Today this busy town has many quieter areas to offer the visitor, especially if you are looking for strolling and dining options just on the doorstep of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Since 1639, the Cavaliers have stayed at Southborough lodgings in order to partake of the waters at the Chalybeate Spring!
Vibrant History of Southborough
Southborough, just a 10 minute bus journey north of Royal Tunbridge Wells, is also known as the home to two men named David Salomons. One the famous human rights campaigner, the other his nephew, an inventor of international standing.
Their home, Salomons, is now a large hotel and conference venue within an estate encompassing a small museum containing memorabilia of both men and open to the public.
Here you can wander round the gardens, dine at the Bistro and even stay over in luxurious style.
Imbibe tea, coffee or juice at one of the local cafés, grab a picnic from the local bakery and go off on your wanders round the verdant Common.
This is not just any old Common but 75 acres of greenery and woodland to appreciate!
Other walks in this area include the Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk which can be started here in Southborough or enjoyed as the shorter Southborough Circular Walk (13.3km).
Take in ancient parkland and old industrial heritage sites en route.
Traditional English community vibe!
Southborough Common has been home to the beautiful game and cricket ground for more than 200 years.
Cricket is in the blood here, as you might expect.
But did you know Southborough used to manufacture cricket balls from the mid-1800s until the late 1970s?
You can watch the cricket on a summer’s day from one of the historic pubs across the way.
There are at least 16 pubs and restaurants in the area ranging from gastro-style to good old fashioned pub grub and even one with a cave inside the building!
The community run Little Play café on London Road is very family friendly with a play area for the little ones, particularly useful on a rainy day!
So much to savour
Pennington Grounds is another good little find, just off London Road and Pennington Road.
It has two hard tennis courts, volleyball and basketball courts, climbing net, outdoor table tennis, crazy golf, and an enclosed playground.
The free car park is nearby.
So take a look at your options including accommodation and dining choices in the search widget to the right, and see what takes your fancy.
External links
Information on Pennington Grounds from Southborough Town Council and map of Pennington Grounds’ location.
Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk – Southborough Circular courtesy of Explore Kent.
