With winter approaching fast, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in towns and cities across the region. From Margate to Folkestone, and Canterbury to Rye, the southeast is abundant with festive events for all ages – many of which start in November and extend all the way up until Christmas.
Here we’ve rounded up the best of Kent & Sussex seasonal events in 2024 to mark in your calendar; from artisan markets to Christmas lights, there are plenty of opportunities to get in the festive spirit in the run-up to the 25th.
Folkestone Harbour’s Festive Marketplace (15th November – 24th December)
Make your way to the Kent coast for a festive shopping experience at Folkestone Harbour’s popular Festive Marketplace, which runs all the way up to Christmas Eve. Open every Friday from 4pm to 8pm, and weekends from 11am to 6pm, this charming market offers a perfect place to find unique holiday gifts.
Scattered throughout the harbour’s fisherman huts, the market will be filled with stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and one-of-a-kind gift ideas. Whether you’re looking for artisanal treasures or seasonal delights, there’s something for everyone, all under twinkling festive lights with a Christmas tree at the heart of it all. In addition to an array of festive stalls, the market offers free classic holiday films on the Big Screen, as well as the return of the popular Harbour Grotto, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
Where to stay:
The View at Shoreline (sleeps 4)
Shoreline Beach House (sleeps 8)
Abbots Cliff House (sleeps 10)
Christmas at Hever Castle (22nd November – 1st January)
Sparkles shimmer on the lake at Hever Castle this Christmas, as its 125-acre grounds come alive with magical Christmas illuminations. Warm up with a hot drink as you stroll along the castle’s Christmas Trail through the enchanted forest, or head indoors to enjoy the crackling fires inside the castle. For even more festive cheer, there’ll also be traditional fairground rides like the big wheel and carousel, and – for little ones – the option to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Where to stay:
Bushes Oast (sleeps 5)
Canterbury Christmas Market (15th November – 24th December)
Immerse yourself in a world of festive cheer at Canterbury Christmas Market, one of the largest in the region with lots of unique experiences. Alongside a seasonal market of handcrafted goods, gifts, and treats, there’ll be live performances of classic carols and holiday songs to offer a soundtrack to your Christmas shopping. And for the first time in over 150 years, part of the market will be hosted inside the grounds of the Cathedral.
At the Whitefriars Shopping centre Santa makes an appearance from 30th November, with little ones invited along to Breakfast with Santa where they’ll find Christmas craft activities. There’s even something for your four-legged friends with Santa Paws, where dogs can have their photos taken with Santa and enjoy ‘puppuccinos’ and a treat.
For something a little more interactive, there’s also the Lapland and Dash’s Toy Workshop Rescue, where guests can jump into the world of Father Christmas through fun VR experiences and rides.
Where to stay:
The Linen House (sleeps 4)
Honeywood Lodge (sleeps 8)
Faversham Artisan Crafts & Gift Market (23rd & 24th November; 8th, 14th & 15th December)
If there’s to be only one Christmas market on your roster this winter, let it be Faversham’s. Home to artisans and independent boutiques, the town is the natural choice for a Christmas crafts & gifts market, with dozens of Kent’s most gifted creatives gathering to the Alexander Centre to showcase their talents.
From jewellery and artwork to homewares and toiletries, Faversham has it all – plus a cosy pop-up tearoom with delicious tea, cakes, and pastries to help fuel your shopping spree. Even better, the market is indoors – meaning you’re able to pick up some gifts without getting too cold or wet.
Where to stay:
The Kennels (sleeps 4)
The Old Post Office (sleeps 10)
Christmas World at Dreamland, Margate (Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th, Friday 20th, Saturday 21st, Sunday 22nd & Monday 23rd December)
Located just a short walk from Margate railway station, Christmas World
offers a host of activities and entertainment this December. Young ones, ten and under, will love Dreamland’s magical grotto experiences, opportunities for ‘snowball’ fights, and sleigh ride, and there’s plenty of food, drinks, and shopping opportunities at the winter stalls for grown-ups.
Where to stay:
Margate Beach House (sleeps 8)
Christmas in Tenterden (22nd – 24th November)
Christmas is coming to Tenterden between the 22nd and 24th November, commencing with the town’s Christmas tree light switch on. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect stocking fillers or craving some delicious festive treats, Tenterden’s Christmas market has something for everyone. With over 50 stalls, you’ll find a fantastic range of goodies, from international street food and artisan grocery delights to handcrafted arts and crafts, clothing, jewellery, and accessories. Look forward to soaking up the festive spirit with live music, street performers, sparkling lights, and – of course – the centrepiece Christmas tree.
Where to stay:
McCann’s:
The Hop Farm (sleeps 10)
Challenger (sleeps 3)
The Pantiles Christmas Markets, Tunbridge Wells (15th November – 24th December)
Step into a magical wonderland at The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells this winter. Every Thursday to Sunday throughout late November and December, 10am to 7pm, the historic area transforms into a festive haven, featuring charming Christmas stalls, live musicians, choirs and theatre, and – of course – the twinkling Christmas tree. Don’t miss the grand lights switch-on at the start of the season’s celebrations, and make unforgettable memories with your little ones by taking them to meet Santa at his grotto. The Pantiles’ beautifully decorated bandstand adds an extra touch of magic to the festive atmosphere.
Where to stay:
Dairy Barn (sleeps 2)
Cart Lodge (sleeps 4)
Winterland, Bluewater (9th November 2024 – 12th January 2025)
Experience Winterland at Bluewater Shopping Centre, and you’ll find a whole host of rides, games, and attractions to entertain the whole family – a fantastic addition to your standard Christmas shopping! From 9th November all the way to 12th January 2025, visitors can enjoy winter bumper cars, a Super Mario slide, jumping frogs, a Christmas carousel, jet plane rides, and a classic waltzer. After the excitement dies down, why not pause to indulge in Winterland’s mouth-watering treats, including hearty Yorkshire pudding wraps, churros, and delicious hot chocolate.
Where to stay:
The Folly (sleeps 10)
Christmas in Rye (Saturday 7th December)
Mark your calendar for Saturday 7th December and pay a visit to the beautiful medieval town of Rye, where the town lights up with festive activities. Alongside a Santa’s Grotto and fairground attractions, there’ll also be horse-and-cart rides, as well as High Street races, carol singing, and a Christmas procession led by Father Christmas himself. To top off a brilliant family day out, discover special treats as you browse Rye’s boutiques to further spark your festive spirit.
Where to stay:
The Grain Store (sleeps 2)
The Dunes (sleeps 6)
If you’re planning to extend your stay in Kent or Sussex this festive season, Bloom Stays has you covered. Check out our latest availability for holiday homes in Kent & Sussex here.
