The Seven Wonders of the Weald is not only celebrating its 10th anniversary this year but visitors to Kent can also celebrate some great money saving offers with our great value Seven Wonders of the Weald annual pass. Valid for a year from purchase the pass allows one free entry into many of the attractions.
The pass costs £25 from www.sevenwonders.org.uk or buy passes when you visit Biddenden Vineyards, Chiddingstone Castle, the Tourist Information Centre in Tunbridge Wells or Maidstone or at the Kent & Sussex Holiday Cottages shop located in Cranbrook High Street.
The Seven Wonders of the Weald are unique attractions which are an easy drive from one another. The wonders are Groombridge Place, Scotney Castle, Biddenden Vineyards, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Chiddingstone Castle & Gardens, the elegant and historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells and Hole Park Gardens in Rolvenden, which is a new member of the group.
The historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells is the gateway to the Seven Wonders of the Weald and has a great selection of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. The Pantiles is the oldest part of the town and was once the playground of Georgian royalty and the aristocracy who came to enjoy the, reputedly, health-giving Chalybeate Spring water which visitors can still enjoy today. The Assembly Hall Theatre has an exciting programme of shows throughout the year and in the summer months the Pantiles comes alive with jazz performances on a Thursday evening. Calamity Jane comes to the Theatre between 28 July and 1 August.
Discover the beautiful gardens of the newest wonder, Hole Park Gardens in Rolvenden where every season is a delight. See the stunning bluebells, rhododendrons and standard wisteria in spring before the herbaceous borders come to life in summer. Late summer is the time to see the unique agapanthus ‘Hole Park Blue’ before the exotic border and autumn colour take centre stage. The tree swing will delight younger visitors and the home made cakes are delicious!
The fabulous Scotney Castle in Lamberhurst offers something for all the family with a fascinating country house to explore, romantic gardens and a 14th century moated castle. The beautiful parkland and wooded estate offers some lovely walks. Families can also enjoy activities themed around the 50 things to do before you are 11& 3/4’s campaign including den building.
The diesel and steam trains at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden take passengers on a nostalgic journey along the 10 ½ miles of track through unrivalled Wealden countryside and the beautiful Rother Valley. The route terminates in the Sussex village of Bodiam in the shadow of the magnificent National Trust castle. For something a little different why not experience the Making Tracks for the Sixties Event between 29 and 31 August with sounds, fashion, vehicles and trains from the twentieth century’s grooviest decade.
Chiddingstone Castle offers a relaxing day out and the opportunity to experience a country house full of ancient treasures from Japan and Egypt together with Buddhist and Stuart artefacts. A number of recreated rooms provide an insight into life in a country house in Victorian times. The beautiful grounds include a lake, rose garden and Grade II listed orangery. On 2 August visitors can enjoy the Castle’s inaugural Vintage Fair on the South Lawn with stalls, refreshments and entertainment from bygone days – including a special guest performance from the fabulous dancing Lindy Hoppers and even an old fashioned Punch & Judy Show!
Biddenden Vineyards are set in 22 acres and just a short distance from the lovely Wealden village of Biddenden. Ten varieties of grapes are grown to produce white, red, rosé and quality sparkling wines, all of which are pressed and bottled on site. Visitors to the vineyard are able to take a walk through the vines on a defined route and take a look around the winery. There is also the chance to taste the award winning wines, ciders and juices in the vineyard shop.
Groombridge Place and Enchanted Forest near Tunbridge Wells is full of surprises with a walled garden, a moated manor house, birds of prey, a canal boat and adventure play through the forest with giant tree swings, a pirate ship and raised board walk with rope swings and zip wire. The new Nerf arena, Supa-soaker and instructor led archery provide additional fun for children and adults. In the summer holidays magic and intrigue comes to Groombridge Place when famous fairy tale characters entertain families visiting the attraction. The Myths, Legends and Fairy Tales event takes place between 23 July and 31 August.
If you are planning a stay in Kent or Sussex a visit to our accommodation page will provide plenty of inspiration with information about our accommodation partner Kent & Sussex Holiday Cottages who are located in Cranbrook and Sandwich.
Visit www.sevenwonders.org.uk to find information about the Wonders and all the exciting events taking place over the summer holidays.
Press enquiries and image requests to Caroline Edmunds at Pennington PR 01892 616647 or 07775 943305 caroline@penningtonpr.com
