Making our way through the tumbling countryside of Kent, we took a day trip out to the historical spa town of Tunbridge Wells to see what was on offer. Thirty miles south of London, Tunbridge Wells beholds a wealth of history to be explored. Amongst the rich iconic architecture lays the electric mix of independent boutiques, up-and-coming restaurants and charming teashops. Whether you fancy a relaxing short break or a day out, Tunbridge Wells has a host of adventures waiting to be explored…
CAVERLEY GROUNDS
A hop, skip and a jump from the centre of town are the beautiful gardens of Caverley Grounds. The perfect spot for a summer picnic, be sure to admire the charming ornamental gardens fluttering with butterflies and wildlife, or visit the bandstand for a cup of tea and home-made lemon cake. Staying true to the park’s Victorian origins, why not take up a game of croquet on the meadow lawn?
TUNBRIDGE WELLS MUSEUM
Housing its very own museum, jam-packed full of local history and showcasing the distinctive Tunbridge Ware woodwork that was a specialty of the area, the Tunbridge Wells Museum is the perfect way to brush up on the history of the area. With top exhibitions passing through all year around and a wide collection of natural history collected from the town in the Victorian era, don’t miss the exciting line-up of kids events taking place across the summer!
THE PANTILES
The most iconic spot in Tunbridge Wells is the elegant Pantiles cobbled walkway, made famous by the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606. Soon becoming the playground of royalty and aristocracy, people flocked from far and wide to sample the iron rich spring water, which boasted many health-boosting properties. As the Pantiles became the new place to be seen, an array of coffee houses, taverns and shops joined the busy walkway.
We took a stroll along the Pantiles walkway which still plays host to a variety of specialist shops, restaurants and cafes. Keeping tradition alive, a Dipper is still situated on the north of the Pantiles to serve a glass of the famed spring water to those who fancy a sip of good health!
The produce on display at the tasty Gastronomia restaurant.
Not to be missed are the fortnightly farmers markets held on a Saturday, or the evening jazz bands taking their place on the bandstand ready to serenade diners!
JULIET’S
Whether you are after a scrummy weekend brekkie (fruit muesli or scrambled eggs) over the morning paper or a hunky slice of homemade cake, Juliet’s is just the pit stop to refuel. Juliet’s Mediterranean salad plates are really rather special too. To experience the magic click here to watch their video.
LAURA ASHLEY TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Of course it would be rude for us not to pop along to the Laura Ashley store in Tunbridge Wells, welcomed by the lovely manager Christine and her team, we fell in love with the elegant architecture of the store. Check out the beautiful winding staircase below…
Can we have one of these in our house please?
Inspiring Coastal display.
Paisley Print Panelled Shift Dress
New A/W Fashion Collections have now hit the store!
Pick a cushion, any cushion!
DUNORLAN PARK
A short distance out of the main town lays Dunorlan Park, formerly the gardens of a grand mansion, you can experience the beauty of the Tunbridge Well’s charming country side. Wander along the pathways spotting the original ground features such as the grecian temple, or should you fancy, why not head on over to the boathouse and go out on a scenic tour of the lake!
Other Tunbridge Wells highlights:
- Spa Valley Railway
- Scotney Castle
- Bayham Old Abbey
We hope you enjoyed our round up of top places to visit in Tunbridge Wells, we throughly enjoyed our visit and plan on returning to their famed farmers markets on a Saturday!
Don’t forget to pop in and see the lovely ladies at the Laura Ashley store in Tunbridge Wells and see their amazing staircase and new season collections for yourself.