IN ASSOCIATION WITH
48 Hours in
KENTSTAYCATION
ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS
BY OLIVIA RICCINI
ACQUIRING ITS ROYAL PREFIX FROM QUEEN VICTORIA ’ S ADORATION AND FREQUENT VISITS , THIS SPA TOWN REMAINS FIT FOR ROYALTY AND TOURISTS ALIKE , CONTINUING TO WELCOME INTRIGUED VISITORS FOR OVER 400 YEARS . BASK IN THE ELEGANT GEORGIAN LUXURY OF THE COLONNADED PANTILES AS YOU EXPLORE INDEPENDENT SHOPS , BARS AND RESTAURANTS OR TAKE A TRIP TO THE BEAUTIFUL HIGH WEALD AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY TO ADMIRE THE BREATH-TAKING KENTISH SCENERY IN WHICH THIS VIBRANT OASIS IS NESTLED .
THE PANTILES © David Hodgkinson SCOTNEY CASTLE © National Trust
Day One
BREAKFAST Priding themselves on the ‘ perfect roasted coffee bean ’ The Pantiles Café and Bar ( thepantilescafe . co . uk ) is the ideal way to start your weekend in Tunbridge Wells . Offering a flavourful menu with plenty of breakfast and brunch favourites to choose from , sit back and enjoy a plate full of fresh local produce with a South African twist . Sip a strong cappuccino whilst basking in the morning sun as the vibrant Pantiles that surround you start to liven up for the busy day ahead .
MORNING As you are already situated in perhaps Tunbridge Wells ’ most famous and buzzy attribute , now is the perfect time to explore
The Pantiles ( thepantiles . com ) and High Street . Created after the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in the early 17th century , historically The Pantiles was the place to visit to ‘ take the waters ’ but is now where tourists flock to experience its diverse mix of boutique shops , open air markets and famous jazz nights – it even boasts its own gin festival !
Embrace the original charm and Georgian grandeur of the architecture that surrounds you , as you meander around this unique shopping and dining destination .
LUNCH Set in the heart of the historic town , you will find Hoopers Department Store which now houses a branch of Kent ’ s traditional farm shop and deli treasure ,
Macknade ( macknade . com ). Macknade meticulously sources the very best seasonal Kentish produce , including meat from award-winning butchers , fresh fruit and vegetables as well as other high-quality deli items which make up their delicious menu . Try one of their platters to get a real taste of the goodness on offer and finish off with a slice of freshly baked cake . This experience is not just about eating and drinking either , Macknade Tunbridge Wells are also stocking some of their famously good retail items which are included on the menu so guests are able to ‘ try before they buy ’, as well as exquisite wine , beer and cider .
AFTERNOON Scotney Castle ( www . nationaltrust . org . uk / scotney-castle ) rises from its moat as if a castle from the pages of a fairy-tale . Built in the 14th century and set in a romantic award-winning garden , this National Trust treasure has over 770 acres of woodland to explore as well as the delights of a Victorian country mansion on its grounds . Enjoy some tea and cake in the tea-rooms and browse the gift shop to end your afternoon here . Whether you are wanting garden inspiration , a stunning picture for Instagram or a magical place to capture the imagination of children , you are guaranteed a day to remember .
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