A range of festive events will be taking place in Tunbridge Wells in the run up to Christmas.

The countdown to the seasonal celebrations features a campaign to promote the town as the leading place for all things Christmas.

Shoppers will be offered free parking across the borough to support late night shopping, which kicks off from Thursday, December 17 and ends Wednesday, December 23.

Visitors will be able to make a night of it with free parking available after 4pm every weekday leading up to the big day.

Council cabinet member with responsibility for economic development, tourism and leisure, Jane March, said: “The Christmas period is vital to all the town centre businesses. The council is delighted to support this initiative by offering free parking and adding to the town’s attractions with the ice rink.”

Santa will arrive at Royal Victoria Place on Thursday, November 19 to officially open his Festive Frozen Forest Grotto from 4.30pm.

The Christmas lights switch on will take place on the same day at 6pm.

Ice Skating in Calverley Grounds will be open from Friday, November 20 until Sunday, January, 3 January.

Royal Victoria Place will be hosting a special Black Friday Shopping Event on Friday, November 27 between 8am and 8pm.

The Christmas performance of Cinderella will open at the Assembly Hall Theatre on Friday, December 11 and run until Sunday, January 3.

On Thursday, December 17 Tunbridge Wells High Street will be hosting a special ‘Late Night Christmas Shopping Evening’ where many shops will be open until 9pm with special offers, discounts, refreshments and festive in-store activities.