A good center from which to explore the North Downs is Tunbridge Wells (pop. 45,300), attractively situated on the northern slopes of the Weald. Its chalybeate springs made it a much frequented spa in the 18th century. In 1909 the town's name was changed by royal decree to Royal Tunbridge Wells. Illustrious visitors to the spa have included the dandy "Beau" Nash and the writers Daniel Defoe and John Gay.
The Assembly Halls and the Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells provide live comedy, film and music entertainment. The farmers market is held on the second and fourth Saturday morning of each month outside the Town Hall.
The main attractions today in Royal Tunbridge Wells are the "Pantiles", colonnaded cobbled promenades with shops, which have the distinction of being England's first pedestrian zone, and the columned passageways at the spa buildings where people could stroll while drinking the waters.
The Corn Exchange was originally built and used as a local theatre, later it was converted to a corn exchange where grain was bought and sold. Today the historic building houses a number of select shops.
Address: The Corn Exchange, The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TE, England
A classical 17th century manor provides the backdrop to Groombridge Place Gardens - "the most romantic garden in the Kingdom". It features fountains, formal gardens, and 'The Enchanted Forest' - an award-winning children's garden. You will also find a medieval moat with a waterlilly collection.
It was the setting for Peter Greenaway's film "The Draughtsman's Daughter".
Address: Groombridge Place Gardens, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells TN3 9QG, England
Hours:
March 20 to November 8: 10am-5:30pm
Always opened on: Easter - Christian, Good Friday - Christian, Easter Monday - Christian
Always closed on: Christmas - Christian (December 25)
Tips: Dogs are not permitted.
Phone for information on special events.
Parking: Free
Disability Access: Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.
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Danehill, East Grinstead
Royal Tunbridge Wells
