Welcome to Southborough
Located just to the north of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Southborough is a quirky town and a great place to stay when visiting. Discover the local history, food and countryside in our short guide.
A Stroll Around Salomons Estate
Day 1 – Morning
Salomons Estate sits within 36 acres of pristine countryside and is just a 5-minute drive from Southborough centre. This stunning Victorian mansion was occupied by three generations of Salomons, including Sir David Salomons, who broke down barriers to become the first Jewish Mayor of London and his nephew (of the same name) who became an acclaimed author, scientist and engineer. Today the estate is an renowned wedding venue, museum, and visitor access to the surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty. Be sure to stop by at Salomons’ Bistro!
Eating Out in Southborough
Day 1 – Lunch
Southborough boasts a selection of top-tier Indian gastronomy in Kent. Yatra Café brings a new twist to traditional Indian flavours with its speciality homemade street food dishes, including its famous lamb samosas, spiced chickpea burgers and their trademark Yatra nachos. Another wonderful option is Hana, a Japanese restaurant that offers timeless sushi delights. Don’t miss out on trying their flavourful spicy tempura roll or their classic sesame chicken.
Shopping in Southborough
Day 1 – Afternoon
Pop in at Hardmann and Hemming, a bespoke tailors that puts a contemporary spin on tailoring traditions.
If you are looking for appropriate footwear for an active getaway, the Running Hub has a marvellous array of trainers, both for beginners and professionals.
And don’t miss out on Kent Cricket Direct, one of the last specialist cricket shops in the South of England, where people come from all over the world to get kitted out for the new season!
Best Pubs in Southborough
Day 1 – Evening
A visit to a traditional pub is the best way to end the day. The pubs in the area range from gastro-style to good old fashioned pub grub.
The Imperial Pub offers Kent’s very own Sheppard Neame cask ales and excellent wines which can be enjoyed in their courtyard garden during the summer. In the winter, you can sit in front of the fireplace where you can enjoy a nice pint of beer whilst playing traditional pub games, including pool!
Another great option is The Hand & Sceptre. This pub is also a restaurant and a hotel and is favourably located in front of Southborough’s picturesque cricket ground.
Top Things to do in Southborough
Day 2 – Breakfast
Start your day at The Earl Grey, a vintage tearoom decorated with antiques where they serve heavenly homemade cakes and modern British food, all made from locally sourced products.
Indulge in yet another fantastic breakfast choice at the Rusbridge Family Bakery. This traditional third-generation family bakery has been a Southborough staple for nearly five decades, offering a delightful array of freshly baked buns each day.
After enjoying a lovely breakfast, why not learn a new skill? There are great options to get creative in Southborough.
Arty Farty Retreat is a creative, relaxing space where you will be able to express yourself, discover your creativity and pick up new skills. You can attend a one-to-one expressive therapy session, a painting class, or a ceramic workshop. Arty Farty is also a favourite among the community, as it has become a place where people can meet, learn, and even create their own hand-crafted gifts.
Then be tempted by Temper Temper Chocolate where not only you can find handmade chocolate, but you can make it yourself in one of their workshops. These are designed for all ages and often end in chocolate tastings!
You can also pop into Knot Works, a creative space where you will find events, exhibitions, and workshops.
Explore the Countryside
Day 2 – Afternoon
Grab a picnic from a local bakery and go off to explore the verdant Common. Southborough Common has 75 acres of greenery and woodland to appreciate. There is a lovely walk down to Holden Pond, where you can see the ducks and if you continue to Modest Corner, you will find a lovely stream. Nearby is St. Peter’s Church and nearby is Pennington Grounds, a playpark for children which also includes mini-golf, tennis courts and outdoor gym equipment (available to use from 8am to 6pm).
Discover the beauty of the Southborough Viaduct walk, a 2-hour circular route starting at Pennington Grounds car park. Wander through forests, fields, bridges, and the iconic Colebrook Viaduct.
Other walks in this area include the Southborough Circular, which is part of the 23 mile long Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk.
Fine Dining Experience in Southborough
Day 2 – Evening
After a good look around Southborough you deserve to treat yourself with an outstanding fine dining experience. This Guardian aclaimed restaurant will melt your senses and awake your culinary spirit. Tallow’s menu offers exquisite plates such as Longland Farm duck breast or beer brined chicken in bourbon sauce. If you are a foodie, this is is a must!
