Four new heritage plaques and a new trail map will help local residents and visitors discover more about the people, places, and stories that have shaped Hawkhurst’s unique heritage. Project background Early in 2024, as part of a community led project, Hawkhurst residents were asked to take part in a survey to discover how they would like to celebrate and preserve the unique heritage stories of Hawkhurst.  One idea, suggested by a number of people, was to produce more heritage plaques. The original 16 plaques, created in 2009, were part of a similar project between the local history society and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.  The plaques celebrate prominent people and cultural landmarks of Hawkhurst and are located in central Hawkhurst and the local surrounding area.  It felt the right time to add four more plaques to the trail and to update the map. Four new plaques Over 50 suggestions were submitted, these were then filtered down to a shortlist of nine.  A panel of residents, Councillors, and Amelia staff came to together to discuss and vote on the final four. Those chosen were: Babies Castle - Originally built as a Dr Barnardo’s home for babies and children under 5, the building no longer exists and is now the site of Hawkhurst House Care Home. Lillesden House – Built as a home for Edward Lloyd, High Sherrif of Kent, it became a hospital during WW2, was a prep school until 1998, and finally converted into flats. Fanny Hopkins (1834-1914) - a former (and possibly the first women) bank agent who lived and worked at Highgate House. John Hunt (1937-2023) - a Parish Councillor, Scout leader, and photographer who was involved in many community projects. Illustrated trail map Local illustrator Imogen Partridge was commissioned to design a new map highlighting the heritage plaque locations, including the four new ones.  The map is a useful tool to discover more about the history of Hawkhurst.  Most of the trail can be accessed by foot, with a few sites best reached by bike or car. The new plaques have been installed around Hawkhurst, together with interpretation panels at The Moor and Highgate featuring Imogen’s illustrated map. An online version of the map, which includes longer descriptions of the people and places on the trail, is now available. Download map

This article shows the exciting new experiences for visitors to Royal Tunbridge Wells. Whether you want to shop, eat good food or enjoy the summer weather, our town has something for you!

Royal Tunbridge Wells boasts a surprising wealth of car-free day trips, catering to every interest. This guide unlocks a treasure trove of experiences accessible by train, bus, or even by steam train. Read on to find out more about great Car Free Days Out from Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Enjoy the great outdoors and visit an outdoor cinema event in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells this summer.

Are you looking for something fun for your team or organisation to get stuck into? Find out more about some great corporate events and team away days! Tunbridge Wells is home to some great spaces for your team to really bond.

Royal Tunbridge Wells is one of the most dog-friendly towns in Kent. We've listed all of the dog-friendly shops in Royal Tunbridge Wells, to make shopping with your furry companions even easier!

When the weather heats up, there’s nothing better than a great British beer garden. And there are so many great options to pick from in Tunbridge Wells. Whether you’re looking to pair your pub visit with a walk, National Trust property or are in need of something to entertain little ones, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our roundup of the best beer gardens in and around Tunbridge Wells… The Poacher and Partridge, Tudeley Situated in sprawling countryside, The Poacher and Partridge is another rural pub, perfect for families with a wonderful play area and plenty of area for little ones to run around. Adults will love the views across farmland and the outdoor shacks to sit in! View website Mount Edgcumbe, Royal Tunbridge Wells Sitting on the edge of Royal Tunbridge Wells town, the Mount Edgcumbe’s beer garden is beautiful. Ideal to combine with a trip to the town centre, or a walk along Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons. View website The Vineyard, Lamberhurst A beautiful terrace, pizza oven, children’s play area and extensive garden area. Plus, there’s a wonderful walk to nearby Scotney Castle that departs from the pub! View website The Queen's Inn, Hawkhurst The terrace outside The Queen’s Inn in Hawkhurst is well worth a visit. Beautiful on a summer’s day, this hotspot is conveniently located on the road between Rye and Royal Tunbridge Wells. View website The Barn, Royal Tunbridge Wells Another Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre option, The Barn has a beautiful garden tucked away from the busy streets. Serving up traditional pub food, it’s a great option for meeting friends or stopping off after shopping in town! View website The Bucks Head, Sevenoaks Sitting just outside of Tunbridge Wells in neighbouring Sevenoaks, this is a great pub option if you’re looking for a dog-friendly venue, on the edge of Knole and with an award-winning roast. It's well worth the journey. View website The Milk House, Sissinghurst Great for the whole family, The Milk House has its own playground in the pub garden and fantastic views across the fields. You can couple a trip here with a visit to nearby Sissinghurst Castle or the quaint town of Cranbrook! View website The Beau Nash, Royal Tunbridge Wells Another town centre pub, The Beau Nash is named after an important figure in the history of Tunbridge Wells. The pub itself sits on Mount Ephraim and has a wonderful outdoor terrace that is a sun trap when the weather is good! View website The Goudhurst Inn, Goudhurst  For a more rural pub, The Goudhurst Inn offers a beautiful seating area outside. Benefitting from a beautiful countryside surrounding it, this may be the perfect pub for [...]

The glorious landscape which characterises the borough of Tunbridge Wells is the perfect backdrop for creating special memories this year.Whether you’re are seeking a challenge, or simply looking to cancel out the Christmas calories and escape the indoor fuggy feeling, the area contains both extensive walking trails and pretty, undulating rambles that won’t push you unnecessarily.

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Lace up your walking shoes, grab your reusable cup, and explore some of Tunbridge Wells best walks with tea rooms and cafes to relax and reward yourself with a delicious piece of cake!

In the mood to pull on your wellies and set off with a family on a refreshing walk, ideally ending up at a cosy, country pub? Tunbridge Wells is filled with scenic trails, historic woodlands, picturesque villages and charming countryside to explore and an even greater number of welcoming pubs to relax in afterward.

We asked our residents where to find the best Sunday roast in Tunbridge Wells.

Ever wondered how to spend an afternoon in Rusthall? Here's how to explore the quaint village, just 2 miles to the west of Tunbridge Wells.

Clare Lush-Mansell, founder of My Tunbridge Wells is back with more reasons why she loves Tunbridge Wells from the shopping, well-positioned location and its rich history and culture.

Hear from Clare Lush-Mansell, founder of My Tunbridge Wells who has now lived in Tunbridge Wells for 17 years and why she thinks Tunbridge Wells is such a teriffic place to live.

Local foodie, Charlotte, shares her favourite places to eat and drink around Cranbrook. A charming town with weatherboarded houses, a windmill and quaint high street.

You might be surprised to learn that Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding area has fascinating links to the shaping of America. From the Founding Fathers to champions of liberty, Tunbridge Wells boasts a rich connection to the American story, waiting to be explored by curious visitors.

Kent has an abundance of things to do and see. Whether it be the perfect weekend getaway in our vibrant towns and villages or a week-long heritage and nature exploring stay, we have something for everyone.

Looking for something quintessentially British to do on your visit to Tunbridge Wells? Let us introduce you to The George Pub and Fonthill Brewery, where the tradition of pub culture meets the art of brewing!

Make the most of the warm summer months and Kentish countryside in Tunbridge Wells. From historic gardens to green spaces, cycling adventures and so much more!

Tunbridge Wells lies at the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which provides a home for many scarce plants and animals.

Make the most of the warm summer months and Kentish countryside in Tunbridge Wells. From historic gardens to green spaces, cycling adventures and so much more!

My Tunbridge Wells shares her favourite restaurants to rekindle the romance in Tunbridge Wells with a delightful dining experience. Discover a table for two at a charming restaurant, indulge in exquisite flavours, and create unforgettable memories.

Enjoy historic, rural, idyllic golf courses in Tunbridge Wells on a golf holiday! The best hotels & golf courses in Tunbridge Wells for your next golf mini break.

Relish the tranquillity of fishing in Tunbridge Wells. The thriving waters of the Weald of Kent can be enjoyed by day and half-day anglers at one of nine fisheries in this area.

Fear not, families! When the clouds gather and the pitter-patter starts, this delightful area has a hidden treasure trove of indoor activities guaranteed to keep little ones (and big ones!) entertained.

Although we are known as “sunny Tunny” for a reason, even we have the occasional day of rain! Here is some inspiration to make the most of your holidays no matter the weather

Tunbridge Wells is more than just a charming towns & villages; it's a hidden gem for family-friendly cycling adventures! So grab your helmets, crank up the pedal power, and prepare to explore the picturesque landscapes and hidden gems around Tunbridge Wells with your little explorers.

Tunbridge Wells beckons with a range of cooking schools and experiences, promising you, your friends, or your family an unforgettable foodie experience.

Choose your preferred adventure – join a hack, explore pony trekking routes, or enhance your skills with a lesson.

Unleash your inner explorer on walks designed for everyone! From gentle rambles through manicured gardens to sensory trails, Kent’s countryside caters to all adventurers, big and small.