It's no secret that for the past decade and particularly since the pandemic, we've turned to online shopping for convenience. While I am certainly someone who shops online (perhaps more than I should), it's also very clear that this is having a devastating effect on smaller local businesses and our high streets. Just walking down Tonbridge high street, I can count 17 empty shops to let. And a lot of the offerings left tend to be very similar. There are a lot of charity shops, coffee shops, barbers, estate agents, pound shops, and repeat. It seems that nothing else has much of a chance against online.
So in order to combat my own bad habits, I’ve been testing out a card that many will be very familiar with. The TN Card has been a game-changer for connecting locals with our wonderful businesses in Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, and the surrounding villages. Whether you're a seasoned local or new to the area, the TN Card offers a delightful way to explore and support our community while enjoying exclusive perks.
What is the TN Card?
The TN Card is more than just a loyalty card; it’s a key to unlocking a treasure trove of local rewards. By signing up, you are supporting a small business and a charity (10% of each membership goes to West Kent Mind) and you also enjoy exclusive deals, discounts, and special offers at a myriad of participating businesses. From familiar favourites to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. Imagine getting rewarded just for shopping locally—sounds fantastic, right?
Family-Friendly Fun
As a family lifestyle blogger, my focus naturally leans towards activities and events that are fun for the whole family. The TN Card doesn’t disappoint! There are 63 different businesses offering child-friendly perks, making it a breeze to plan your next family outing. Some well-known favourites include:
Diggerland: Enjoy great discounts on a day out at this wacky construction-themed park.
Little Street: Perfect for imaginative play in a miniature town.
Go Ape: Get a discount on thrilling treetop adventures.
Bewl Water: Take advantage of special offers for a day by the water.
Clip n Climb: Scale new heights with exclusive deals.
Spa Valley Railway: Board the train with a free child's ticket.
Recre8 holiday clubs: Get discounts on engaging and fun holiday activities for the kids.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The TN Card has introduced me to new spots like Jumping Juniors in Crowborough for free play and messy play sessions, and charming places like Bubba & Me and Claudia’s Place in Tunbridge Wells.
Beyond Activities
The TN Card is not just about outings and activities. It’s a gateway to discounts at popular shops and services, enhancing everyday living. Some of my favourite discoveries have included:
Whirligig: A toy shop filled with creative and educational toys.
Cook: Delicious ready-made meals for those busy days.
L'Occitane: Luxurious skincare and beauty products.
Little Wild Company: Beautiful, eco-friendly children’s wear.
Sankey's fishmongers: Fresh, high-quality seafood.
Specsavers: Essential eye-care services.
Zilch Zero Waste: Sustainable shopping made easy.
Emma Stokes Photography: Capture beautiful family moments with exclusive offers.
Krispy Kreme: Enjoy sweet treats with fantastic discounts.
Special Events and Community Perks
The TN Card also keeps you connected with the community through special member events, workshops, and an active Facebook group. Their newsletters are a fantastic way to get information, ensuring you’re always in the know about local happenings. One of the highlights of the year, for example, is the "bunny trail" during Easter, a super-fun way for families to explore Sevenoaks and win prizes.
Fun for the Whole Family
The TN Card isn’t just for the little ones, of course. There are fantastic offers for the whole family to enjoy. Some standout deals include:
Epic Life: Exciting and adventurous paddleboarding experiences for all ages.
Kingdom near Penshurst: Exclusive offers at this serene and picturesque venue.
Potterarti: Fun and pottery kits and parties.
Reuthe's Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks: Explore these enchanting gardens with special discounts.
Finch House: Enjoy delicious brunch meals and cakes.
Fuggles: A complimentary drink with your sandwich or hot dog.
Gaab Khao: Savour delicious Thai cuisine with exclusive discounts.
Supporting Local Businesses
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the TN Card is how it helps smaller independent businesses reach new customers. It’s a win-win for everyone: businesses get more foot traffic, and we get to enjoy a vibrant, thriving local economy. Exploring the extensive and lovingly created TN Card website has been a joy, revealing new gems at every click.
Join the Fun
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend giving the TN Card a try. It’s a delightful way to enhance your shopping experience, discover new local treasures, and support our community. Whether you’re planning a family day out or simply running errands, the TN Card adds a sprinkle of magic to everyday activities.
Join the TN Card here: https://www.thetncard.com/
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