10 Good reasons to visit Tunbridge Wells

Above: The Chalybeate Spring, Tunbridge Wells

Above: The clock outside Payne and Son's jewellers, Tunbridge Wells HIgh Street

Above: Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells

1. The Pantiles

Visitors to this historic town can still take the water at the Chalybeate spring on the Pantiles – the reason for Tunbridge Wells’ prosperity after Dudley Lord North is reputed to have discovered the curative effects of the spring’s waters 400 years ago. The town was built on the affluence this attraction brought, and it still pulls the crowds today. The Pantiles is a historically significant area which has changed little since its heyday in the 1700s, and features an array of cafés, restaurants and shops crammed into the Upper Walk – you never know quite what you’ll find here.

2. The Heritage Trail

In celebration of Tunbridge Wells’ 400th anniversary, a heritage trail incorporating the homes and work places of people who played an important role in the development of the town has been mapped out. Follow the trail a series of claret-coloured plaques featuring the stories behind the people, their work and influences.

3. Dunorlan Park

Recently re-developed, Dunorlan Park offers a peaceful, green sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Having undergone a £2.8 million restoration in 2004, the park has been returned to its Victorian glory when it formed part of the grounds of Yorkshire millionaire Henry Reed’s estate. Visitors can enjoy a cuppa in the café, a boat ride from the innovative new boathouse or walk the extensive meadowland. For those into their history, there is the Pulhamite Grecian temple, fountain and cascade featuring a terracotta statue of Hebe.

4. The Victoria Place

The Royal Victoria Place was opened in 1992 by Princess Diana and, despite criticism from locals, marked an important development for the town. Tunbridge Wells has always successfully blended the old with the new, and this shopping centre offers more than 100 shops and restaurants, with a crèche and ample car parking, amazingly without impacting on the town’s historic past.

5. Architecture

In the early 1800s, Tunbridge Wells became a hugely desirable place to live – to that end, a great deal of building work was undertaken to the north of the spa including large villas and family houses, many of them by architect Decimus Burton. Other notable examples of Burton’s work include Trinity Church (now a theatre and arts centre, see below), Calverley Place and his additions to Hotel Du Vin. Fine examples of both Victorian and Georgian architecture survive today, and are well worth a look.

6. Antiques

Whether you’re just browsing or buying, Tunbridge Wells is a paradise for antique lovers. More than 35 antique shops are scattered across the town, with fairs and regular auctions held in the area. A guide to antique shopping in the town is available from the tourist information centre in the Pantiles.

7. Library and Museum

The present museum can trace its foundation back to the back to the summer of 1885 when one George Abbott began to arrange displays in the Scientific Society’s rooms at the Pantiles. The museum today contains dolls, toys, games, Tunbridge Ware, more than 28,000 natural history specimens and one of the largest costume and textile collections in the south east. It also includes local art and detailed information on the town’s social history.

8. Arts and Entertainment

Tunbridge Wells has a long history of being a thriving arts and entertainment community – from independent art galleries in the Pantiles to world-class theatre productions at Trinity, there’s something here to suit every taste. A host of venues across the town provide a wide variety of entertainment opportunities - with up and coming bands at the Forum and big names at the Assembly Hall, you won’t be at a loss for something to do.

9. The High Street and Chapel Place

The Old High Street has much to offer both the light and committed shopper: original Victorian shop fronts hide modern boutiques and cafés, and the High Street is home to the Queen’s very own jeweller, Harry Collins. Designer clothing shops fight for sought-after space with home furnishing stores and the odd café and restaurant for refreshment.

10. Eating out

There is no shortage of places to eat out in Tunbridge Wells – a world of cuisine from Italian pizza places to Japanese Sushi bars means there is something to suit all tastes. Naturally, given that this is the Garden of England, local produce features heavily on the menus of local pubs and restaurants and places from the Pantiles right up to the top of town, and you’ll rarely be disappointed wherever you decide to eat.

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