If you have been wanting to walk the Tunbridge Wells Circular then this one is for you!  Today we will tackle the first section from the centre of town out to Groombridge, Speldhurst and finishing in Southborough.  There are regular buses from Southborough to take you back into the centre of Tunbridge Wells.  Adult bus fares are currently fixed at £2 or it’s an easy 3 miles (approx 1hr) walk if you prefer!

Note that this walk is not a nordic walk and therefore you will not need any poles – although you are welcome to walk with trekking or nordic walking poles if you wish!

The route is around 10 miles and we will stop for a break after around 3.5 miles and then again at around 7 miles.  The terrain is mainly on footpaths and can be rough in places.  There is the odd hill, but nothing too steep or long!  You will be rewarded with some lovely countryside views!

This walk is suitable for those who are comfortable walking at a pace of 2.5-3 mph for a sustained period of time.  Children are welcome but due to the distance it is unlikely to be suitable for younger children.  You are of course welcome to bring babies in a backpack (although beware of low hanging branches in places).  Unfortunately the route is not suitable for buggies.

Well behaved dogs are also welcome although they may need to be on a lead in places.  Owners are responsible for their dogs at all times.

In order to book the walk each adult will need to register and complete an online PARQ before booking and paying online.  Children under 14 are free of charge and those aged 14 and over are charged at £6 which needs to be paid in cash on the day (once you have booked please just email me to let me know how many children are included in your party).  Please note that children remain the responsibility of the parent at all times.

Please wear appropriate footwear such as walking boots or shoes with a reasonable grip.  Good trainers may be fine provided there has not been too much rain and the ground is dry.  Please don’t wear wellies!  I also recommend wearing walking trousers rather than shorts as the paths can be narrow in places with stinging nettles and there is also the risk of ticks.

Please bring:

Waterproofs (if rain looks possible)

Water

Sunscreen and sunhats

Packed lunch and snacks (there will be stops on the route with the opportunity to purchase drinks etc in pubs)

Any medication that you may require such as inhaler for asthma.

Free cancellation before 6pm on Thursday 29 June.  Cancellation after this time will result in the full amount being charged.

Meeting location Notes:

There is free parking higher up on Major Yorks Road or along Hungershall Road. Meet at entrance to car park at the bottom end of Major Yorks Road.