Best family days out in Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells

Family Days to Remember: Sevenoaks & Tunbridge Wells

Some of the most meaningful family days out: space to breathe, moments of connection, and places that inspire. Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells offer exactly that: a beautiful mix of open landscapes, gentle history, and charming town spaces where memories (and photographs) naturally unfold.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed weekend outing or simply craving inspiration for time well spent together, these are some of my favourite family-friendly spots — and places I know well, both personally and professionally.

🦌 Knole Park: Space, Story & Timeless Backdrops

Knole Park is one of those rare places that feels expansive and intimate at the same time. With its sweeping parkland, ancient trees and free-roaming deer, it offers a sense of calm that instantly slows everyone down — children included.

It’s also an incredibly special place for family photographs. The scale of the landscape, the soft light filtering through the trees, and the way children naturally explore here creates images that feel honest and unforced. I’ve photographed many families at Knole Park over the years, and every session is different — shaped by the season, the light, and the unique rhythm of each family.

From quiet walks to spontaneous races across the grass, Knole allows families to simply be together — which is always where the most meaningful photographs begin.

🌸 Emmetts Garden: Curious Minds & Colourful Moments

Perched high on the Kentish Weald, Emmetts Garden is a joy for families who love to wander. Its winding paths, seasonal blooms and natural play areas invite curiosity and gentle adventure.

From a photography perspective, the garden offers beautiful layers — soft florals, textured greenery and open views that work wonderfully for relaxed family portraits. It’s a place where children can explore freely while parents enjoy moments of pause, making it ideal for families who want a blend of play and connection.

🏡 Chartwell: History, Imagination & Family Stories

Chartwell is more than a historic house — it’s a place where stories come alive. Children are drawn to the treehouse, play areas and hidden corners, while adults appreciate the sense of heritage and creativity woven throughout the grounds.

For families, it offers a lovely balance of structure and freedom. Walks feel purposeful without being rigid, and there are plenty of natural moments for conversation, laughter and shared discovery — all of which translate beautifully into photographs that feel narrative-led rather than posed.

🌳 Calverley Park: Easygoing Green Space in the Heart of Town

Calverley Park is perfect for families who want simplicity. Centrally located, calm and open, it’s ideal for an unhurried afternoon — a picnic on the grass, a gentle wander, or a moment of rest between town adventures.

Its clean lines and leafy surroundings make it a subtle but lovely setting for relaxed family photos, especially for families who prefer an understated, everyday feel to their memories.

🍃 The Pantiles: Character, Connection & Little Details

The Pantiles bring a different kind of energy — historic architecture, independent shops, cafés and the gentle hum of town life. It’s a wonderful place to slow down together after a morning outdoors.

From a visual point of view, the colonnades, textures and light here offer beautiful opportunities for storytelling photographs — hands held, shared laughter, small moments that capture the personality of your family rather than a perfect pose.

Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells are rich with places that allow families to connect naturally.

If you’d ever like guidance on choosing the right location for your own family photographs, I’m always happy to help — especially in places like Knole Park, which I have done countless beautiful family photography shoots. Just ask me for more details.