The Tunbridge Wells area and the town of Royal Tunbridge Wells specifically is often referred to as the “Royal Spa of Kent”. This evokes images of grandeur and elegance. But what if I told you a delightful escape to this charming area in Kent needn’t break the bank? With a little planning, you can experience Tunbridge Wells’ beauty and rich heritage on a budget-friendly break.
In this article:
- Explore the great outdoors
- Wildlife Spotting
- Explore Kent Historic Houses for Free
- Free Heritage Trails
- Seasonal Festivals & Events
- More budget friendly & free things to do
- Budget-Friendly Place to Eat
- Budget Friendly Accommodation in Tunbridge Wells
- Insider Tip
Explore the great outdoors
Tunbridge Wells is the perfect budget friendly destination. Located in the beautiful Garden of England, our borough offers a wealth of parks, commons, countryside, and woodlands for you to explore. Best of all, these stunning green spaces are completely free and will keep you active for hours.
Many of the parks have fantastic children’s play areas and sports facilities. You can play tennis at Calverley Grounds, try out the skate parks in Grosvenor and Hilbert Park, or even spot a dragon in Dunorlan Park.
Why not pack a delicious picnic filled with local treats and venture out to Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons? You can relax on the lush green grass or explore the famous Wellington Rocks, which make for a fantastic natural playground. Alternatively, you can simply unwind with a good book and bask in the sunshine.
In the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, don’t miss the Calverley Grounds Café, a perfect spot to recharge after a game of tennis or basketball on the public courts. The nearby adventure playground is great for the whole family to practice their athletic skills in the refreshing open air.
Wildlife Spotting
Kent is a fantastic destination for nature lovers. When you explore its stunning landscapes, you might be lucky enough to spot a variety of wildlife.
Entertain the children with a nature trail where you can spot birds, butterflies, and insects. If you look closely, you may even see a grass snake. Don’t forget to check out the ponds, where frogs, toads, and tadpoles make their home.
At Dunorlan Park, you can stroll around the lake and see ducks, geese, and cranes. This park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a place where people can relax. You can sit at the Café decking while taking in the view of the lake and trees. Under 12s will love the natural play area and the dipping pond. If you fancy a bit of fun on the water, you can hire a pedal boat.
Explore Kent Historic Houses for Free
Did you know that many historic houses and castles boast public rights of way around their estates, inviting you to explore at no cost? The Scotney Castle estate trails provide panoramic views of the moated castle from a distance, while at Sissinghurst Castle, a leisurely riverside stroll awaits. Wander freely into the Knole House estate from Sevenoaks town, admire the impressive house, and catch glimpses of the resident deer herds. For a rejuvenating walk, Penshurst Place offers a circular route through its historic estate. Your only cost may be a well-earned tea & cake at the end of your walk!
Did you know that there are more castles, historic houses and gardens concentrated in this area than any other in England? If you are planning to stay for a while and you’d like to explore all the local stately homes and gardens then it is worth looking into a National Trust or English Heritage membership to make the most of your stay.
Free Audio Trail
Want to learn more about the history of Royal Tunbridge Wells? Download the free audio heritage trail the Tales of Tunbridge Wells. This is a free and fascinating way to find out all the town’s history, the reason Tunbridge Wells is “Royal”, and the discovery of the spa waters in an entertaining fashion. Alternatively, pick up a heritage trail leaflet from one of our tourist information points and following the red plaques linked to historical figures that helped shape Tunbridge Wells today. We recommend that you choose a quiet time to fully appreciate the stories and admire some of the more unusual architecture around the town centre.
Seasonal Festivals & Events
Tunbridge Wells has a calendar full of free or budget friendly events and festivals. During the Spring and Summer, catch open-air theatre performances, browse through vibrant markets, or enjoy live music in the park at Local & Live. During the winter, the town transforms into a festive wonderland with carol concerts and twinkling lights, all at no cost.
Budget-Friendly Place to Eat
Tunbridge Wells caters to all palettes, and budget-conscious foodies are well looked after. Tunbridge Wells is brimming with cafes and delis offering delicious lunches and snacks. Enjoy a lunchtime menu deal or grab a picnic basket from a farm shop and enjoy it our green spaces. In the evenings, explore gastropubs offering hearty meals at reasonable prices. Check our special offers section for some of the best foodie deals in the area.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Tunbridge Wells
We have a wide variety of budget friendly hotels as well as self-catering accommodation, campsites and B&Bs in Tunbridge Wells.
Check out the Premier Inn in Royal Tunbridge Wells or choose a lovely Bed & Breakfast such as Hallwood Farm Oast House in Cranbrook or The Holt in Benenden.
You might find that camping or glamping is the best solution for you. Camping feels like a luxury when you are surrounded by such beautiful countryside, and you get to experience adventures in the great outdoors. Or even self-catering cottages. This allows you to explore the local markets and farm shops, whipping up delicious meals at your own pace.
