Royal Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells is a spa town, the only one in the South East of England, with a rich history and royal heritage. Wander along The Pantiles, home to a variety of independent shops, and visit the spring that led to the existence of the town. Or, take a trip on a steam train on the Spa Valley Railway. There's also plenty of places to get walking or cycling in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that surrounds the town.
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- Tunbridge Wells
Itinerary details
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Royal Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells is a spa town, the only one in the South East of England, with a rich history and royal heritage. Wander along The Pantiles, home to a variety of independent shops, and visit the spring that led to the existence of the town. Or, take a trip on a steam train on the Spa Valley Railway. There's also plenty of places to get walking or cycling in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that surrounds the town.

Tunbridge Wells Walking & Cycling Routes
Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk: Pass through the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and surrounding villages on this circular walk around Tunbridge Wells. The route can be broken down into four shorter circular routes if you don’t want to take on the challenge of the full 27.5-mile (44.3km) trail.
Alternatively, walk parts of the High Weald Landscape Trail to the south of Tunbridge Wells between Groombridge and Pembury.
For keen cyclists, why not cycle part (or all!) of the Wealden Cycle Trail which runs between Tunbridge Wells and Ashford (passing Bedgebury on the way).
Tunbridge Wells Circular WalkHigh Weald Landscape TrailWealden Cycle Trail
The Pantiles
Promenade along the historic Georgian colonnaded walkway and enjoy the over 70 cafes, bars, restaurants and independent shops. There’s also a number of events held regularly including markets and live music on the bandstand.
Accessibility: Mostly accessible for wheelchair users with a ramp connecting the upper and lower walk | Dogs: Dogs are welcome
The Pantiles
Chalybeate Spring
See the natural spring, who’s discovery led to the existence of Tunbridge Wells. The mineral-rich water spring water contains exceptionally high levels of Iron, Magnesium, Zinc and Calcium.
Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchair users, located by The Pantiles | Dogs: Dogs are allowed
Chalybeate Spring
Groombridge Farm Shop
Enjoy locally produced food from the farm and over 50 neighbouring suppliers in Kent and Sussex. From fresh fruit and veg to the deli and bakery, there’s always some delicious seasonal produce or homemade treat for you to try.
Groombridge Farm Shop
Spa Valley Railway
Hop aboard a steam train on the Spa Valley Railway line between Tunbridge Wells and Eridge. Enjoy a trip through the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; you can even treat yourself to a delicious meal or afternoon tea while onboard!
Accessibility: There is a fully accessible train coach for wheelchair users but it must be pre-booked | Dogs: Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be on leads | Bicycles: Bikes can be accommodated
Spa Valley Railway
Aspens
Meet the animals including rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, donkeys, ponies, sheep, pigs, goats, emus, and alpacas. You can also enjoy a meal or treat at The Bluebell Cafe while the children explore the woodland play area.
There is no entrance fee but donations to support the charity’s work are welcome.
Dogs: Well-behaved dogs are allowed in the outside areas but they must be on leads
Aspens
Birchden Vineyard
Head on a vineyard tour, wine tasting or picnic. Alternatively, join one of the many unique events and workshops available or enjoy some local produce at the Blackbird Cafe.
Accessibility: The tour of the vineyard involves uneven ground | Dogs: Dogs are welcome
Birchden Vineyard
UK Owl and Raptor Centre
Get up close and personal with owls and birds of prey such as hawks, buzzards and eagles. Learn to handle and fly different species while discovering more about each of the animals.
Directions: Walk a section of the Tunbridge Wells Circular trail (TWC Speldhurst circular walk) from the town centre to Groombridge Place.
Accessibility: Accessible toilets are available, contact for queries over accessibility | Dogs: Dogs are not allowed
UK Owl and Raptor CentreTunbridge Wells Circular Walk
Wildwood Vineyard
Take a tour of the family-owned boutique English Vineyard and try a guided tasting of three still wines. You can also add a cheese platter to accompany the wine tasting.
Directions: Buses run to Eridge Forstal from Eridge train station and Tunbridge Wells train station (Brighton & Hove Buses Regency 29 service between Tunbridge Wells & Heathfield and Brighton), then walk 400m down the bridle path from the layby.
Accessibility: The ground is uneven and access is via a public bridle path
Wildwood Vineyard
Tunbridge Wells Common
Located in the centre of town, next to The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells Common is famous for its sandstone outcrops. Climb onto Wellington Rocks, have a picnic in the open grassland or wander around the woodland.
Accessibility: There are hard-surfaced paths, including a 1.4km stile-free route | Dogs: Dogs are allowed
Tunbridge Wells CommonTunbridge Wells Common Stile-free Trail
Calverley Park
Walk through this landscaped park and ornamental gardens, close to Tunbridge Wells train station. Have a picnic on the grass, pause for a drink from the cafe or enjoy the sports facilities.
Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchair users with hard-surfaced paths | Dogs: Dogs are allowed
Calverley Park
Dunorlan Park
Once the gardens of a mansion, Dunorlan Park boasts a variety of things to see including a Chalybeate Spring, Grecian temple and water garden.
There’s also plenty to do besides admire the grounds, with a natural adventure play area, cafe and, in the summer, boating which takes place on the lake.
Accessibility: There are hard-surfaced paths, including a 2.6km stile-free route | Dogs: Dogs are allowed
Dunorlan ParkDunorlan Park Stile-free Trail
Grosvenor & Hilbert Park
Comprised of two adjacent recreation grounds, Grosvenor & Hilbert Park provides plenty of sports facilities including a junior cycling track, football pitches and a skate park.
There’s also a wetland area with boardwalk where you can go pond dipping, as well as a lake and dripping wells.
Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchair users with hard-surfaced paths | Dogs: Dogs are allowed
Grosvenor Recreation GroundHilbert Recreation Ground
High Rocks
Explore the sandstone rocks and surrounding woodland, now a National Monument. Walk around the base and through narrow passages, or head onto the rocks and enjoy the view from above, crossing a series of wooden bridges to get from rock to rock.
Please check opening days before travelling as it may be closed for events.
Directions: Walk a section of the Tunbridge Wells Circular trail (TWC Speldhurst circular walk) from the town centre to High Rocks.
Accessibility: Not accessible for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain, narrow passages and steps | Dogs: Dogs are not allowed
High RocksTunbridge Wells Circular Walk
Birchden Wood & Harrison’s Rocks
Take a walk through the broadleaf woodland and see the impressive sandstone outcrop of Harrison’s Rocks.
For keen rock climbers, Harrison’s Rocks offer a range of short climbs for all abilities.
Accessibility: There are 1.5km of easy access trails | Dogs: Dogs allowed but must be on leads near climbing areas
Birchden WoodHarrison's RocksClimbing Harrison's Rocks: Code of PracticeTravel
Train – Tunbridge Wells Train Station is located in the centre of town and is within walking distance of the Pantiles.
Bus – Arriva runs bus services to and from Tunbridge Wells.
Cycle Parking – There are several cycle parking stands in the town centre including at Tunbridge Wells Train Station.
Remember you can take your bike on any Southeastern train unless the train arrives or departs London during peak hours – but you can take a fold up bike anytime.
Plan your journeys in Tunbridge Wells town centre using the Tunbridge Wells Active Travel Town Map.
Opening Times & Dates
Opening times of the various things to see and do mentioned in this itinerary vary throughout the year. Please check public transport times and individual attractions’ websites before you visit. Always check availability and book ahead for tours.
Food & Drink
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Accommodation
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