Amazing April! 38 things to do locally this month

The social calendar’s full and celebrating spring! From world-class comedy to fun theatre, heritage sites out of hibernation, and lovely literary events, here’s what’s on.

1 – 7 APRIL

Style Yourself Workshop, Terri Gilham Hair Spa, Tues 1 April

Struggling to recreate that salon-perfect style at home? Join the experts at Terri Gilham Hair Spa for an exclusive hands-on workshop from 6-8pm. Designed to give you the confidence, techniques, and insider tricks to master your hair every day. For just £20, enjoy a personalised 1-2-1 styling session, live demos, expert tips, 10% off products, a luxury goody bag, plus drinks and snacks. Spaces are limited.

Celebration of Spring, Hever Castle, Open now til Mon 5 May

Hever Castle & Gardens welcomes spring with a spectacular floral celebration, from vibrant tulips and blossoming cherry trees to fragrant hyacinths and carpets of bluebells. Explore the stunning displays on a self-guided tour from 31 March – 5 May, or join the gardening team from 22 – 27 April for expert-led tours packed with insights and seasonal tips. For a hands-on experience, learn how to create a living wreath with fresh spring blooms from 28 April – 2 May. With nature in full bloom, there’s no better time to visit Hever Castle.

Yotes Court Vineyard, Maidstone, Open now

Yotes Court Vineyard is welcoming the new season with extended hours and a range of experiences from Sat 29 March. Unwind with a glass on the Paddock Lawn, browse the Cellar Door Wine Barn for your new favourite bottles, or explore the vineyard on a guided tour as the vines come back to life. Open Wed to Sun from 12pm to 5:30pm, with tours running from March to October, it’s the perfect spot to embrace spring with a taste of Kent’s finest wines.

Author Events, Sevenoaks Bookshop, Tues 2 – Tues 29 April

Sevenoaks Bookshop hosts a stellar line-up of author events this April, offering something for every book lover. Join Nikki May on Weds 2 April for an evening of conversation, or get expert gardening tips from Jo Thompson on Tues 8 April. On Weds 16 April, take part in a special book club with Ela Lee, discussing Jaded, followed by an evening with bestselling author Rachel Joyce on Tues 22 April. Food enthusiasts won’t want to miss Asma Khan on Tues 29 April, sharing insights from her latest cookbook. Visit Sevenoaks Bookshop’s website to book your spot.

Andy Zaltzman, Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury, Weds 3 April

Andy Zaltzman, one of the UK’s sharpest satirical minds, takes on the state of the world in his biggest stand-up tour yet. With the third millennium almost 2.5% complete, he tackles life’s big questions – What? Who? Where? And above all, Why? Best known as the chair of The News Quiz and the long-running host of The Bugle podcast, Andy blends razor-sharp wit, global satire, and, occasionally, cricket stats. Catch him at the Gulbenkian for an evening of intelligent comedy, absurd observations, and premium-grade hogwash.

The Very Best of Tommy Cooper, The Hazlitt Theatre, Thurs 3 April

Step into the world of comedy legend Tommy Cooper with The Very Best of Tommy Cooper. Hailed as a top Glastonbury Festival attraction in 2023 and 2024, this one-man show brilliantly recreates the magic, mischief, and sheer hilarity of Britain’s beloved entertainer. Produced and performed by award-winning West End star Daniel Taylor, it’s a fast-paced tribute packed with Cooper’s iconic one-liners, masterful wordplay, and classic tricks. With the blessing of the Tommy Cooper Estate, this is the ultimate celebration of a true comedy giant.

The Milk House, Sissinghurst, Fri 4 – Sun 20 April

April at The Milk House is packed with great food, live music, and family fun. The woodfired pizza oven returns on Fri 4 April, serving up fresh slices on the terrace and in the bar. On Sun 6 April, test your musical knowledge at a Live Music Quiz with Andy Mack, with live performances and quiz teams battling it out. From 5 to 20 April, little ones can take part in an Easter Egg Letter Hunt, searching the garden for hidden letters to claim a chocolate treat. Easter Sunday, 20 April, brings a special spring roast lamb in the dining room, the perfect way to round off the spring festivities.

Sip & Craft, Mereworth Winery, Fri 4 April

Enjoy a creative evening of wine and crafts at Mereworth Winery, perfect as a belated Mother’s Day gift or a long-overdue catch-up with friends. Hosted by Simone Wilson, this relaxed workshop will guide you in crafting a stunning floral wall decoration using dried and preserved flowers, a grapevine wreath base, and elegant ribbon. For £65pp, you’ll receive all materials plus a glass of Mereworth’s finest sparkling wine. A beautiful blend of creativity and indulgence, this is an experience to treasure. To book, email Simone at rosesandribbonsuk@gmail.com.

Dreamland, Margate, Sat 5 April

Dreamland Margate kicks off its 2025 season this spring, bringing vintage seaside charm and plenty of thrills to the coast. From classic fairground rides and rollercoasters to retro roller skating in the Roller Room, there’s fun at every turn. Food stalls serve up tasty bites, arcades buzz with energy, and the new Free Roaming VR experience adds a futuristic twist. Now open daily with free entry, visitors can grab a Mega Ride or Tiny Tot Wristband for unlimited rides, making it easy to soak up a full day of nostalgia and excitement by the sea.

Comedy Club 4 Kids, Trinity Theatre, Sat 5 April

Yes its stand up comedy but for kids! At Trinity for the first time. See the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best – just without the rude bits! Comedians announced for Tunbridge Wells include the award-winning comedian Katie Pritchard and Joe Wells. It’s just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day and kids are allowed in. We love!

Crafting Workshop, The Alex, Faversham, Mon 7 April

This Easter half term, let the kids get creative at The Alex with a fun-filled crafting workshop on Mon 7 April. They’ll design their own unique masterpiece to take home, take part in lively party games, and enjoy team-building activities, all while making new friends. Parents can drop off the little ones with their experienced team or relax with a coffee in the lounge. Spaces are limited.

8 – 15 APRIL

Balfour Wine Dinner, St Leonard’s, West Malling, Thurs 10 April

Wine lovers and food enthusiasts are in for a treat as St Leonards announces its second Balfour Wine Dinner this month. This exclusive evening pairs a specially curated menu with some of Balfour Winery’s finest English wines, promising an unforgettable experience. Savour dishes such as English asparagus with morels, egg yolk, and watercress, perfectly matched with Sage’s Ortega 2023, and warmed Tunworth with rhubarb and bacon crumb, complemented by Blanc de Noirs 2020. Priced at £150pp, including wine pairings, this refined dining event is an unmissable celebration of exceptional food and wine. Book asap.

Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act, The Hazlitt Theatre, Thurs 10 April

Sherlock Holmes fans, take note as there are still a few tickets left for this gripping production at The Hazlitt Theatre. Step back to 1916 as Holmes, lured from Sussex retirement by Dr Watson’s funeral, returns to Baker Street for one final case. In a mesmerising solo performance, Nigel Miles-Thomas brings fourteen characters to life, capturing heated debates, sharp cross-examinations, and both comic and intense encounters with Conan Doyle’s most beloved figures. As the curtain falls, the great detective unveils a shocking secret, one you won’t want to miss.

Rosé Tasting, The Rock Inn, Chiddingstone, Thurs 10 April

If you missed out on a table for Mother’s Day, here’s an event she’ll love. Consider booking it as a gift. Take a seat in the garden for a rosé wine tasting and help shape The Rock Inn’s summer wine list. Sample six rosé wines, enjoy nibbles at the table, and have your say on their bestsellers. Plus, take home cases of your favourites with 35% off the list price. £30pp, advance booking only.

Pottery & Yoga, The Nuttery in Ryarsh, Thurs 10 April

Carve out some ‘me’ time and join this five-hour retreat in West Malling with this gorgeous day of pottery and yoga. Begin with a welcome smoothie before a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a nourishing brunch. The afternoon is dedicated to pottery, where you’ll create your own piece, with a coffee and cake break to finish. £100pp.

FREE Easter Egg Trail, Green Farm, Shadoxhurst, Thurs 10 April

Join this FREE Easter Egg Trail at Green Farm, where every child who finishes will be given a Cadbury’s chocolate egg plus ‘put the tail on the bunny’ and colouring competitions. Bring your own blanket and picnic or enjoy the wood fired pizzas, sausage rolls, cakes, teas and coffee on offer. All in aid of the Pearce Coggan Foundation. 11am – 2pm.

The Wizard of Oz, The Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone, Sat 12 April

Dive into a world of adventure at the Hazlitt Theatre this Easter with three spectacular family shows. Catch Strictly and CBBC‘s Karim Zeroual as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz on 12 April, expect breathtaking sets, dazzling effects and all your favourite toe-tapping songs.

Gusbourne x Elliott Grover of CUT at 45 Park Lane, Sat 12 April

Gusbourne is teaming up with Elliott Grover, Executive Chef of CUT at 45 Park Lane, for an exclusive four-course lunch cooked over fire. Joining forces with Gusbourne’s Head Chef Anthony Coppard, this menu takes inspiration from CUT’s renowned dishes, perfectly paired with Gusbourne’s award-winning wines. Guests will also enjoy canapés and a tutored tasting for an unforgettable dining experience. Priced at £145pp, this is a must for food and wine lovers.

Spring Stroll, Penshurst Place, Sun 13 April

Enjoy a guided Spring Stroll around the stunning Penshurst Place estate, with lunch and admission included. Led by the general manager, this two-hour all-terrain walk offers seasonal highlights, breathtaking views, and insights into the estate’s history, wildlife, and biodiversity. After the walk, enjoy a two-course lunch in the exclusive Sunderland Room, followed by afternoon access to the formal gardens and historic house. The experience runs from 10:30am to 2pm, with house and garden access afterward. £45pp.

Green Fun Day, Tenterden Railway Station, Sun 13 April

For £1 entry, pop along for a fun day guaranteed with living green at the heart of it. The whole family can enjoy live music, nature talks and activities, free face painting, a raffle with prizes and so much more. Just add sunshine.

Wedding Open Day, Rowhill Grange, Sun 13 April

Rowhill Grange’s Wedding Open Day is the perfect opportunity to explore the venue and meet handpicked suppliers who can help bring your dream day to life. See The Clockhouse dressed for the occasion, chat with the expert wedding team, and get all the details on capacities, suppliers, and exclusive use. If you prefer a more personal experience, private in-person appointments are available seven days a week, offering a tailored tour at a time that suits you. RSVP via their website asap.

16 – 22 APRIL

Into The Woods, EM Forster Theatre, Thurs 17 – Sat 19 April

The Talentz Musical Theatre Company presents Into the Woods, the beloved musical by James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim. This enchanting tale follows a baker and his wife on a quest to break a witch’s curse, intertwining their journey with Cinderella, Jack, and other classic fairytale characters. Wishes come true, but not without consequences, leading to a gripping and poignant conclusion. A modern classic filled with humour, heart, and unforgettable music.

Easter Cork Hunt, Chapel Down, Fri 18 – Mon 21 April

This Easter, head to Chapel Down Winery for a delightful Easter Cork. Explore the vineyard in search of hidden corks, redeemable for a chocolate egg or a glass of sparkling wine for adults. Feeling lucky? Find one of five Golden Corks and win a Free Tour & Tasting Voucher for two. Make a day of it with refreshments from the horsebox and wine tastings at the Cellar Door Bar. A perfect Easter escape in the heart of the Kent countryside.

Food Village Launch Party, Macknade, Faversham, Fri 18 April

Mark your calendars – The Food Village is coming back! Bringing top-tier street food, live music, and unbeatable vibes. Kicking off the Easter weekend in style, enjoy legendary burgers from the Macknade kitchen, plus authentic Italian pizza, Asian fusion, tacos, and crepes from resident vendors. The Wild Box bar is fully stocked with cocktails, wine, beer, and more, while The Regulars take the stage from 6pm. No bookings, no parking fees, just turn up.

Cider & Wine Tours, Woolton Farm, Canterbury, from Sun 20 April

Running from April to September at 2:30pm, the Woolton Wine Tour offers a guided walk through the beautiful vineyards at Woolton Farm in Bekesbourne. Learn about the grape varieties and winemaking process before enjoying a tutored tasting of five Woolton wines, including still, sparkling, and pet nat styles, under the Barn window. Tickets are £20pp.

Magic & Marvels, The Malthouse Theatre, Sun 20 April

Acclaimed magician and circus performer Michael Jordan brings his one-man show Magic & Marvels to the stage. Fresh from Blackpool Tower Circus and the International Festival de Magie, Michael blends mesmerising illusions with daring stunts and world-class juggling. With a seamless mix of magic and showmanship, this is an afternoon of pure spectacle, designed to captivate audiences of all ages.

23 – 30 APRIL

Pottery Hand-Building, The Nuttery in Ryarsh, Weds 23 April

Join this delightful relaxed two-hour session of pottery hand-building, Michelle Hubchen founder of Nature’s Goods. Perfect for beginners or those returning to pottery, this workshop guides you through creating your own piece with stoneware clay, which will be glazed, fired, and ready for collection in 3-4 weeks. Enjoy a therapeutic, hands-on experience with hot drinks and snacks provided. £45pp.

NT Connections Festival, The Gulbenkian Canterbury, Weds 23 – Sun 27 April

The National Theatre Connections Festival returns this April, bringing together youth theatre groups from across the UK to stage new plays written for young performers and audiences. As part of this, Gulbenkian Young Company will take to the stage alongside school and youth groups, performing works by some of the country’s most exciting playwrights. Perfect if you have a young tween or teen interested in theatre. See the full line-up here.

Angela Barnes: Angst, The Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone, Thurs 24 April

If you’re looking for a good giggle, get to The Hazlitt Theatre this month to see one of the UK’s finest comedians, Angela Barnes. Star of Mock The Week and Live at the Apollo, Angela takes the stage with her new show. A self-confessed worrier, enjoy an evening of hilarious stories filled with failures, a touch of German, and plenty of jokes.

Celebration Dinner, The Dog at Wingham, Thurs 24 April

The Dog Wingham hosts an exclusive five-course celebration dinner introducing Charlie Kendall-Smith, showcasing a refined menu with expertly paired wines. Dishes include BBQ short rib with wasabi remoulade, hand-dived scallop with lardo, and Marmite-glazed Iberico pork fillet with smoked clotted cream mash, finishing with treacle tart and bourbon butter. Priced at £65pp, with a £45 wine pairing option, this is an evening of exceptional dining in an intimate setting.

April Garden Tour, Yotes Court, Fri 25 April

Discover the stunning garden at Yotes Court, designed and relandscaped by Chelsea Best-In-Show Winner Tom Stuart-Smith. Join this guided tour led by an expert staff member, offering deep insight into this remarkable landscape, including the vineyard, orchard, and wildflower meadow. The tour, lasting around 2 hours, starts at 10:30am and costs £40pp. Following the tour, why not enjoy a light lunch at Yotes Court Vineyard?

Late Disgorged Vertical Tasting and Lunch, Gusbourne, Sat 26 April

Gusbourne you to an exclusive Late Disgorged Vertical Tasting and lunch, featuring some of their most complex and fascinating wines. These special vintages have been aged on lees for nearly a decade, developing unique depth and complexity. The day includes a tutored masterclass, where you can explore the evolving characteristics of these wines, followed by a three-course seasonal menu paired with carefully selected wines. Priced at £135pp, this event offers an exceptional opportunity to savour the artistry behind Gusbourne’s most celebrated bottles.

Picture Book Drawalong, EM Forster Theatre, Sat 26 April

Join beloved children’s illustrator Nick Sharratt for a fun-filled Picture Book Drawalong. Perfect for ages 4 and up, this interactive event invites budding artists to sketch along as Nick shares drawing tips, creates favourite characters like Tracy Beaker and Timothy Pope, and sparks imaginations with his signature style. With nearly 300 books to his name, including You Choose and Shark in the Park, Nick’s work has brought stories to life for generations. Don’t forget to bring your pencils and paper.

Nightingale Experience, Green Farm, Sat 26 April

Green Farm is back with for another year with this unique outdoor dining experience, set in its beautiful woodlands. The evening begins with a welcome drink around the campfire, followed by a rustic yet refined two-course dinner showcasing the farm’s exceptional produce. As night falls, guests will embark on a guided tour to hear the enchanting song of the nightingales, who return each spring to the area. This exclusive event, priced at £75pp includes all proceeds going to the Pearce Coggan Foundation for nature conservation. The evening will also feature live music from Matt & Helen Dowle. This is a fully outdoor experience, so wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the forest terrain.

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