Tunbridge Wells Town

Royal Tunbridge Wells owes its existence to the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606 by Dudley, Lord North. Once the playground of royalty and the aristocracy, Tunbridge Wells was the place to see and be seen and became a rival to Bath and nearby Brighton. Today Royal Tunbridge Wells still has much to please visitors.

Surrounded by beautiful Wealden countryside and just a short train journey from London's Charing Cross and easily accessible by car from the coast and the main road routes in the South East, Royal Tunbridge Wells makes an ideal base for a short break or a pleasant day out - either just exploring the town and the historic Pantiles walkway, discovering some of the dozens of gardens, stately homes and other places to visit in the area, relaxing in a quaint village pub, enjoying some retail therapy or unwinding in the surrounding countryside.

The town's historic past is reflected very much in its architecture - from elegant Regency villas to large Victorian houses, many designed by Decimus Burton, to pretty clapboard cottages, all surrounded by lots of green space, including the unique 200-acre Common located in the town centre. Discover Tunbridge Wells' 400-year history on a one-hour guided walking tour.

As the only spa town in the South East of England, Royal Tunbridge Wells is proud of its Georgian heritage. Visitors can still taste the Spring water today just as visitors such as Queen Anne, Queen Victoria, Samuel Pepys and Daniel Defoe, to name just a few, did more than 400 years ago.

Visitors to Royal Tunbridge Wells can still expect a unique combination of history, style and relaxation.

Download a map of Tunbridge Wells to help plan your visit.