insideKENT Magazine Issue 30 - September 2014 | Page 100

TOWNSPOTLIGHT
S P O T L I G H T

O N

Tunbridge Wells
ATTRACTING VISITORS FOR OVER 400 YEARS, THE HISTORIC SPA TOWN OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
OFFERS A VARIETY OF EXPERIENCES, BOTH OLD AND NEW. LOCATED JUST 30 MILES SOUTH OF
LONDON, THE AREA COMBINES HISTORY, CONTEMPORARY SHOPPING AND LEISURE TO TAKE THE
TITLE OF ONE OF KENT'S — NOT TO MENTION ENGLAND'S — FINEST DESTINATIONS.

Bayham Old Abbey — Set in grounds designed
by famous landscape gardener Humphry Repton,
the abbey's impressive ruins include much of the
13th-15th century church, chapter house and
14th century gatehouse.

The Pantiles — In the historical heart of Royal
Tunbridge Wells, the famous colonnaded walkway
is now home to antique shops and specialist
small boutiques, as well as the Pantiles Shopping
Arcade found in the old Corn Exchange building.

Dunorlan Park — Recently restored to its former
Victorian glory, Dunorlan is spacious and elegant,
with magnificent views to the Weald. A boating
lake and café are also on site.

history in brief

dining out

Calverley Grounds — Elegant, with a landscaped
park, Calverley Grounds boasts striking
ornamental gardens, sports facilities and a café.
Royal Tunbridge Wells has undeniably become
a landmark in Kent's history ever since the chance
discovery of the famed Chalybeate Spring by
young nobleman, Dudley Lord North, in 1606.
Its reputation as the place to see and be seen
amongst royalty and the aristocracy over the
years makes the history of Tunbridge Wells one
of the most colourful in England.
Soon after Lord North's discovery, word of the
purported health-giving properties of the spring
water spread, and visitors from London and afar
flocked to 'the Wells' to try the waters. Coffee
houses, lodgings, shops, taverns and gaming
houses soon sprang up in one continuous line
nearby, shortly joined by a covered colonnaded
walkway, which later became known as the
Pantiles.
Elsewhere, the town's historic past is reflected
in its architecture, from elegant Regency villas
and large Victorian houses — many designed by
Decimus Burton — to pretty clapboard cottages
surrounded by greenery, such as the 200-acre
Common located in the town centre.

Groombridge Place — Noted for its 17th century
formal walled gardens, quirky enchanted forest
and birds of prey, Groombridge captures the
imagination of young and old alike.
Spa Valley Railway — Take a steam train ride
through the beautiful Wealden countryside from
Tunbridge Wells to High Rocks, Groombridge
and Eridge.
Chalybeate
Spring —
Boasting a
colourful history,
the discovery of
the Chalybeate
Spring over 400
years ago
marked the
beginning of
Tunbridge Wells
– and is still
central to
the town today.

As recent as 2009, residents saw the 100th
anniversary of 'Royal' Tunbridge Wells — one of
few towns in England to be granted this title. And
today Royal Tunbridge Wells, or Tunbridge Wells
as it's more commonly branded, still maintains
much of its original charm and elegance for which
it has always been known, and loved.

things to do
Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery —
From kids' storytelling and guided walks, to
contemporary art exhibitions and the world's
largest collection of Tunbridge Ware, this free
attraction has something for everyone.

Trinity Theatre — Holding over 350 events and
welcoming more than 90,000 people through its
doors each year, the Trinity Theatre hosts an
impressive variety of acts including theatre, dance,
comedy and live music.

100

Thackeray's — A restaurant undoubtedly worthy
of its beautiful Grade II-listed building, Richard
Phillips, chef and co-proprietor of Thackeray's,
creates an intelligent modern French menu that
sparkles with flavour.
Don Giovanni Ristorante Italiano – Overflowing
with charm, this family-run wonder has received
rave reviews for its delicious 'proper' Italian dishes.
Giggling Squid — If you enjoy the simple, rustic,
fresh delicacies of Thailand, this restaurant's
chefs cook everything from scratch to create
their startling dishes.
Hotel Du Vin & Bistro – Located in a Grade-II
listed sandstone mansion, Hotel Du Vin offers
fine dining in addition to its luxurious rooms. In
fact, this elegant French bistro is one of our
favourite spots in Kent.
Chandelier Restaurant – Located in the popular
Spa Hotel, The Chandelie r Restaurant offers
classically based modern British cuisine to both
residents and non-residents.