© David Hodgkinson
THE PANTILES
CHIMERA CLIMBING BEWL WATER
Today , Royal Tunbridge Wells is still very much a thriving and go-to destination . Years upon years of high-calibre characters and additions of beautiful architecture have granted the town a classic and original style with an unwavering air of timeless sophistication . Although prosperity and charm have evolved since the rakish days of the 18th century , these qualities never left , meaning today it is still a popular place brimming with businesses , activities , restaurants and hotels that have all taken inspiration from the town ’ s identity . Perhaps one of the most famous areas that accommodates these eateries and shops is The Pantiles ( www . thepantiles . com ). A lovely shaded walk lined with elegant shops and even overhung in places with its original ‘ musick balcony ’, the Pantiles was originally a grass area known as ‘ The Walks ’. When Princess Anne visited with her young son in 1699 , he slipped and hurt himself . As a result , the princess complained and demanded that the area be paved with tiles - made in a pan . Only 15 of the original pantiles remain ; these would have seen raucous fun including gambling , balls and concerts - the latter of which can still be enjoyed in the town . The Forum Live Music Venue ( www . twforum . co . uk ) is one of the best places to watch live music acts and attend club nights , with a standing capacity of 250 . The month of March will see exciting performances including Boogie Nights , Back to the 80s and many more . If you are more of a theatre lover and would rather take in a play or musical , Trinity Theatre ( www . trinitytheatre . net ) will never disappoint . As well as traditional plays , Trinity Theatre also shows film screenings , community theatre , comedy and more . A varied array of performances means there will be something to suit everyone , no matter their age or interests .
As well as cultural trips , Tunbridge Wells also comes with its fair share of adventurous activities . For families and those needing an energetic day out , visit the likes of Chimera Climbing ( www . chimeraclimbing . com ) or Bewl Water ( www . bewlwater . co . uk ). Chimera is a modern , indoor bouldering gym offering an exciting climbing experience for people of all ages and abilities . The centre has a variety of different angled walls posing unique challenges , as well as a dedicated training area with campus boards , fingerboards , a 40-degree wall and more . For brighter days during which the great outdoors calls , visit nearby Bewl Water , the largest reservoir in the South East . With miles of scenic pathways to walk , cycle , run or ride and hundreds of protected species to discover , you will never get bored at Bewl . Fuel up after all the excitement at Bewl ’ s café , which has stunning views of the reservoir and serves light bites , good coffee and dreamy hot chocs for little ones .
As well as new and energetic activities , Tunbridge Wells also comes complete with a wealth of history , not only in the town itself but in the acres of beautiful countryside that surround it . It claims many of Kent ’ s castles and historic homes , now open to the public to enjoy and explore . One such example is Penshurst Place ( www . penshurst place . com ) which lies just a 15-minute drive away from the centre of the town . More than just a mighty ancient house that saw many infamous guests , including Henry VIII who used it as his hunting lodge , Penshurst boasts an array of exciting things to see and do . Standing since the 14th century , the medieval Baron ’ s Hall was completed in 1341 and was crowned with an original 60ft high chestnut-beamed ceiling . This is still an unmissable sight for visitors today who may recognise the property as the setting to many TV dramas and big screen movies . After exploring the rest of the opulent state rooms , venture outside to be inspired by the beautifully designed gardens and grounds or use up extra energy at the adventure playground , woodland trail or with their country bike hire . Penshurst Place is also home to a charming toy museum , displaying interesting toys and books from across the centuries . Finish the day here with a trip to Porcupine Pantry , serving everything from drinks and cakes to sandwiches and paninis .
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