Visit Tonbridge
A visit to Tonbridge Castle will take around two hours but we’re central enough to make a full day of it. Come and enjoy all that Tonbridge has to offer. Have a coffee, a picnic, dine out, relax on a boat, feed the ducks, browse the shops or local markets. You’ll be spoilt for choice of things to do, right from our doorstep.
Food and drink
Take a few steps from the castle’s gatehouse and you’ll find yourself in the High Street. You'll find a great choice of places to eat and drink. Whether a light bite from a bakery, a traditional pub meal or indulgent dining at a restaurant, there’s plenty of choice nearby.
Shopping
Tonbridge High Street has some great independent shops alongside well-known names offering you lots of choice. You can apply for a TN Card which supports shopping locally by providing discounts at more than 60 retailers in the area.
See the TN card.
Watch our video
Sports and play
If you want to get active there are plenty of options beyond the castle grounds. On the other side of the bailey lawn opposite the castle, a path leads to Tonbridge Sportsground. Here toddlers to teens can enjoy the large play area with a vast choice of play equipment including a sandpit and zipwire. There are sports pitches for football, baseball and rugby plus an outdoor gym, table tennis, skate park and crazy golf. There is also a refreshments kiosk and public toilets.
Nearby is the popular outdoor pool at Tonbridge swimming pool which opens from April until October. There are also two indoor pools and spa facilities to enjoy all year round.
For opening times see TM Active - Tonbridge swimming pool.
Virtual orienteering
Using your phone or GPS smartwatch, design your own route around a set of virtual checkpoints. The courses are free and can be done at a time that best suits you.
Download the MapRun app from their website, or buy printed maps for £1 at:
- Tonbridge Castle gift shop
Find out more or download the orienteering maps at Saxons Orienteering or Find Your Way .
Haysden Country Park
Haysden Country Park is on the outskirts of Tonbridge. It’s well worth the 25 minute walk from the castle with its fresh water lakes and grassland, nature trails and play area.
See Visit our country parks at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.
Cycling
Tonbridge to Penshurst Cycle Path runs from Tonbridge Castle, through Haysden Country Park and on to Penshurst Place. The five-mile route is mostly off road and suitable for families.
See the Tudor trail at Sustrans.
River trips
Book a relaxing 50-minute boat ride with Tonbridge River Trips. You're start and finish point is right by the castle at The Big Bridge. You can also hire a rowing boat for four to five people (no need to book). See Tonbridge River Trips.
If boats aren’t your thing a walk along the river is just as enjoyable. Find out about local walks.
