insideKENT Magazine Issue 43 - October 2015 | Page 118

TOWNSPOTLIGHT
S P O T L I G H T

O N

tunbridge wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells (to give the town its full title) sits perfectly between the stresses and
strains of London and the refreshing, beautiful coast. One could almost say that Tunbridge
Wells is a crossroads, allowing you to make a choice as to whether you want city or seaside.
But, like many, we imagine you’ll probably want to stay exactly where you are; after all,
Tunbridge Wells has plenty to offer. BY LISAMARIE LAMB

The Pantiles

Groombridge Place

history in brief
When historians and archaeologists began to
explore Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding
areas, they discovered more than they had
expected to – evidence that Iron Age settlers had
farmed there, that the Wealdon iron industry had
its roots there (an iron forge was found under
Bayham Abbey), and that a Roman defensive
fort had been built there (on the site that is now
High Rocks) were all uncovered. It proved what
locals have always known: that Tunbridge Wells
was a very special, much loved, and highly prized
area in which to live.
Until 1606, however, Tunbridge Wells wasn’t set
apart from its neighbouring villages in the parish
of Speldhurst. What made it stand out was a
remarkable event that happened to Dudley, Lord
North (one of James I’s courtiers) who was in
Eridge on a hunting expedition, and to improve
his poor health.

What trophies he came home with from his
hunting we don’t know, but we do know that,
after taking a drink from a spring he found whilst
out walking, his health considerably improved.
He was so impressed that he invited a number
of his wealthy and well connected friends from
London to try it for themselves. By 1664, the
area was a thriving spa retreat with separate
houses for men and women, and a shelter over
the spring. Over the next fifteen years, businesses,
shops, cafés, and boarding houses sprung up
in the area, catering to the wealthy people who
travelled for many miles to take the health-giving
waters. And in 1787, new names were given to
the area – Mount Ephraim, Mount Pleasant,
Mount Sion, and of course, The Wells.

things to do
Groombridge Place
If you want adventure, fascinating literary
connections, and beautiful surroundings,

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The Pantiles 1895

Groombridge Place is ideal for you. Discover the
beautiful award-winning gardens and the forest
with its giant swings, zip wires, and Crusoe’s
World, and see where Pride and Prejudice was
filmed.
The Pantiles
The Pantiles – Tunbridge Wells’ lovely old
shopping area – offers boutique stores,
independent shops, specialist sellers, and all of
it is high quality and exquisite. Try out the gorgeous
cafés, or enjoy the art galleries. Allow yourself to
get lost in time.
Assembly Hall Theatre
With the capacity to seat just over 1,000 people,
The Assembly Hall Theatre has long been the
central place for people to come together, enjoy
music, drama, dance, and much more (including
some fascinating talks). Highlights for October
include Ben Fogle, Carmen, The Matt Monroe
Story, and The Drifters.