fun Footie 5-7yrs, Girls 11-14yrs, Junior U16yrs, 01892 540744

Golf

Hever Castle Golf Club 5yrs+, 01732 700771

Hilden Golf Centre, Tonbridge 3yrs+, 01732 833607

Knole Park Golf Club, Sevenoaks, junior membership 11-17 years, 01732 452150

Lamberhurst Golf Club, Tunbridge Wells

6yrs+, 01892 890591

Nevill Golf Club, Tunbridge Wells 6yrs+, 01892 525818

Poult Wood Golf Centre, Tonbridge

8yrs+, 01732 364039

Tonbridge Golf Centre 3yrs+, 01732 353281

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Sevenoaks, 01732 451437

Gymnastics

Gymnastic Club Kent, Tunbridge Wells, all ages, 01892 550530

Gymnastics, Angel Leisure Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 772685

Gymspire offers quality gymnastic classes to children of all abilities and ages, www.gymspireacademy.com

Kent College Gymnastics Academy Gym

lessons 5-18yrs, 01892 822006

PreSchool, Juniors, 7-11yrs and Tramps, 5-14yrs, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Gymnastics, 4-16yrs, 01732 470700

Hockey

Tunbridge Wells Hockey Club 6-16yrs, Email via website

Tunbridge Wells Inline Hockey Club 6yrs+, 01892 535439

Horseriding

Bradbourne Riding Centre, Sevenoaks, 01732 453592

Hadlow College Equestrian Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 852204

Matfield and District Riders Association, 5yrs+, 01892 836058

Orchid Riding School, 6yrs+, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 652020

Riding Farm Equestrian Centre, 4yrs+, Hildenborough, 01732 838717

South Farm Riding Stables, 5yrs+, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 864807 Wellgrove Farm Stables, Pembury 3yrs+, 01892 822087

White Rocks Farm Western Riding, near Sevenoaks, 01732 761888

Leisure Centres

Angel Leisure Centre, Angel Lane, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1SF, 01732 359966 Edenbridge leisure Centre, Stangrove Park, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 5LU, 01732 865665

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, Mascalls Court Rd, Tonbridge TN12 6NZ, 01892 838290

Sencio Community Leisure Centres, Edenbridge, 01732 865665

Sencio Community Leisure Centres, Sevenoaks, 01732 470700

Sencio Community Leisure Centres, Swanley, 01322 662188

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre: pool, gym, sports hall, crèche, martial arts, 01732 470700

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, 01732 451437

Martial Arts, Self Defence

Bushido Judokan, Tunbridge Wells 5yrs+, 07823 441460

Fortitude Taekwondo, 3yrs+, Sevenoaks, Edenbridge, Westerham, Hildenborough, 01342 302192

Frontier School of Karate and Kickboxing (FSK), Crowborough, 3yrs+, 07970 686054

Fortitude Taekwondo, Martial Arts for ALL ages and abilities in Tunbridge Wells. 4 WEEK FREE TRIAL, 01342 302192

Oaks Martial Arts, 3yrs+, Sevenoaks, Hildenborough, Edenbridge, 01732 759988

PPCKD Self Defence for children as young as 3.5 years. Fun, fitness and friends, 07590 559421

Sama Karate Kids Karate 4yrs+ and Kickboxing 10yrs+, 01444 461889

Shinseido Karate, Riverhead Parish Hall, Sevenoaks, 18yrs+, 07710 437485

Tunbridge Wells Taekwon-do, traditional martial arts, self defence and sport. 4 years+, www.twellstkd.co.uk

Multiple Sports

EXCEL Fitness Programme, 11-16yrs, Angel Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 359966

Kickstart Fitness mixed games 5-10yrs, Angel CentreTonbridge, 01732 772690

Langton Green Community Sports Association, 01892 862967

Multi sports for 3-16yrs 3rd Sun 13:0014:30 Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 5yrs +, 01892 540744

Music Groups, Centres

Brittens Music School, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 559319

West Kent Music Centre - Music lessons and groups for musicians of all ages, 01622 358408

Outdoor Pursuits Centres

Bowles, Eridge Green nr Tunbridge Wells, 01892 665665

Rollerblading and Skateboarding

Tunbridge Wells Tigers Inline Roller Hockey 7yrs+, 01892 535439

Rugby

Rugby Tots for 2-7 yr olds, weekday and weekend classes throughout West Kent, 0345 3130807

Tunbridge Wells RFC Girls RugbyYears 7-13 girls only / Years R-6 Mixed, 07753 933936

Snow Sports

Dry Ski Slopes at Bowles, Eridge Green nr Tunbridge Wells, 01892 665665

Squash

Tunbridge Wells Squash Rackets Club - Junior Squash and Racket Ball, 01892 527736

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Sevenoaks,

01732 451437

Swimming, Pool Sports

Alison Marks Swim School, Hildenborough, 3yrs+, 01732 365440

Angela’s Swim School, Sevenoaks, 07703 185837

Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, 01732 455800

Edenbridge Leisure Centre Swimming, Classes and fun swimming, 01732 865665

Helens Swimming School, 4 months +, 01892 662484

Holmewood House Swim School 5yrs+, Langton Green, 01892 860035

Little Fishes, parent and baby/toddler/ children 4ys+, Oxted and Westerham, 07834 737211

RTW Monson Learn To Swim (Level 3-competitive swimming), 07779 703317

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Classes and fun swimming, 01732 470700

Starfish School of Swimming all ages and abilities, Sevenoaks, 01732 834186

Tonbridge Swimming Pool, Castle Street, indoor and outdoor pools, 01732 367449

Tunbridge Wells Sports and Tennis, Swimming classes for all ages, 01892 540744

Table Tennis

Byng Hall Table Tennis Club 7yrs+, 07768 742414

Tennis

Evolution Tennis Coaching at Brenchley and Matlock Tennis Club Juniors, 01622 532354

Jarrett Tennis School at Tunbridge Wells Sports and Indoor Tennis Centre, 01892 538445

Jarrett Tennis School for 5-14yrs, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 538445

Oakbury Tennis Club Juniors, Sevenoaks, 07821 621403

Short Tennis, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre 4-10yrs, 01892 540744

St Johns Tennis Club, Tennis Courses, 5-18yrs, 01892 546252

Tennis Academy, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, 01959 523377

Tunbridge Wells Lawn Tennis Club, 01892 525625

Trampolining

Edenbridge Leisure Centre, trampolining coaching 5-16yrs, 01732 865665

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, Paddock Wood 5yrs+, 01892 838290

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Trampolining, 4-15yrs, 01732 470700

Trampolining, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Wildernesse Sports Centre Trampolining, Sevenoaks, 01732 451437

Uniformed Groups

Girlguiding UK for your nearest Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Rangers, 0800 999 2016

Scoutbase UK for nearest Beaver, Scout, Venture, Air and Sea, 0345 300 1818

Watersports

Bewl Water Outdoor Centre: canoeing, sailing, wind surfing etc, 8 years +, 01892 890000

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Edenbridge Sub Aqua Club, Edenbridge

Leisure Centre, 14yrs+, 07702 473898

Hall and Room Hire

Ashurst McDermott Village Hall, 01892

740618

Bells Yew Green Village Hall, 01892 543025

Benenden Village Hall, 07419 989830

Bessels Green Baptist Church, Bessels Green, Tonbridge, 01732 454921

Bidborough Village Hall, 07517 145731

Brenchley Memorial Hall, 01892 832579

Camden Centre - Tunbridge Wells, 01892 521384

Copt Hall, Hawkhurst, 01580 752058

Cowden Memorial Halls, 2 halls, kitchen and car park, day and evening, 01342 850532

Delarue Hall and Barn, weekend and bank holiday hire, 01732 367917

Delarue Hall, Tonbridge, Hire for all occasions, 01732 367917

Dunton Green Village Hall, 01732 469610

Edenbridge WI Hall, 01732 865368

Frant Memorial Hall, 01892 752123

Groombridge Village Hall, 07552 170679

Hadlow Old School Hall, 01732 851878

Hildenborough Village Hall, six rooms for hire, 01732 833092

Horsmonden Village Hall, 01892 723955

Langton Village Hall, 07581 471147

Mencap Hall, Hitchen Hatch Lane, 01732 458775

Pembury Baptist Church Hall, Pembury,

01892 825590

Pembury Village Hall, 07983 228181

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, Paddock Wood, 01892 838290

Rickards Hall, Edenbridge, 01732 865368

Sackville School, sports hall, 4 x badminton courts, large playing fields & beautiful stately home school building, www.sackvilleschool.co.uk

Sackville School, various facilities for hire for events including a large Marquee in beautiful grounds, www.sackvilleschool.co.uk

Showfields Hall, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 514544

Speldhurst Village Hall, 07786 948952

St Barnabas Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Southborough, 01892 529158

St James Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 521703

St John the Baptist, Sevenoaks, 01732 541710

St John’s Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 540897

St John’s Methodist Church, Southborough, 01892 544578

St Luke’s Church Hall, Sevenoaks, 01732 743045

St Mary’s Church Hall, Riverhead, 01732 450408

St Matthew’s Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 618108

St Paulinus Church Centre, Edenbridge, 01732 864070

St Peter’s Church, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 327734

St Philip’s Church, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 531031

St Stephen’s Church Community Centre, Tonbridge, 3 halls, 01732 771977

Sunnyside Hall, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, 08450 743399

TN2 Community Centre, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 538230

Tonbridge Christ Church Centre, 01732 770334

Trinity Youth Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 500673

Wesley Centre, Paddock Wood, 01892 521384

Party Venues

Angel Leisure Centre, Tonbridge, 01732 359966

Birthday experiences at Bowles, Eridge Green nr Tunbridge Wells, 01892 665665

Diggerland, Medway Valley leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood ME2 2NU, 0871 22 77 007

Edenbridge Leisure Centre, 01732 865665

Extreme Ventures, outdoor rock climbing/scrambling, nr Tunbridge Wells, 6yrs+, 07835 528548

Minor Mania, soft play, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 752042

Parties at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 01892 540744

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre Paddock Wood, 01892 838290

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, 01732 470700

Temper Temper Chocolate, Chocolate workshops and parties, 01892 538758

The Pottery Box, Tonbridge’s latest go-to pottery-painting destination for all ages - www.thepotterybox.co.uk, 01732 617440

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, 01732 451437 Woodland Parties, the perfect woodland venue for children’s parties, 07889 094821

Party Supplies and Planners

Sleepy Teepeez Kent offer tailor made sleepovers for children, www. sleepyteepeezkent.co.uk

Country and Garden Tent Hire, we hire beautiful bell tents for all occasions, www.countryandgardententhire.com

Party Bag Online, your one stop shop for personalised filled party bags, 07976 728857

Soft Play Kent, soft play hire for under 5s in Kent, www.softplaykent.co.uk

The Little Play Company, soft play hire, lots of different packages available, 07887 713436

Twilight Tents provide beautiful themed Tent Sleep Over Party packages, 07710 078467

Walking Balloons offer a great variety of animal balloons that walk beside you, 07763 860066

24 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
Party Stuff

Spot Ten Differences

Get ready to go on an action-packed, heartfelt historical adventure with

ALSO AVAILABLE

Word Search

River Journey Family Friends Miners Jason Richie Wild Cat Forest

Track the Wild Cat

Jason and his friends are on the lookout for the legendary wild cat. Can you help them find it?

Paw Prints

How many wild cat paw prints can you find? (Not including the one above)

Moondreamers is a luxury Teepee sleepover company providing for East Sussex/Kent, 07943 958937

Music Bugs: Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, 07738 878821

My Unique Sleepover, Sleepover parties for 5-13 year olds. Covering West Kent, 01732 905373

Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing activities, 01892 860670

Once Upon a Wish Events - Events and Party entertainment tailored to suit you!, 07739 584988

Perform Parties for 4-7 years are high energy, fun and totally infectious, 020 7255 9120

Pic-n-Mix Parties for boys and girls, 1-11yrs, 07860 801173

Pop Up Arcade, The Ultimate Gaming Birthday Party. Set up inside or in our heated gaming tents, 0203 0892439 Princess and the Pea Events, fun singing & dancing character packages, 07557 145648

D&D Footie Focus, football themed parties, 5 to 12 years, 07969 669153

Dance Parties for girls and boys, aged 3-12yrs. One or two hours available, 01892 864517

Dandelion and Clover Yoga - Yoga and art parties with a theme of your choice, 07734 435708

Enchanted Events, magical party & events entertainment, styling & catering, 07788 998441

Jumping Beans Parties, 07768 038172

Kazzamataz comedy magic show, crazy games and dance routines, 07859 015231

Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, 18mths-7 yrs, 0208 432 0982

M Sporti Football and Multisports, 07920 780983

Ready Steady Sport - Multi sport for all children 3yrs upwards, 07764 187401

Show Offs Parties: Circus Acts, Balloon modelling, themed parties, 07749 650222

Stagecoach Parties, 01444 456208

Superstar Pamper Parties exclusive pamper parties for girls aged 5-14 years, 07941 509495

The Pottery Box, Tonbridge’s latest go-to pottery-painting destination for all ages - www.thepotterybox.co.uk, 01732 617440

Vintage Afternoon Tea served in your own venue perfect for that special occasion, 07545 807031

Zebadee Kidz Parties Tonbridge, one stop shop for all your entertainment needs!, 07773 066645

Holiday Schemes and Activities

Activity packs for kids, crammed with snacks and travel activities, 3-10 years, 07798 773960

Alison Marks Swim School Holiday Courses, Hildenborough, 3 years+ (not Winter), 01732 365440

Angel Centre, Tonbridge - Drop in fun sessions, 01732 359966

Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, 01732 455800

Barracudas - Activity Day Camps, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Maidstone, 0845 123 5299

Bewl Water Outdoor Centre, kids camps, variety of activities, 4 years+, 01892 890000

Bishops Down Holiday Play Scheme, Tunbridge Wells, 3-11yrs, 01892 520114

Camp Beaumont Holiday Camps, Kent College, Tunbridge Wells, 01603 851000

25 Please tell advertisers you heard about them through the www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent'Grapevine'
OUT 16TH MARCH
ANSWERS WORD SEARCH SPOT TEN DIFFERENCES PAW PRINTS -
Start
Well Done!
TRACK THE WILD CAT
26 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Holiday Schemes & Activities

Funtech.co.uk - Summer Tech camps, Tonbridge, 01628 621216

Holden Park Preschool and After School Club, 2 to 11 years, 01892 520626

Hubbub, School Holiday Childcare, education, fun & adventure, High Brooms, 07942 937006

Junior Summer Golf Camps, Poult Wood, Tonbridge. 7-14yrs, 01732 364039

M Sporti Football and Multisports, 07920 780983

Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing activities, 01892 860670

Perform, holiday activities and workshops, 020 7255 9120

Pied Piper Activities, 4-12yrs, multiactivity Easter & summer holiday camps, piedpiperactivities.co.uk

Play ‘n Grow holiday club is a new club for 2-11 yrs, 8am-6pm Tue to Thu, 07727 692645

Premier Playscheme - action packed activity days, several venues, 01953 499 040

Recrea8 Tonbridge, , Sporting & Creative term time and holiday courses, 01732 304123 www.recre8courses.co.uk

Southeast Kids Camps, activity day camps across Sussex/Kent - Children

4-12 yrs, 01444 461889

St Georges’ Childcare, 5-12 yrs

Tunbridge Wells, 01892 543982

Super Camps, holiday activities in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge, 01235 467300

Target Shooting School - Term time classes, holiday workshops, parties 8-18 yrs, 07426 301849

Wilder Holiday Club with Kent Wildlife Trust, book online now at www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/holiday-club, 01622 662012

Family Days Out

Chartwell, family home and garden of Sir Winston Churchill, Westerham, 01732 868381

Chiddingstone Castle, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7AD, 01892 870347

Emmetts Garden, an Edwardian estate, 01732 868381

Groombridge Place, moated manor house, fun things to do for families, 01892 861444

Hever Castle and Gardens, Edenbridge, 01732 865224

Penshurst Place and Gardens, the medieval Baron’s Hall is one of the grandest, 01892 870307

Quebec House, the birthplace of General James Wolfe, 01959 567430 Spa Valley Railway, journey through the High Weald countryside, 01892 537715 The Hop Farm Family Park, full of attractions, Paddock Wood, 01622 872068

Tonbridge Castle, Motte and Bailey Castle with a splendid 13th Century Gatehouse, 01732 770929

Places to Visit

Chartwell, family home and garden of Sir Winston Churchill, Westerham, 01732 868381

Chiddingstone Castle, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7AD, 01892 870347

Diggerland, Medway Valley leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood ME2 2NU, 0871 22 77 007

East Grinstead Museum - Kid’s activities and exhibitions take place all year, 01342 302233

EM Forster Theatre, Tonbridge, 01732 304241

Emmetts Garden, an Edwardian estate, 01732 868381

Hever Castle and Gardens, Edenbridge, 01732 865224

Kent Life Heritage Farm, 01622 763936

Kent Wildlife Trust, lots of events for the whole family, Sevenoaks, 01622 662012

Penshurst Place and Gardens, the medieval Baron’s Hall is one of the grandest, 01892 870307

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Hythe CT21 4LR, 50 species of animals to see, 01303 264647

Quebec House, the birthplace of General James Wolfe, 01959 567430

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, 01732 459777

Scotney Castle, National Trust, Lamberhurst, Kent, 01892 893820

The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceaux, 01323 832731

Attractions Out of Area

Blue Reef Aquarium, the ultimate undersea safari, Hastings, 01424 718776

Bluebell Railway, steam hauled trains, great day out, 01825 720800

Bodiam Castle, Bodiam, 01580 830196

British Wildlife Centre, Newchapel, nr Lingfield, RH7 6LF, 01342 834658

Chislehurst Caves, miles of mystery and history, 020 8467 3264

Farmyard Childrens Parties at Christmas

Tree Farm, Downe Village, 01689 861603

Go Ape, Bedgebury, high-wire Tree

Top Adventure and Tree Top Junior, 01603 895500

Godstone Farm, so much to do, a great family day out, 01883 742546

Hastings Adventure Golf- outdoor family fun on the seafront, 01424 437227

Heaven Farm, nature trail, camping, tea room, family fun, 01825 790226

Leeds Castle, 900 years of history, 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, 01622 765400

Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham BN27 3QS, 01323 844224

The Llama Park at Ashdown Forest with Christmas Wonderland, Wych Cross, 01825 712040

27 Please tell advertisers you heard about them through the 'Grapevine'
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Free Events Listings Add your local event to our FREE Events website page Holiday Schemes & Activities • Places to Visit

Upcoming Events in West Kent

Room on the Broom at The Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells, 9th - 10th March

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Mum2Mum Market Nearly New Sale – Kings Hill, West Malling, 11th March www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

NCT Nearly New Sale - Sevenoaks and Tonbridge, 12th March

Hillview Dance Platform at the E.M.Forster Theatre – Tonbridge, 12th – 13th March

www.emftheatre.com

Story Time at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 13th March

www.trinitytheatre.net

Talentz Showcase 2023 at The E.M. Forster Theatre – Tonbridge, 18th March

www.emftheatre.com

The Little Mermaid at The E.M. Forster Theatre – Tonbridge, 24th – 26th March

www.emftheatre.com

Easter Grotto at Godstone Farm - Godtsone, 1st -16th April

www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Scotney Castle, Easter Adventures with The National Trust – Lamberhurst, 1st – 16th March

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ scotney-castle

Spring Artisan Market at The Amelia – Tunbridge Wells, 1st April

www.theamelia.co.uk

Easter at Reuthe's – Sevenoaks, 1st – 9th April

www.reuthes.com

Easter Fun at The Hop Farm –Paddock Wood, 1st – 16th April

www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Spring into Easter at Kent Life – Maidstone, 1st – 16th April

www.kentlife.org

Knole Park - Easter Adventures with the National Trust, 1st – 16th April www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/knole

Pinocchio at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 1st April

www.trinitytheatre.net

Chartwell - Easter Adventures with the National Trust, 1st – 16th April

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ chartwell

Emmetts Garden - Easter Adventures with the National Trust, 1st – 16th April

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ emmetts-garden

Mad Hatter's Children's Party at Reuthes Lost Gardens, 1st – 10th April

www.reuthes.com

Ightham Mote - Easter Adventures with the National Trust, 1st – 16th April

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ ightham-mote

Goldilocks and The Three Bears at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 5th April

www.trinitytheatre.net

Little Red Riding Hood's Easter Train Ride, Spa Valley Railway 7th – 10th April

www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Reuthe's Easter Children's Party – Sevenoaks, 8th April

www.reuthes.com

Nick Cope Family Show at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 8th April

www.trinitytheatre.net

I Want My Hat Back Trilogy at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 11th April

www.trinitytheatre.net

Legally Blonde at The E.M. Forster Theatre

– Tonbridge, 13th – 15th April

www.emftheatre.com

Mr Magnolia at The Trinity Theatre – Tunbridge Wells, 13th April

www.trinitytheatre.net

Monkey’s 30th Birthday Party - Sevenoaks Indoor Bowling Centre, 15th April

www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/tunbridgewells-tonbridge-sevenoaks-westerham

28
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

Upcoming Events in West Kent

A Bee-rilliant Adventure! at The AmeliaTunbridge Wells, 15th April www.theamelia.co.uk

A Mass of Blosson at Chartwell 22nd - 30th April

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ chartwell

May Bank Holiday Weekend at Kent Life – Maidstone, 29th April – 1st May www.kentlife.org

The Coronation of King Charles at Kent Life - Maidstone, 6th May www.kentlife.org

The Smeds & The Smoos at The Assembly Hall TheatreTunbridge Wells, 9th -10th May www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Mum2Mum Market Nearly New Sale – Kings Hill, West Malling, 20th May www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Monkey’s 30th Birthday Party - Sevenoaks Indoor Bowling Centre, 20th May www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/tunbridgewells-tonbridge-sevenoaks-westerham

The Great Outdoors at Kent Life - Maidstone, 27th May – 4th June www.kentlife.org

An Ant’s View Photography Workshop 29th-30th May

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/ emmetts-garden

Matilda at The Festival Theatre Hever Castle - Edenbridge, 31st May heverfestival.co.uk

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at The Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells, 31st May - 3rd June www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

See The Gruffalo at Kent Life - Maidstone, 17th – 18th June www.kentlife.org

Monkey’s 30th Birthday Party - Sevenoaks Indoor Bowling Centre, 24th June www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/tunbridgewells-tonbridge-sevenoaks-westerham

29 Please tell advertisers you heard about them through the 'Grapevine'
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Not forgetting all the usual farmyard fun this Spring! 1st - 16th April EASTER TIMES ROLL THIS LET THE GOOD BOOK ON LIN E Don’t forget to book the GREAT EASTER ESCAPE too! heverfestival.co.uk 07379 488477 Festival Theatre The at HEVER CASTLE Forty years of open-air theatre in the castle gardens MAY - AUGUST 2023
30 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Easter Adventures at The National Trust
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
© National Trust Images

Easter Adventures at The National Trust

National Trust

Easter Adventures & Spring Flowers

Bring the whole family together this Easter and treat your loved ones to a spring adventure with the National Trust in Kent. There’s plenty of fun and discovery to be had as you spot the signs of spring, and experience nature bursting into life.

Chartwell

Join Chartwell’s Easter adventure trail ‘Being Winston’ and explore elements of Churchill’s life, career, and hobbies. Little ones will love the officer training obstacle course, and there’s Easter themed painting, tips, and topics for debate.

While you enjoy your egg, there are plenty of places to run, play and explore in the wider estate including the Marycot, bomb crater and treehouse – or have a wander through the Orchard and find the chickens in the Walled Garden.

Blossom trees create a stunning spring display at Chartwell with pink and white cherry blossom, apple blossom in the orchard and magnolia trees framing the approach to the house. This year, Chartwell are taking part in the national Festival of Blossom over 22-30 April when local community groups will create blossom benches in the garden decorated with origami paper flowers.

There will also be a collaborative art project making origami blossom to hang from the pergola on the Terrace Lawn.

Emmetts Garden

Come to our Easter adventure trail inspired by the fetes the Lubbock family hosted at Emmetts Garden. With traditional games, including splat the rat, hook a duck and coits, there will be plenty to keep you busy as you complete the trail before a trip to the wild play area where grown-ups can enjoy a coffee to keep up their energy levels.

Spring is a special time at Emmetts when the garden comes to life with a dazzling display of blooms. Early in the season spot snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils before the bluebells begin to take over, transforming the woodland into a sea of blue. Discover the spectacular tulip meadow shaded by cherry blossom trees and an explosion of colour from over 130 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas.

Chartwell and Emmetts Garden are near Westerham in Kent. Normal admission applies.

Easter trails run 1-16 April and cost £3 per child, plus normal National Trust admission/free entry for National Trust members.

www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/chartwell

www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/emmetts-garden

© National Trust Images

www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent 31

The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle

We’re celebrating Hever Festival Theatre’s 40 exceptional years!

Kent Rep Theatre Company was created by Richard Palmer and his family 40 years ago to produce a new, varied and exciting programme of theatre for Kent. The group of local actors, directors, and designers chose to present their work in the reperto ry format which performed more than 70 plays over the following years. Opening With A Midsummer Night’s Dream i n the magical atmosphere created in the Italian Garden, The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle was born. The festival soon became one of the most popula r open-air venues in the South-East, still attracting many thousands of visitors each summer.

We’re celebrating Hever Festival Theatre’s 40 exceptional years!

Hundreds of performers have taken part alongside Kent Rep including jazz stars; Humphrey Lyttelton, George Melly, Stacey Kent and the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Classical music and opera still form a large part of the theatre programme including Charles Court Opera’s hit Gilbert and Sullivan performances, and the ever-popular Last Night of the Hever Proms with The Brandenburg Sinfonia. Josh Widdicombe, Seann Walsh, Andy Parsons, Mark Steel, Shapi Khorsandi and Tom Allen to name but a few, continue to make us cry with la ughter. All this together with family shows including Horrible Histories and Room On The Broom. Recent events have taken place in many spaces across the estate; Shakespeare’s Globe, the Guildhall Strings and puppetry with Long Nose Puppets ’ Arthur’s Dreamboat and Elmer the Elephant, magician Ben Hart, musical entertainment covering the last century of electrifying music from the Magic of Motown to Amy Winehouse, as well as many, many plays.

Kent Rep Theatre Company was created by Richard Palmer and his family 40 years ago to produce a new, varied and exciting programme of theatre for Kent. The group of local actors, directors, and designers chose to present their work in the reperto ry format which performed more than 70 plays over the following years. Opening With A Midsummer Night’s Dream i n the magical atmosphere created in the Italian Garden, The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle was born. The festival soon became one of the most popula r open-air venues in the South-East, still attracting many thousands of visitors each summer.

Hundreds of performers have taken part alongside Kent Rep including jazz stars; Humphrey Lyttelton, George Melly, Stacey Kent and the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Classical music and opera still form a large part of the theatre programme including Charles Court Opera’s hit Gilbert and Sullivan performances, and the ever-popular Last Night of the Hever Proms with The Brandenburg Sinfonia. Josh Widdicombe, Seann Walsh, Andy Parsons, Mark Steel, Shapi Khorsandi and Tom Allen to name but a few, continue to make us cry with laughter. All this together with family shows including Horrible Histories and Room On The Broom. Recent events have taken place in many spaces across the estate; Shakespeare’s Globe, the Guildhall Strings and puppetry with Long Nose Puppets ’ Arthur’s Dreamboat and Elmer the Elephant, magician Ben Hart, musical entertainment covering the last century of electrifying music from the Magic of Motown to Amy Winehouse, as well as many, many plays.

The festival goes from strength to strength despite not receiving an y public subsidies or grants, relying entirely on ticket sales to finance each season. We couldn’t do this without the fabulous support of Hever Castle, they are exceptional , and, along with the Guthrie family, our greatest supporters. Our volunteers play a huge role in our success, their dedication guarantees the extraordinary atmosphere which can only be created at the Festival Theatre.

Festival Director Ailsa Molyneux says

‘We are so proud of The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle. Our stunning venue, staf f and performers are a tribute to our breathtaking home. We can’t wait to celebrate being 40 with our audiences. That will be when the real fun begins.’

The festival goes from strength to strength despite not receiving an y public subsidies or grants, relying entirely on ticket sales to finance each season. We couldn’t do this without the fabulous support of Hever Castle, they are exceptional , and, along with the Guthrie family, our greatest supporters. Our volunteers play a huge role in our success, their dedication guarantees the extraordinary atmosphere which can only be created at the Festival Theatre.

Festival Director Ailsa Molyneux says

Hever Festival Theatre is a unique treasure in the heart of Kent. Do join us to celebrate our 40 th year this summer. www.heverfestival.co.uk The box office opens on 13 March.

‘We are so proud of The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle. Our stunning venue, staf f and performers are a tribute to our breathtaking home. We can’t wait to celebrate being 40 with our audiences. That will be when the real fun begins.’

For further details, images and interviews please contact Alison Bundy ailson@heverfestival.co.uk 07710 074075

Hever Festival Theatre is a unique treasure in the heart of Kent. Do join us to celebrate our 40 th year this summer. www.heverfestival.co.uk The box office opens on 13 March.

For further details, images and interviews please contact Alison Bundy ailson@heverfestival.co.uk 07710 074075

Top image the first ever production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1983 Below the Festival Theatre today

32 www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent Hever Castle Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NG 07379 488 477 www.heverfestival.co.uk
Hever Castle Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NG 07379 488 477 www.heverfestival.co.uk
www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent
Top image the first ever production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1983 Below the Festival Theatre today (credit David Bartholomew)
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