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!
Traditional English community vibe!
Southborough Common has been home to the game of cricket 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 cricket on a summer’s day from one of the historic pubs across the way.
There are many pubs and restaurants in the area ranging from gastro-style to good old fashioned pub grub. For a Michelin Guide dinner experience, visit Tallow’s award winning restaurant.
Enjoy a tea, coffee or juice at one of the local cafés, grab a picnic from a local bakery (like the Family Rusbridge Bakery or the Earl Grey Tearoom) and go off on your wanders round the Common.
Southborough High Street is full of specialised stores and spaces that offer a great variety of products. Pop in to Hardmann and Hemming and get a bespoke suit from experienced tailors or go into Arty Farty and learn a new creative skill like calligraphy!
More things to do in Southborough.
Walking & Hiking
The Common has 75 acres of greenery and woodland to appreciate! You may also discover the beauty of the iconic Colebrook Viaduct.
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).
Southborough is also known as the home to two historical figures, both named David Salomons. One the famous human rights campaigner, the other his nephew, an inventor of international standing.
Their home, Salomons Estate, is now a large hotel and events venue within beautiful grounds. Here you can wander round the gardens, dine at the Bistro and even stay over in luxurious style. There is also a small museum containing memorabilia of the history of three remarkable generations of the Salomons family.
