Local businesses in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, are preparing for a busy year as the full 2026 market schedule for the historic town centre has been confirmed. After the traditional January hiatus, the regular events will start again in mid-February to help residents support independent shops and local makers.
The first event of the year is set for 14–15 February 2026. According to The Pantiles Bandstand Events Company, markets will be held at The Pantiles on the first and third weekends of each month. These events usually feature around 40–50 rotating stalls selling items such as handmade crafts, local food, and artisan gifts.
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has also authorised monthly markets for the Calverley Precinct on the last Sunday of each month. This comes as the council begins a roughly £2 million revamp to turn the precinct into an area to be known as Calverley Walk. New plans for the town centre show how the area is being updated, but organisers have secured ‘Sunday Special’ trading consents so that market stalls can still operate while the work is under way.
The Association of Pantiles Traders says these markets are vital for the more than 70 independent businesses that call the area home. The stalls bring more people into the lower part of the town, providing a different experience compared with large indoor shopping centres. The events are designed to keep the town centre vibrant and give local entrepreneurs a place to meet their customers.
Management firm Targetfollow, which looks after the historic colonnade, noted that the markets continue a 400-year-old tradition of trading in the area. This year’s programme will run until December 2026, including several themed festivals and seasonal markets alongside the regular weekend dates.
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