Rainy days in Tunbridge Wells: A Grown-Up Guide
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. In fact, it’s an invitation to indulge in cosy retreats and delectable discoveries.
Got that rainy day feeling?
On the days when the sun isn’t shining, don’t sit around wondering what to do; head indoors and discover some of the things to do in Tunbridge Wells on a rainy day. Forget the umbrella, grab your appetite, and embrace the pitter-patter with these insider tips for a grown-up adventure:
Culture vultures.
Theatre Time: Dry off with a matinee at the historic Assembly Hall Theatre or the intimate Trinity Theatre. From Shakespearean classics to witty contemporary comedies, there’s a performance to warm your soul. Browse what’s on.
Art Galleries: Seek refuge in the vibrant Fairfax Gallery, where contemporary exhibitions and captivating collections offer an inspiring escape from the downpour. Discover our local art galleries.
History Hunters: Unravel the town’s rich past at the Amelia Scott. Discover secrets of royal visits, fascinating local characters, and the town’s spa heritage. Take a seat in this impressive building and listen to our town audio guide.
Indulge your inner ‘Bon Vivant’.
Retail Rainstorm: Brave the charming, covered Pantiles arcade, a Victorian haven of independent boutiques, antique shops, and delightful tearooms. Find hidden treasures, unique gifts, and escape the drizzle in style.
Afternoon Splurge: Pamper yourself with a decadent afternoon tea at one of Tunbridge Wells’ renowned establishments. The Ivy’s Art Deco glamour offers delicate finger sandwiches and exquisite cakes, while The Spa Hotel’s Orangery boasts panoramic views and melt-in-your-mouth scones with clotted cream.
Foodie Voyage: Embark on a culinary journey through Tunbridge Wells’ diverse gastronomic scene. Sample award-winning local cheeses at The Tunbridge Wells Cheese Shop, savour a melt-in-your-mouth steak at The Warren, or indulge in a fine dining tasting menu at Thackeray’s. Browse our eat & drink pages and foodie articles for more inspiration. If you’d like to immerse yourself in a culinary experience, be sure to browse the Ashdown Manna Cookery School classes.
Rainy Day Spa: Tunbridge Wells’ rainy days beckon with luxurious escapes, from Victorian grandeur massages to fairy-lit facials. Slip into the pool, sauna and steam room at The Spa Hotel, or enjoy a relaxing massage at One Warwick Park. Let the rain become a soundtrack to your pampering, find out more in our Spa Breaks article.
Embrace the playful spirit of grey days.
Board Game Blitz: Challenge your friends to a strategic showdown at a pub with board games. Warm up with hot drinks and delicious snacks while choosing from classic board games – laughter and friendly competition guaranteed!
Escape the rain: Tunbridge Wells isn’t just about tea and scones! Underneath its genteel facade lies a pulse of adrenaline-pumping adventure waiting to be unlocked. Step into the world of escape rooms, where your mind becomes your weapon and teamwork is the key to freedom. In Clue Cracker, crack the codes of a prison break or unravel the secrets of a hidden temple. For a touch of historical intrigue, venture into the depths of Darkmaster Escape Rooms and escape the clutches of a Victorian villain. You might also want to play a game of Shuffle Boarding after you escape!
Cinema Chic: Cosy up in the unique atmosphere of The Kino in Hawkhurst, a charming boutique cinema housed in a converted church. Catch a quirky indie film, a classic favourite, or snuggle up with a glass of wine during a special rainy-day film series.
Explore Creativity: Just outside the village of Brenchley, the Ceramic Studio awaits, where lumps of clay morph into vases, dishes, and sculptures under the guidance of skilled potters. Unleash your inner artist at Splash n’Dash, in Hawkhurst, where wine and paint swirl together on mugs, plates, and tiles (specific dates). Or find peace in the rhythmic knots of macrame at Knot Works, in Southborough, weaving stories onto wall hangings and bracelets.
Sometimes you have to create your own sunshine.
The Wealden Church Trail: Skip the drizzle and embark on a historical adventure through time! Dodge the rain drops by car and explore the unique stories woven into the fabric of the Wealden Churches. From the charming simplicity of Ashurst’s St Martin to Cranbrook’s majestic “Cathedral of the Weald,” each church whispers tales of its era. Don’t miss Tudeley’s Chagall windows or Speldhurst’s Burne-Jones and Morris masterpieces – download the trail leaflet for your own architectural treasure hunt. Or, ditch the itinerary and stroll through idyllic towns, indulging in the ultimate English treat: a quintessential afternoon tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, or perhaps even a cheeky glass of champagne. Let the Wealden region reveal its magic – rain or shine, it promises timeless charm and delicious delights.
Go on a Road Trip! For a carefree tour, why not follow the scenic driving tour around the Weald of Kent, through a rich landscape of orchards, rolling countryside and vineyards, taking in the most picturesque villages along the way. The villages are more than just pretty places to visit. Each one has its own character and community, with tea-rooms, shops, and pubs waiting to welcome the visitor.
Bonus Tip: Check our events calendar for special rainy-day activities, from pottery painting workshops to book readings and pub quizzes. You might just discover a hidden gem!
Remember, rain doesn’t dampen Tunbridge Wells’ charm, it simply enhances its cosy appeal. So pack your appetite, grab your curiosity, and embrace the joy of a rainy day in this delightful English region.
