insideKENT Magazine Issue 152 - December 2024 | Page 98

OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
GUIDE
DIVINE DINING
VERDIGRIS Utterly stylish riverside restaurant , wine and cocktail bar that intrigues and excites all diners with its lovingly crafted dishes , experienced mixologists and expertly curated wine list created by Clive Barlow ( Master of Wine ) alongside the Verdigris team . Join for elevated alfresco dining and drinks with a view , or sit inside to soak up the inimitable atmosphere .
THE MARKET HOUSE For indulgent weekend brunches , flavourful small plates or special afternoon teas , The Market House has got you covered . With regular music events , celebratory offerings and plenty of
tipples , this lively hotspot is the place to be for delicious food and uplifting surroundings .
ELA BELLA Perched on the town ’ s high street , this praised French and Italian restaurant prides itself on its tasty homecooked dishes , seafood delights and authentic use of flavour . The menu also features an array of vegan , vegetarian and glutenfree options - all certain to please .
The Market House ( top left ), Ela Bella ( bottom left )
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
WALK TONBRIDGE Founded from a pure love of Tonbridge and its marvellous settings , Walk Tonbridge is a remarkable local organisation that proudly showcases local walks in and around the town . Additionally , they also hold the annual celebration , Walk Tonbridge Festival , which gathers the community for joyous guided walks and charity events to raise money for Sustain , a local food and fuel bank .
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
TONBRIDGE CASTLE Iconic 13th-century castle that beckons both locals and visitors to explore the historical gatehouse , great hall and winding stairs . Opt to join a guided tour , climb the motte for captivating town views or wrap up warm for a relaxing picnic on the pretty , enclosed lawn . The castle also promises a calendar of annual events including themed activities , outdoor performances and artisan markets .
EM FORSTER THEATRE The in-house theatre for the acclaimed Tonbridge School ; showcasing a host of touring and locally produced music , drama and musical theatre
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
KAREN ALEXANDRA BEAUTY & WELL-BEING For all your beauty and well-being needs , visit expert Karen at her Tonbridge shop for premium organic skincare and makeup from a selection of top brands . Karen also offers luxury , organic and bespoke facial treatments by appointment .
ZILCH ZERO WASTE Established from a passion to eliminate single use and hidden plastics in everyday living and change the way we think about our shopping to lend a helping hand to our planet , Zilch is a Tonbridgebased and online zero-waste store offering a variety of sustainable and reusable products . alongside talks , children ’ s productions and comedy in both its 380-seat auditorium and studio space . The theatre is currently in preparations for its annual festive pantomime , this year setting out to delight audiences with a fantastic production of Snow White !
ARTSPRING GALLERY Independent art gallery created and run by local and regional artists with an array of inspiring exhibitions from paintings , watercolours , printmaking and digital art to photography , ceramics , glass and jewellery .
HAYSDEN COUNTRY PARK A Green Flag holder and home to a range of natural habitats such as river , grassland , freshwater lakes , marshland and woodlands , Haysden Country Park spans 65 hectares and is open daily for scenic rambles , bike rides , fishing or family fun in the adventure play area .
CARROTY WOOD Situated just outside of Tonbridge , nestled within 58 acres of mature woodland , Carroty Wood invites groups and families to explore the site ’ s thriving wildlife and an impressive range of activities including a heated indoor swimming pool , camping areas , sports hall , instructed games and more . The venue also offers various accommodation - perfect for a unique getaway amongst the wilderness .
GRACE FASHION ACCESSORIES Beautiful family-owned boutique specialising in stylish yet affordable handbags , clothing , jewellery and accessories . Browse the shop ’ s regularly stocked collection of unique and high-quality pieces that make for wonderful additions to your wardrobe .
EM Forster Theatre ( top right ), Grace Fashion Accessories ( bottom right )
98 • www . insidekent . co . uk