The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show, a local family event, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this spring.
Taking place over the first May bank holiday weekend, 29th April – 1st May 2023 at Penshurst Place near Tonbridge, Kent, The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show celebrates the very best in shopping for handmade crafts and gifts for the home and garden along with delicious food and family entertainment.
The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show is a long-standing gem in the South East of England having been in business for four decades. The show’s success can be attributed to staying true to its roots and bringing together the most interesting crafts both locally and from across the country.
Steve Mitchell Event Director for The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show and ICHF Events said: “We are delighted to be returning to the stunning location of Penshurst Place for the Weald of Kent Country Craft Show’s 40th year. The show’s 40th anniversary serves as a testament to its longevity, success, and continued relevance to artisans and art lovers alike. Following the success of last year’s event, we are pleased to be welcoming back long-standing exhibitors aswell as some new independent traders. Some of our wonderful stall holders including The Clogmaker and artist Peter Hodson, have been exhibiting with us since the very beginning!”
This event is a celebration of Kent’s countryside heritage, where visitors come to appreciate the unique beauty of handcrafted items. Over the years, the show has become one of the most popular events in Kent, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The longevity of the Weald of Kent Country Craft Show is a testament to the dedication and passion shown by the team in organising an event that brings together the very best in crafts art and design offering an unforgettable experience to all its visitors, year after year.
Steve added “This event is a must visit show for the first of many bank holidays we are celebrating during May this year. It’s a lovely way to kick-start the spring season with artisan shopping, delicious food, activities, demos and workshops to keep the whole family entertained. Visitors to the show can also make a real day of it and explore the historic Penshurst House and enjoy its breath-taking gardens with ticket upgrade. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
The show offers a unique shopping experience with over 150 UK based independent, small businesses showcasing their handmade, curated and unique products. From handcrafted jewellery and accessories, clothing and fashion, home and living decor and garden sculptures to art and photography and a large food and drink hall offering sweet and savoury delights, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Not just shopping, this popular family event hosts an array of entertainment and activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy axe throwing, laser clay pigeon shooting, a falconry display, live craft demonstrations plus vintage swing boats and a carousel for the little ones. Children with parents visiting the Weald of Kent Country Craft Show can also gain free entry to the Penshurst Place Adventure Playground featuring a commando trail, a giant slide, swings, toddler area and zip line. There’s also live mellow acoustic music performances from talented cover musicians.
Popular workshops will also be returning including marbling, chocolate making and new for 2023 – soy candle making, and all offer a fantastic hands-on experience for visitors to try something new or perfect an existing skill.
Visitors can save 20% when purchasing tickets online before 23rd April 2023. Children under the age of 16 years are free of charge. Dogs are welcome (except in the food hall, falconry display area and children’s play area) and there’s free parking!
Steve added: “Despite tough economic times, the Weald of Kent Country Craft show has been in business for an impressive 40 years. Like any outdoor event it has seen its fair share of challenges over the years but through it all has remained popular and successful attracting crowds of loyal visitors year after year. The secret lies in the quality of crafts on display and the warm and friendly atmosphere that greets every visitor that will remain for years to come.”
