Royal Tunbridge Wells Town

Royal Tunbridge Wells is the only spa town in the South East of England. Discover Tunbridge Wells' 400-year history on a one-hour guided walking tour.

The town's elegant architecture, especially in The Pantiles, accommodates a variety of independent shops, cafés and restaurants. Royal Victoria Place, the High Street and the department stores of Fenwick's and Hoopers add to this choice.

A diverse events programme is available throughout the year from 'spring gardens', 'summer sights and sounds' to Christmas festivities and regular Farmers' Markets.  This exciting programme is available in Royal Tunbridge Wells and throughout the borough, including Cranbrook and the beautiful Wealden Villages.

Download a map of Tunbridge Wells to help plan your visit. For further enquiries, contact our Tourist Information Centre.

Want to know more?.....read on!

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 became a rival to Bath and nearby Brighton. 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 over the last 400 years. 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.

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. Explore the town and the historic Pantiles walkway. Nearby, discover the Seven Wonders of the Weald and some of the gardens, stately homes, churches,  and great outdoor activities in the area.

Download a town map of Tunbridge Wells to help plan your visit.  For further information: take a look at our visitor information section.