Discover the rich history and diverse landscapes of Royal Tunbridge Wells through a variety of captivating trails. Whether you’re a history enthusiast looking for forgotten stories, a nature lover seeking fresh air, or a family wanting quality time together, these trails offer something for everyone. Embark on a journey through time and nature, and uncover the hidden gems that make Tunbridge Wells so unique. Are you ready for your next adventure?
Pick up some trails and fill your day exploring:
Tales of Tunbridge Wells: Audio Trail App
History of the town comes alive with our immersive audio experience.
Take advantage of our free audio app ‘Tales of Tunbridge Wells’ which will give you a guided tour round 30 historic sites and sights of Royal Tunbridge Wells. Go at your own pace, pause and stop off for a break in a local hostelry when you like!
Even listen from the comfort of your own home! These audio postcards and picture galleries will give you a glimpse of this infamous and unique town. Follow the journey from the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606 to the flourishing, culturally rich town that exists today.
The contributors range from historians, local business owners, residents, landlords and reverends. Their anecdotes and facts provide a colourful and characterful insight into one of England’s first tourist destinations.
Highlights and Hidden Gems
- Meet the Dipper who performs the oldest job in Tunbridge Wells, the art of serving the precious waters at the Chalybeate Spring in the Pantiles, as she spins yarns and tells the untold secrets of our noble and Royal visitors from the past…
- Reverend Laurence Powell of King Charles the Martyr offers behind the scenes access at Tunbridge Wells’ oldest permanent structure, as he takes you through the history of the building including the most notable members of its congregation.
- At one of the town’s most architecturally noted churches, now Trinity Theatre, the Community and Visual Arts Manager, alongside a local historian and member of the Civic Society explain its architectural and cultural importance to the town.
- At renowned music venue The Forum, formerly housing a forge and then a public convenience, we learn about some of the world famous acts that have performed there and its contribution to the thriving music scene in the town today.
This is just a small example of the extensive catalogue of voices which appear on the app. Recorded during 2019, this unique offering captures the true essence of this surprising town. Interwoven through the narrative of individual voices, key themes are explored including architecture, innovation, literature, Royalty and religion.
Download from your usual app store and keep it to listen to again to reminisce of your time at the only Royal Spa Town in the South East of England!
This project has been realised through collaboration between The Amelia, Kent County Council and Visit Tunbridge Wells Tourism Service as well as being supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.
The app is GPS enabled. This is used to show you relevant content based on your location. Please note that you do not have to be in Tunbridge Wells in order to access any of the content in the app. However, as with all apps that use location, please note that continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life.
Heritage Walking Trail leaflet
As well as the free audio app, you can take a wander round Royal Tunbridge Wells at your leisure with the guidance of the Heritage Walking Trail leaflet, follow the burgundy coloured plaques and see the best bits! Download the leaflet or grab a copy from our tourist information points and take your time stopping off at the inviting cafes, shops and restaurants along the way.Â
If Mount Pleasant Road is too much of a climb, you can always hop on a bus to drop you off and return back down the hill later if you wish.
Children’s Audio Trail
Discover the Royal Tunbridge Wells Waters at the Chalybeate Spring and embark on a 30-minute children’s trail! This self-guided audio tour narrated by animated voices brings history to life through storytelling, guiding kids aged 5-12 on a journey around town’s key landmarks and revealing the fascinating story of the Chalybeate Spring and Royal Tunbridge Wells itself.
Family Treasure Trail: Uncover the Mystery!
Calling all junior detectives! Unravel the mystery of “Outrageous of TW” in this immersive detective trail through Royal Tunbridge Wells. Explore iconic landmarks like the Pantiles and Wellington Rocks, decipher cryptic clues, and crack the case before the disgruntled writer causes chaos! Perfect for families and solo adventurers (ages 6-106!), this 2.5-hour loop awaits. Stuck? Get hints via text, solve the puzzle, and enter the monthly £100 draw.
Quiz Trail: Fun for all ages!
Unleash your inner investigator on the Royal Tunbridge Wells Quiz Trail! This self-guided adventure weaves history, intrigue, and local secrets into a captivating quiz as you explore charming streets and verdant parks. Answer brain-teasing questions, uncover hidden gems, and learn captivating stories that bring the town’s past to life. Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers, it’s a fun-filled way to discover the magic of Royal Tunbridge Wells!
Buy and download the quiz now!
