Exploring the Best Pub Walks in Tunbridge Wells
In the mood to pull on your wellies and set off with a family on a refreshing walk, ideally ending up at a cosy, country pub? Tunbridge Wells is filled with scenic trails, historic woodlands, picturesque villages and charming countryside to explore and an even greater number of welcoming pubs to relax in afterward. These pub walks are perfect for a Sunday outing, especially when the promise of hearty roast can entice even the most reluctant of walkers. Here are some of the best pub walks in and around Tunbridge Wells.
1.The Vineyard Pub
Nestled in the heart of the Kent countryside, The Vineyard in Lamberhurst is the perfect starting point for a range of walks offered. With walks ranging from easy (3.5km) to hard (13km), you’ll find something to suit you and your energy level. One popular route takes you through the undulating landscapes of the High Weald, offering stunning views of vineyards and hop gardens. After your walk, reward yourself with a visit to The Vineyard restaurant and pub. The glorious garden is a picture-perfect spot to enjoy alfreso drinking and dining. There’s also an outdoor play area so the whole family including the dogs will love this.
2.The Chequers Inn
Begin your adventure at The Chequers Inn, also located in Lamberhurst, for this circular route of 6.6km. The pub’s garden is the starting point for a beautiful walking trail that leads to the historic Scotney Castle. The trail offers a mix of woodland and open fields, with the medieval castle providing a stunning backdrop as you approach. The Chequers Inn is an ideal spot to unwind post-walk, with its rustic charm and hearty menu. With a gorgeous beer garden outside, for sunny days, and log fires and wooden beams inside, for cosy winter drinks and dining – this one is for any season.Â
3. The Red Lion and The Beacon
For those who prefer an easy, stile-free walk, the Rusthall Common Stile-Free Trail is a great option especially for the little ones. This scenic route takes you through Rusthall Common, offering a tranquil escape from the bustle of Tunbridge Wells. The Beacon, perched on the edge of the common, is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal with panoramic views. Or if you want to extend your walk, head to the nearby Red Lion pub, another gem offering some of the best Thai food with a welcoming atmosphere complete with an outdoor play area.
4. The Tunbridge Wells Circular with multiple pub stops
The Tunbridge Wells Circular offers the opportunity to explore the town and its surrounding countryside over a huge area of 44.3km, providing a real challenge for those who want to spend several days exploring. Alternatively, it can be tackled in smaller portions for more of a leisurely walk with plenty of pub stops along the way. Start in Rusthall, where you can visit the George and Dragon in nearby Speldhurst and The Hare in Langton Green. If you’re up for a longer walk, head to High Rocks and visit the historic High Rocks Inn, or continue on to Groombridge to the Crown Inn. For a unique end to your adventure, hop on the Spa Valley Railway and enjoy a scenic ride back to Royal Tunbridge Wells.
5. The John Brunt Pub
For a more challenging walk of 8.53 km with 4 stiles, this walk from The John Brunt Pub in Paddock Wood will take you through peaceful orchards and farmlands with so much beauty to spot in every season. In Spring, the woodland floor is coated in bluebells with blossom in the orchard trees. In Autumn, you’ll find fruits on the trees and crunchy leaves in the woods and in winter, frosty branches and ice covering the rooftops of the oast houses. After your countryside stomp, finish at The John Brunt and relax with a great selection of beer, cider, wine and cocktails and a menu bursting with traditional pub classics, delicious desserts and an array of kids dishes. Their fantastic beer garden also offers a dog-friendly retreat come rain or shine.
6. Cranbrook and Sissinghurst with multiple pub stops
Cranbrook, known as the “Capital of the Weald,” offers several delightful walks that blend history and natural beauty. Start at the historic George Hotel and explore the Cranbrook South walk, which takes you through time, passing historic buildings and scenic countryside. For a longer trek, try this Cranbrook Walk and head to Sissinghurst and visit The Milk House pub filled with exposed beams, wooden floors and cosy fireplaces or should it be warm, take a seat outside in their garden where you can enjoy crafted cocktails and sourdough pizzas from the Hopper Hut Bar.
7. The Star and Eagle
Embark on a walk through time in Goudhurst, where you’ll discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Kent countryside. As you explore this linear trail of 16.09km, consider taking a small detour to the Star and Eagle in Goudhurst, where a traditional pub experience awaits with its warm ambiance and classic fare. An ancient inglenook fireplace will blaze in winter or experience superb views from their terrace in the summer.Â
8. The Woodcock Inn & The Bull at Benenden
Benenden is a picturesque village, and the High Weald Landscape Trail offers a stunning way to explore the area. This trail takes you through ancient woodlands, open fields, and charming villages. The Woodcock Inn and The Bull at Benenden are perfect places to rest, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. For those looking to venture further, the trail also passes through Hawkenbury and Goudhurst, where  The Star and Eagle also awaits.
9. The Halfway House
Brenchley, with its rolling hills and stunning views, is another great destination for pub walks. The Halfway House offers a well-mapped route for walkers, combining beautiful countryside with the promise of a welcoming pub at the end. Pop in on a winter weekend for a delicious Sunday roast in front of the log fire or come on a sunny afternoon and enjoy the spacious family garden complete with a garden bar. The nearby The Star Inn and Poet at Matfield pubs are also excellent options for extending your walk and enjoying some local hospitality.
10. Tunbridge Wells Common with multiple pub stops
For a more urban experience, explore the Common in Royal Tunbridge Wells. These expansive green spaces are perfect for a leisurely walk, and you can easily combine your stroll with a visit to one of the local pubs. The Ragged Trousers, Framptons,The White Bear, and The Compasses are all popular choices, offering a range of refreshments from craft beers to classic pub grub. Complete with outdoor spaces so this one is perfect for your furry friend too.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a gentle stroll, the Tunbridge Wells area offers a wealth of walking trails that cater to all abilities. And with so many excellent pubs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect spot to relax and refuel after your walk. So grab your walking boots, and discover the best of Kent’s countryside and its charming pubs.
11. Gun & Spitroast Inn
The Gun & Spitroast Inn in Horsmonden is not just a charming 16th-century pub but also the perfect starting point for an 8k circular walk through one of Kent’s most historically significant villages. Once the most important gun manufacturing site in Britain during the 17th century, Horsmonden is now known for its lush orchards and hop production. This scenic walk offers stunning views of the High Weald, the Greensand Ridge, and the river valleys of Teise and Medway. After your walk, relax with traditional pub fare in the oak-beamed inn, or unwind in the garden.
