It’s in the Nature of Royal Tunbridge Wells to welcome you to the town for an enjoyable time, so we’re bringing you anything from those unmissable markets and foodie spots to the places to go to explore the culture, or even just to unwind and chill out...
Pantiles Market
Did you know there’s a Weekly Pantiles Market in the historical centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells? So, if you find yourself visiting the town, or you’re a local looking to explore, this food and craft market has an excellent range of stalls selling everything from high quality local produce, crafts to homewares and accessories, so you can browse away, shop local and wander the surrounding shops, cafes and eateries of the town.
Culture
If you’re interested in learning a thing or two about the culture of Royal Tunbridge Wells, then we’re here to tell you all about it! We’re kicking things off with The Amelia Scott which delivers amazing cultural activities through their different experiences and upcoming events including, Curator Talks and the Annual Library Festival. Or just go for a visit, delve deeper into the story of Amelia Scott and her work, learn about the Royal History, Decimus Burton and Tunbridge Ware or sit back with a book in the adult library.
The Assembly Hall Theatre is another must-visit attraction when exploring the culture of Royal Tunbridge Wells. The hub brings exhilarating performances together from theatre, music, comedy, dance, family, and entertainment events to encourage the community to come together and participate in the arts. Head to the theatre for a show and have a laugh with Troy Hawke in their new comedy show or sing along with Ben Portsmouth with his tribute to The King of Rock and Roll (surely you know who we’re on about!).
Sticking to the topic of entertainment, The Forum is another amazing venue that hosts performances, including their popular Boogie Nights. And, for the upcoming months have a whole host of performances set to take the stage!
Time to laugh, sing, and dance... Trinity Theatre is next on our list. Recognised as a vibrant cultural hub, Trinity Theatre was first established as an arts hub in 1982, and now is best known for their popular theatrical productions, stand-up comedy, live music, cinema much more. There's a reason why Trinity is acknowledge as one of the leading, award-winning, cultural venues in the South East of England!
Sarah Mott
Food & Drink
Food
You didn’t think we’d forget about those must-visit places for you foodies out there, did you? What if we told you it’s in the Nature of Royal Tunbridge Wells to dish out delicious meals from a variety of quality restaurants for the visitors and locals looking to eat and drink out. Sea-foodies, head to Sankeys, on Mt Ephraim renowned locally for its seafood and of course their delicious favourites including fish & chips, Sankey’s Smokie and home smoked fishcakes. For the fine-diners head to The Warren to try the local and natural food, produced using the freshest ingredients to form their innovative British dishes and also the added flavour from other cultures to create innovative and exciting dishes. Lastly, we’ve got just the thing for those who just cannot resist a mouth-watering burger… Roddy Burger on Camden Road, is the place to go!
Drink
Did someone say, cocktails? Yep, we heard it! So it’s only right to head to The Glasshouse if you’re looking to have a cocktail (or two!). But, drinking the cocktails might not be the only tempting thing about coming here, because you can also step behind the bar and become a cocktail connoisseur in one of their Cocktail Classes. Sounds like cocktail heaven to us! Don’t worry, we didn’t forget those of you who prefer a swig of something different. For a nice cold pint head to the Fonthill Brewery Taproom (who by the way is the tipple behind the bar at the Tunbridge Wells pubs, The George, The Sussex Arms and The Ragged Trousers).
Explore the independent shops
Now all that food talk has made us hungry, we thought we’d move on and tell you a little bit about the abundance of independent shops that you can find in the heart of the town. With plenty of shopping areas to explore, including, the Pantiles, Chapel Place, the Old High Street and Monson Road, you're certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to independent shopping in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Hall’s Bookshops is a wonderful little shop to visit if you’re looking to have a browse of a unique collection of reads, or if you’re looking to share the story of your favourite classics to a new reader. For those of you who just love a wander around a home store (seriously, who doesn’t) then Jeremy’s Home Stores is well worth the visit! Whether you’re looking to add a pop of colour to your home or are on the hunt for a quirky gift, you’ll be sure to find something amongst the fantastic products in store at this well-established local.
Stay the night
Shopping, eating, walking, we get it, you’re probably ready for a kip. It’s a good thing we’re sharing with you some of the town’s best accommodations to nestle down for the night. From boutique and budget hotels, Bed and Breakfasts and Camping spots - there's something for everyone here in the town and surrounding areas. A particular gem is Hotel du Vin. This grade II-listed mansion is home to individual and unique rooms, from your classic to your deluxe, there is character and history at the heart of every room. Or for rooms with a view, The Beacon is the place to go. Here you’ll find 6 elegant bedrooms in the main house (launching very soon!), and a 7th Cabin - The Summer House which provides the most undeniably stunning views across the Kent Countryside… It’s in the Nature of this royal town to provide guests with an unforgettable stay.
Find your space to relax
We know for some, the ideal way to relax is of course in the comfort of one of the stunning accommodations here in Royal Tunbridge Wells, but don’t forget, there’s other ways you can get that all-important ‘me time.’ So, if that’s what you’re looking for, then we recommend immersing yourself into the nature of the town and heading to Dunorlan Park to explore the wildlife and peaceful surroundings. With nature at the heart of the gardens, what better way to switch off and find time to explore the wildlife and soak in the views across the lake to the Weald.
Why not take a 5-minute stroll from the centre of town and arrive at The Commons, a natural green space perfect for walks, picnics, ball games and more! Or, simply just take in the views, catch the cricket games from one of the many benches or watch the boating on the lake – sounds like peace to us!
