Planning to spend a few days in Tunbridge Wells? You’re in luck — this town, while small, is the perfect place to spend a few days. Indeed, part of its popularity is thanks to its perfect blend of relaxing activities and fun adventures. You can spend a quaint afternoon in the park on a summer’s afternoon, while in the evening be in the hustle and bustle of London, which is just an hour away. In any case, you’re unlikely to grow bored on a visit to Tunbridge Wells, a town so beloved by Queen Victoria and other royals that it became an officially designated Royal town back in 1909.
Need some trip inspiration for your getaway to Tunbridge Wells? We’ve got you covered.
Enjoy the Splendour of the Town
You don’t need to do anything overly special in your first few hours in Tunbridge Wells. Simply take a stroll through the town’s historic heart, The Pantiles. This charming Georgian street offers a quintessential snapshot of all there is to love about the town, with plenty of bars, cafes, and stores. If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with one of the many events that take place throughout the year, including markets and food festivals. The best is the Sankey’s Feast & Fizz Festival, which takes place on the weekend of May 18th.
An Afternoon in Dunorlan Park
On a warm afternoon, there’s no better place to be than Dunorlan Park (though it can also be charming on a frozen winter’s day, too). It’s located a simple and gentle twenty-minute walk from the town centre, and once you’re there you’ll find lakes, walking trails, play areas, and activities that include kayaking. It’s also an excellent place to bird-watch or simply kick back on a blanket and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the space.
Spend the Evening in London
Tunbridge Wells is just an hour’s train journey from central London, giving visitors from further afield the opportunity to experience both a quaint, historic town and one of the city’s finest metropolises, all in a single weekend. After a day in the countryside, hop on one of the many fast and convenient trains to London and enjoy an evening on the town.
There’s an endless number of things to do in London, including seeing a show or booking a reservation in a world-class restaurant. Round off your evening with a visit to Crown London Casino, one of the city’s classiest establishments. This opulent casino is located in the heart of London, just behind Buckingham Palace. Keep in mind that, while anyone who becomes a member can play at Crown, they’re expected to know the rules; visitors intending to play should make sure their gameplay is to scratch by playing at a casino online before they visit. It’s easier than ever to play online these days, so players can even warm up when they’re on their way to the city. Trains from London to Tunbridge Wells run until around midnight at the weekend.
Take the Historic Railway
Tunbridge Wells is a historic old town, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a ride along a steam-engine train. Spa Valley Railway tours pass through five miles of stunning countryside, with plenty of fascinating stops along the way. It’s fun just to be on the train, so look at getting a day pass. That’ll allow you to hop on and off as you discover the stops, which include exquisite gardens and quaint restaurants.
See a Local Show
Believe it or not, Tunbridge Wells offers a great variety of cultural shows. There are three venues in town — Tunbridge Wells Forum, which hosts concerts; Trinity Theatre, which offers plays, dance shows, and classical music; and Assembly Hall Theatre, which has all kinds of entertainment. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday evening before stopping off at one of the town’s many cosy pubs.