Home / Five Heart of Kent Towns... / A Guide to Royal Tunbridge Wells

A Guide to Royal Tunbridge Wells

The historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells has been welcoming visitors for over 400 years, ever since the chance discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606 by Dudley, Lord North. A magnet for the aristocracy and members of the Georgian royal family, Tunbridge Wells became one of the most fashionable destinations of the 18th century. Much of the elegance and atmosphere of this bygone era remains, and the Royal Tunbridge Wells of today is bustling and vibrant with a style all its own.

The famous Chalybeate Spring on the Pantiles still flows and it is possible to try the waters in the summer months just as the Georgians did, served by a costumed 'dipper'. The Pantiles, the famous colonnaded walkway, where the gentry once promenaded, is now home to a wonderful selection of high quality boutiques, antiques shops, bars and cafes.

Guided Walking Tours of the Pantiles and old High Street areas take place every Thursday and Saturday morning (March to December) and are a wonderful way to learn more about the town's colourful history. Conducted by Tourist Board accredited Blue Badge Guides, the tours start from the Tourist Information Centre at 11.30am and last for one hour. Tickets and further details are available from the Royal Tunbridge Wells Tourist Information Centre.

Shopping is a major attraction of Royal Tunbridge Wells. With over 35 antiques shops in and around the town, a wide range of high street names, Royal Victoria Place - a modern undercover shopping centre with over 100 retail names, and an exceptional selection of small, independent shops, every shopper has plenty to occupy them.

Head for the old High Street and Chapel Place for designer clothes, jewellery, interior design specialists, galleries, gift shops and fine restaurants. The village atmosphere makes shopping in this area a unique and highly enjoyable experience.

The Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery houses the world's most extensive collection of Tunbridge ware - specialist wooden marquetry particular to Tunbridge Wells in the 18th and 19th centuries - as well as fascinating collections of costumes, toys and local history.

For further information on Royal Tunbridge Wells, visit www.visittunbridgewells.com, or contact the Royal Tunbridge Wells Tourist Information Centre.

More ideas Out and About in Tunbridge Wells

Town Map

Need a printer-friendly map? Click on the link below to download a PDF map.
[click here]

Places to stay

For places to stay in the area, please visit our accommodation section by clicking the link below.
[click here]