Kent


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4.jpg" alt="Christmas at Royal Victoria Place" class="wp-image-120008" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-4-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Every December <a href="https://royalvictoriaplace.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Victoria Place</a> makes an effort to put itself on the map as a magical day trip experience, rather than just a shopping centre. But this year, the festive dial has been turned <em>all the way up</em>. </p>



<p>With new experiences, dazzling décor and the kind of community spirit that Tunbridge Wells does best, RVP has become a full-scale wonderland for families and shoppers. And let&#8217;s not forget, <strong>Primark finally opens on Fri 12 Dec</strong> &#8211; yes, this is the <em>real</em> Christmas countdown we’ve all been waiting for.</p>



<p>Everything has been done with class, no naffness here &#8211; and the activities for kids are spot on. Here are eight brilliant ways to make the most of the festive season at RVP:</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-the-enchanted-cabin">1. THE ENCHANTED CABIN</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="2000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5.jpg" alt="Christmas at Royal Victoria Place" class="wp-image-120009" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5-600x800.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5-750x1000.jpg 750w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5-300x400.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-5-1152x1536.jpg 1152w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>From the award-winning team at Once Upon a Wish Events comes a fully immersive meet-and-greet with Father Christmas, <a href="https://enchantedcabin.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Enchanted Cabin</a>. Step into his cosy cabin, craft your own take-home reindeer food and enjoy a sprinkle of playful elf mischief throughout. Take your own photos or professional photos will also be available to purchase. Done beautifully and a memory they&#8217;ll always remember.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-festive-vibe">2. FESTIVE VIBE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1125" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2.jpg" alt="Nutcracker" class="wp-image-120006" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2-800x600.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2-1000x750.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2-400x300.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-2-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The beloved Teddy Selfie spot has become something of a Tunbridge Wells tradition (recently named Spencer, in honour of Princess Diana, who opened the centre in 1992). Rest assured, Spencer is back, but this year, you&#8217;ll also find brand new decorations and photos ops like the lush Nutcracker set (shown above), inspired by the famous Christmas ballet, and adding festive feels whilst you shop. Find it on the lower mall, next to Primark. Go on, hop in the seat for a selfie and don&#8217;t forget to tag RVP on social media!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-teddy-bears-picnic">3. TEDDY BEARS PICNIC</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3.jpg" alt="Christmas at Royal Victoria Place" class="wp-image-120007" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-3-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The iconic Giant Teddy becomes the setting for a brand-new experience: the Teddy Bears’ Picnic, taking place on <strong>Sun 14 and Sun 21 Dec</strong> at <strong>11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm</strong>. Hosted by the warm and wonderful Mrs Claus (with a surprise guest popping in along the way), each 30-minute storytelling session features a brand-new Christmas tale. </p>



<p>Across the season, that’s 24 enchanting festive favourites to enjoy, making every visit a fresh storybook adventure. Little ones are invited to bring their favourite teddy and settle in for heartwarming stories that come to life right at the heart of Royal Victoria Place. After each session, children can meet Mrs Claus for a photo and take home a chocolate bear treat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-the-christmas-elf-amp-the-toymaker">4. THE CHRISTMAS ELF &amp; THE TOYMAKER</h2>



<p>This December, <a href="https://kidsburyplay.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kidsbury Roleplay Village</a> has transformed into an intimate magical theatre for a brand-new festive adventure. <em><a href="https://kidsburyplay.com/christmas-at-kidsbury-play/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Christmas Elf &amp; The Toymaker</a></em> tells the story of a struggling toymaker and a clumsy but well-meaning elf whose world&#8217;s collide on Christmas Eve. What follows is a joyful tale of chaos, courage, laughter and the true meaning of kindness. Tickets are £15 which includes a small gift for each child at the end of the performance. Kidsbury will continue running its regular play sessions throughout December. Limited tickets available. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-shopping">5. SHOPPING</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1125" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1.jpg" alt="Christmas at Royal Victoria Place" class="wp-image-120005" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1-800x600.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1-1000x750.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1-400x300.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-1-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Whether you&#8217;re ticking off your gift list or treating yourself, RVP offers a vibrant balance of brand names and independent retailers. These independents are must-visits for Christmas shopping: Renaissance (women’s fashion), Kids Stuff (toys, games &amp; LEGO), Even Flow (second-hand books &amp; records), Retro Stuff (pop-culture homewares &amp; memorabilia), Toulson Jones (jewellers) and Zerdo (gourmet food and treats). </p>



<p>Plus, explore a wealth of homeware, beauty, gifting and lifestyle favourites including Fenwick, Søstrene Grene, Oliver Bonas, LUSH, Hotel Chocolat, iStore, HMV, The Perfume Shop, Pandora, The Body Shop and so many more. And of course &#8211; Father Christmas came early &#8211; the brand new (long-awaited) Primark opens on Fri 12 Dec (don&#8217;t pretend you&#8217;re not excited).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-ely-fest">6. ELY FEST</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1005" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells.jpg" alt="Ely Fest" class="wp-image-120101" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells-800x536.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells-1000x670.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells-400x268.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ely-fest-tunbridge-wells-768x515.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Christmas isn’t just for the kids, grown-ups can enjoy festive vibes too. <a href="https://royalvictoriaplace.co.uk/2025/06/05/get-ready-for-the-ultimate-celebration-of-local-music-at-ely-fest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ely Fest</a> is their new weekly live music event, running every Saturday from 2pm – 4:15pm in Ely Court. </p>



<p>Free to attend and family-friendly, it showcases brilliant local musicians across a variety of genres. It’s the perfect soundtrack while you shop, snack or simply soak up the atmosphere. Check Instagram or Facebook to see who’s performing each week.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-seasonal-pop-ups">7. SEASONAL POP-UPS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1494" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place.jpg" alt="Pop-Ups" class="wp-image-120106" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place.jpg 1494w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place-800x535.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place-1000x669.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place-400x268.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/pop-ups-royal-victoria-place-768x514.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1494px) 100vw, 1494px" /></figure>



<p>Haven’t visited since last Christmas? You’ll spot a host of exciting new arrivals including Sumo Donuts, Mr Simms, Frook Eats, Kochi スフレ, Jamaica Blue, Zerdo and of course Primark (just opened). Oliver Bonas has also expanded into a larger unit, offering even more gorgeous gifts and homewares. Seasonal favourites like Calendar Club have returned, joined by a rotating line-up of pop-ups filled with festive finds, accessories and surprise treats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-window-wonderland-trail">8. WINDOW WONDERLAND TRAIL</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7.jpg" alt="Christmas at Royal Victoria Place" class="wp-image-120010" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/kent/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/rvp-tunbridge-wells-7-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>This year’s Christmas window displays promise an extra dose of magic, with participating retailers creating eye-catching festive scenes across the centre. Follow the <a href="https://royalvictoriaplace.co.uk/2025/10/08/window-wonderland-trail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Window Wonderland Trail</a> and vote for your favourite to help crown the People’s Choice Winner, and every vote enters you into a draw to win a <strong>£50 Fenwick gift card</strong>. Ends 16 Dec so get voting!</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-festive-fun-this-way"><em>MORE FESTIVE FUN THIS WAY</em></h2>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://kent.muddystilettos.co.uk/xmas/kent-festive-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Festive fun! 50 family activities to do in Kent</a></li>



<li><a href="https://kent.muddystilettos.co.uk/things-to-do/whats-on/macknade-faversham-at-christmas/">5 reasons to make it a Macknade Christmas this year</a></li>



<li><a href="https://kent.muddystilettos.co.uk/things-to-do/day-trips/canterbury-at-christmas/">There’s nowhere more Christmassy than&nbsp;Canterbury</a></li>
</ul>


8 reasons Royal Victoria Place has become a festive destination this December

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