Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s plenty to do in Royal Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding areas.
But it’s also a great place to explore the rest of Kent (and neighbouring East Sussex) from. Kent is affectionately known as the Garden of England – and for good reason! Surrounded by luscious green countryside and forests and being home to some of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the country, Kent is a wonderful place to explore all year round.
And Tunbridge Wells is the best place to explore from! It’s halfway between London and the coast, has an abundance of its own exciting things to see and do, and has excellent road and public transport connections to the best Kent spots.
So, keep reading to discover 10 things to do in Kent while you’re visiting Tunbridge Wells!
1. Explore the Kent coastline
The South East coast has everything you could want, from sandy beaches to daunting cliffs and an astounding array of wildlife. Being halfway between London and the coast, Royal Tunbridge Wells is the perfect jumping off spot for exploring the hidden gems of the South East! From Royal Tunbridge Wells, hop on the train, the bus or drive to the coastline and see what Kent and Sussex have to offer!
Rye & Camber Sands, East Sussex
Nestled right next to each other, Rye and Camber Sands offer the best of both worlds: historic cobbled streets and independent shops to explore in Rye and a beautifully sandy beach to enjoy in Camber Sands!
55 minutes drive or 1 hour 10 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Hastings, East Sussex
Easy to get to and full of things to do, Hastings is a favourite of Tunbridge Wells residents. Visit the Old Town for cobbled streets and fresh fish, have fun in the amusement arcades, or visit the shopping centre for retail therapy.
55 minute drive or 50 minutes via direct train from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Folkestone, Kent
Cobbled streets, eclectic shops and a stunning sandy beach – Folkestone has all that and more! Visit the Harbour Arm for fish and chips before spending the day on the beach or hiring a boat for a sea trip.
1 hour drive or 1.5 hours via train from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent
This iconic stretch of coastline is instantly recognisable and full of things to do. Explore the Fan Bay Deep Shelter of WW2, walk the Saxon Shore Way or visit the South Foreland Lighthouse – or just enjoy the view of France you can spot on a clear day!
1 hour 20 minutes drive or 1 hour 45 minutes via train from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
2. Visit a vineyard in Kent
Treat yourself to a tipple in one of Kent’s vineyards! Producing the finest wines and beverages right on our doorstep, these local vineyards are a must-visit during your trip to Tunbridge Wells – and there are 3 wonderful vineyards within an hour of Royal Tunbridge Wells!
The Mount Vineyard, Sevenoaks
The ‘hidden’ vineyard is one of Kent’s best kept secrets. Moments from the M25 and close to the centre of Sevenoaks, The Mount serves food, drinks and wine tastings that tickle the tastebuds!
30 minute drive or 1 hour via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Chapel Down, Tenterden
Producing award-winning sparkling and still wines, Chapel Down hosts a world-leading winemaking team changing the face of British wine. Take a guided tour and tasting or lease your own vines to make your own wine!
50 minute drive or 2 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Balfour Winery, Staplehurst
Another award-winning winery in the heart of Kent, Balfour Winery hosts all-year-round tours of the vineyards, apple orchards and ancient oak woodlands on the estate. Finish your trip with a meat, cheese or vegetarian platter – locally sourced ingredients, of course!
30 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
3. Go for a walk in the Garden of England
Kent’s countryside is one of its greatest features – so why not spend a day exploring the fields and forests on offer around Tunbridge Wells?
Knole Park, Sevenoaks
With over 1,000 acres of trees, woodlands and valleys, a National Trust cafe and home to native deer, Knole Park is a firm favourite with locals and tourists alike.
Kent’s last medieval deer park has much to explore and is a must-visit for a family day out.
35 minute drive or 1 hour via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Cranbrook
Once used as a prison in the 1700s, Sissinghurst Castle Garden was transformed in the 1930s and is now a stunningly colourful example of an English country garden.
Take a walk around the curated gardens before exploring some of the 450 acre estate – don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Tower!
35 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Chiddingstone Castle & Causeway, Edenbridge
400 years of history and 35 acres of estate are waiting to be explored at Chiddingstone Castle, before hopping over to the rural Chiddingstone Causeway to enjoy a hike across the West Kent countryside.
Whether it’s the castle or the causeway that tickles your fancy, Chiddingstone’s a great place to find a moment of peace and experience the natural beauty of Kent.
25 minute drive or 1 hour via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Ashdown Forest, East Sussex
Just across the Kent border in East Sussex, Ashdown Forest is an ancient area of woodland in the High Weald. With over 10 square miles of woodland to explore, Ashdown Forest is popular with dog walkers, horse riders and hikers alike.
Start your day at the Ashdown Forest Centre to learn about the area’s history before starting your journey across the woodlands!
25 minute drive or 1.5 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
4. Visit one of Kent’s historic castles
Being closest to the European mainland, it’s no surprise that Kent has a lot of history to offer! Travel to one of Kent’s castles from Royal Tunbridge Wells to revel in historic architecture and learn more about English history.
Hever Castle, Edenbridge
One of the most well-known castles in Kent, Hever Castle was Anne Boleyn’s childhood home – and now offers a fun family day out or the perfect location for weddings and events!
Wander through the castle and its exhibits to learn about Tudor history, get lost in the garden’s maze, or visit during one of Hever Castle’s many events for even more fun. You can even spend a night in the castle too!
25 minute drive or 1.5 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst
Home to a 14th century moated castle, Victorian country mansion and 780 acres of wooded estate, Scotney Castle is celebrated as one of the most picturesque locations in Kent.
The castle, house and gardens are all open for exploring and the National Trust tearoom is the perfect spot for a midday rest. The grounds and gardens are dog friendly too!
20 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Leeds Castle, Maidstone
With a history dating back to the 11th century, Leeds Castle is a thriving attraction playing host to over 600,000 visitors every year!
With adventure golf, historic exhibits, garden tours, and regular events hosted in its grounds, Leeds Castle has something for everyone!
45 minute drive or 2 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
5. Unleash your inner adrenaline junkie
If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fuelled adventure, Kent has plenty to offer! From Royal Tunbridge Wells, there are numerous high-thrill attractions waiting to be explored.
Hot Air Balloon Rides, Tunbridge Wells
See Royal Tunbridge Wells from an entirely new angle in a hot air balloon flight! Not for the faint-hearted, these once-in-a-lifetime experiences see you take flight from just outside Royal Tunbridge Wells (Wadhurst or Paddock Wood) and spend an hour seeing Kent from the skies. Plus, prosecco afterwards too!
Book via Wonder Days or Virgin Experiences. Locations 20-25 minutes drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Bedgebury Pinetum, Goudhurst
An award-winning visitor attraction for good reason, Bedgebury Pinetum offers the opportunity for adrenaline junkies to climb through the treetops at Go Ape or race through the forests on its mountain bike trails.
For the rest of the family, the Play Trail features 11 child-friendly playgrounds!
25 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Headcorn Aerodrome, Ashford
Flying lessons, skydiving, sky walking – Headcorn Aerodrome has it all! This airfield just outside of Ashford always has something fun happening, from WWII planes taking off and landing to parachutists floating their way in.
If keeping your feet on solid ground is more your speed, there’s plenty of coffee, cake and tasty food on offer at the airfield cafes!
40 minute drive or 1.5 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Brands Hatch, Longfield
If fast cars and motorbikes are your thing, Brands Hatch is the place to be. Home to races throughout the year, from touring cars to superbikes and even truck racing, Brands Hatch is great for a day out.
For an even more exciting adventure, book a track day or a driving experience!
40 minute drive or 1 hour 45 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
6. Travel by train in Kent
As well as being home to some of the most connected train lines in the country, allowing easy trips from Royal Tunbridge Wells into London and to the South Coast, Kent is also home to railways that are fun for all the family!
Spa Valley Railway, Royal Tunbridge Wells
One of Royal Tunbridge Wells’ most popular attractions, the Spa Valley Railway takes passengers through the Kent countryside from the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells to Eridge, via High Rocks and Groombridge.
With special functions running year-round, from Christmas fun for all the family to wine tasting trips, it’s a must-visit – and allows you to see even more of Kent, too!
Runs from Tunbridge Wells West railway station to Eridge railway station. Check timetables here.
Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden
Travelling 10.5 miles through the Rother Valley, the K&ESR is a light railway that’s been lovingly restored since its construction in 1900. Running steam and diesel trains, the train runs from Tenterden through Rolvenden, Wittersham Road, Northiam and ending in Bodiam.
Hop on and off at any of the stunning stations and explore the rural Kent countryside, or book one of the K&ESR’s special events for extra fun!
Runs from Tenterden to Bodiam. Check timetables here.
7. Explore your wild side at Kent’s animal attractions
Is there anything better than a family day out seeing the animals of the world? Kent has a number of zoos, sanctuaries and reserves to explore from your Tunbridge Wells base!
The Big Cat Sanctuary, Ashford
Home to endangered species of big cats, The Big Cat Sanctuary is doing wonderful work in conservation, breeding and education – and you can visit!
Whether it’s an overnight safari, an open day or a photography experience, every visit supports the work of The Big Cat Sanctuary and is a fantastic day out too!
45 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Port Lympne Safari Park, Hythe
Port Lympne’s wildlife park, safari park and onsite hotel make it the perfect adventure from Tunbridge Wells. Visit 75 species of wildlife, including Kent’s only spectacled bears, at Kent’s largest wildlife park!
With shops, tea rooms and activities for kids too, it’s a great day out for all the family.
1 hour 15 minutes drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
RSPB Nature Reserves, Kent
For the experienced and amateur twitchers, or those looking for a peaceful day out, Kent has a number of RSPB nature reserves to visit!
From the wild ponies of Broadwater Warren to forested land in Tudeley Woods and more, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring, learning and birdwatching!
Broadwater Warren is a 10 minute drive or 30 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells. Tudeley Woods is a 10 minute drive or 1 hour via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
8. Experience luxury at Kent’s stately homes
Culture, history and a slice of Kent countryside all rolled into one – that’s what you can expect when visiting one of Kent’s many stately homes and country gardens!
Chartwell, Westerham
The home of Winston Churchill for over 40 years, Chartwell is a country house that’s steeped in history.
See Churchill’s original paintings in his studio, stroll through the Rose Garden and Walled Garden, and explore the surrounding woodlands with a walk around the lake – all finished off with a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the National Trust cafe. A sophisticated day out!
30 minute drive or 1 hour 15 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks
Step even further back in history at Ightam Mote, a medieval moated manor house. Visit the house to learn about 700 years of Kent history, then explore 14 acres of gardens nestled in a Kent valley.
If you’re visiting with family, there are plenty of trails, play areas and fun things to explore too!
30 minute drive or 1 hour 15 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Penshurst Place, Penshurst
Nothing says stately home like the imposing facade of Penshurst Place! The 14th century manor house and its surrounding gardens once belonged to King Henry VIII and is still occupied to this day.
Explore the home and its grounds before tea and cake at the much-loved Porcupine Pantry to refuel for an afternoon of family fun in the Adventure Playground!
15 minute drive or 30 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
9. Family fun in Kent
There’s fun for all the family in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding Kent area! Take the whole family for a day out at one of Kent’s family-friendly attractions.
Tonbridge Golf Centre, Tonbridge
Dino golf, footgolf, normal golf and padel tennis – this place has it all! Just a few minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge Golf Centre is fun for all the family. Dino Golf’s a particularly popular attraction, featuring an 18-hole adventure golf course for big kids and little kids!
20 minute drive or 30 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The Hundred Acre Wood, Ashdown Forest
Visit the real-life home of one of the most recognisable fictional characters, Winnie the Pooh! Throw sticks over Pooh Bridge, visit Pooh Corner for a cup of tea, and explore the woods that were the inspiration for AA Milne’s beloved children’s books.
20 minute drive or 30 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The Historic Dockyard, Chatham
Set sail in Chatham! With 400 years of history behind it, The Historic Dockyard has loads to explore for all the family. Step aboard the submarine HMS Ocelot, the WW2 destroyer HMS Cavalier and the Victorian sloop HMS Gannet.
Learn about the dockyard’s history, let off steam in the playgrounds and refuel in the cafe – the perfect day out!
1 hour drive or 2 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Diggerland, Strood
For a day out like no other, Diggerland is a theme park adventure for all ages! With 20 different rides, indoor and outdoor play areas and plenty of food and drink options, there’s enough adventure for an entire day out for all the family at Diggerland!
50 minute drive or 2 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
10. Explore Kent’s most-loved towns
We love Royal Tunbridge Wells, of course – but Kent has many more towns to visit too! Once you’ve explored The Amelia, The Assembly Hall, The Pantiles and everything else Royal Tunbridge Wells has to offer, it’s time to venture further afield. From your Tunbridge Wells base, explore some of the Garden of England’s most-loved towns.
Tonbridge
Just moments from Royal Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge is an up-and-coming town with plenty to do and see! Visit Tonbridge Castle, walk along the riverbank, or shop in one of Tonbridge’s local independent shops – there’s plenty to explore!
20 minute drive or 20 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Sevenoaks
Home to Knole Park, just down the road from Chartwell and with excellent travel links into London, it’s no surprise Sevenoaks is one of the most loved towns in Kent! It’s the perfect destination for a lazy brunch or a fine dining experience too.
25 minute drive or 25 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Canterbury
Stunning cathedral, beautiful scenery and a vibrant array of shops and restaurants await in Canterbury!
From winter festivals to rainy day fun and plenty of free things to do, Canterbury is a great day trip from Tunbridge Wells. And if culture’s your thing, catch a show at the much-loved Marlowe Theatre too!
1.5 hour drive or 1 hour 40 minutes via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Margate
Sandy beaches, amusement parks, hidden grottos… Margate has everything!
Spend the day on the beach (if the weather plays ball), take the kids to Dreamland Margate for the vintage rides, explore the stunning Shell Grotto or soak up some culture in the town’s Turner Contemporary art gallery.
1 hour 50 minute drive or 2 hours via public transport from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
