Museums in Tunbridge Wells

Find out how this beautiful region came to be so important to the history of England and Kent. Decimus Barton, Dudley Lord North, Queen Victoria, Sid Vicious and the hop-pickers from East London are all a part of the make up of this pretty part of the Weald.

The Story of Tunbridge Wells

The collections at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery on Mount Pleasant Road reveal the history of Tunbridge Wells, including one of the most impressive collections of Tunbridge ware in the world – locally crafted marquetry first made in the 1700s.

Displays include art, natural history artefacts, archaeology, craft and toys amongst others.  From decadence to humility, discover the story behind a beautiful spa town in the south east of England.

The Salomons Estate near the town centre has a wealth of history about the local well-to-do, visit the Museum in the regal gardens of the mansion house and feel a part of the 1850s.

Stories from the Weald

The Cranbrook Museum houses a local history collection within a 15th century timber-framed farmhouse bringing to life Victorian Cranbrook, including the trade and industry on which the town was built.  There are tranquil gardens and a pond to be enjoyed and family history archives for researchers. Watch their video to get a sneak preview.

Unfortunately the famed Finchcocks Musical Museum in Goudhurst had to close at the end December 2015 as the owners retired. However, there is still much to be enjoyed in delightful red-tiled hill village of Goudhurst. Find the pirate’s grave in the hill-top churchyard and climb up the church tower. History oozes out of the buildings, all higgledy-piggledy and crooked!

Further inspiration

Don’t forget to check the What’s On pages and search facility to find out the latest exhibitions and displays at the museums in Tunbridge Wells.  To further whet your appetite, there is more to discover on our History pages too.

Our accommodation guide can help you plan your stay for longer so you can fit it all in!