ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT intheDIARY COMING SOON
FROM
2 MAY 2026
ROCHESTER SWEEPS FESTIVAL Rochester High Street, Rochester 2- 4 May
Back for another vibrant three‐day spring festival packed with entertainment, tradition and community spirit to mark May Day, when centuries-old chimney sweeps celebrated their one day of freedom and festivity. Saturday offers the largest gathering of Morris dance groups, on Sunday the festival showcases Morris and international folk dance and music, and on Monday the festival celebrates the great May Day traditions with the legendary Jack in the Green Parade.
TBC Free visitmedway. org
© Visit Medway
10
MAY 2026
THE WHISKY EVENT 2026 The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London
Showcasing over 800 whiskies, a vast range of cocktails and a must-catch series of masterclasses from professional whisky connoisseurs, the event, hosted by iconic beverage retailer The Whisky World, invites intrigued whisky enthusiasts to taste the finest whiskies in the company of some of the biggest names in the industry. Experience kosher culinary excellence by Ezri catering and sample terrific cocktails crafted by Swizl Mixologists, all in the luxurious setting of The Royal Lancaster Hotel.
5pm- 10pm From £ 120pp thewhiskyevent. com
16
MAY 2026
A SPRING STEAM ADVENTURE FROM KENT TO BATH | Ashford International, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Bromley South & Maidstone
ACROSS THE BORDER!
Steam Dreams brings the golden age of rail travel to life with beautifully restored heritage carriages, impeccable service and indulgent onboard dining. Departing from various Kent stations including Ashford International, Tonbridge, Bromley South and Maidstone, their steam‐hauled day trip to Bath is a standout spring experience. A wonderful opportunity for an across-the-border adventure with loved ones, savour Pullman Dining or First Class comfort and enjoy the ever‐changing view from the comfort of your seat.
Various departure times from 7am From £ 245 steamdreams. co. uk
FROM
23
MAY 2026
PLANT HUNTERS: TALES & TRAILS Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge 23- 31 May
Embark on a globetrotting botanical adventure this May half term, inspired by the daring plant explorers of the past! This immersive event brings history, nature and storytelling together across Hever Castle’ s stunning grounds. Visitors can follow the Plant Hunters Trail in the footsteps of history’ s boldest plant hunters to uncover hidden botanical treasures and younger explorers can enjoy the Tales of the Plant Hunters daily storytelling sessions.
10.30am- 6pm Included with general admission hevercastle. co. uk
FROM
30
MAY 2026
TONBRIDGE FOOD FESTIVAL Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge 30- 31 May
Sample, savour and buy from more than 70 stallholders selling a delicious range of food and drink produced in Kent and beyond at this year’ s Tonbridge Food Festival. Discover delicious cheeses, breads, cakes and sweet treats alongside locally roasted coffee and specialist teas. Delight in a curated taster menu from one of the many stalls serving delectable homemade hot food made with quality produce and enjoy the additional foodie-inspired activities such as cooking demonstrations from popular local chefs and producers.
11am- 6pm Free tonbridgecastle. org www. insidekent. co. uk • 23