GUIDE
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
MUST-SHOP STORES
THE PANTILES A beautifully historic Georgian colonnaded walkway that beckons visitors far and wide to wander its well-trodden paths lined with cafés, bars, restaurants and independent shops, The Pantiles also plays host to an ever-changing roster of markets, special events and live music throughout the year. With unique treasures galore and historic sights at every turn, you’ ll want to carve out plenty of time here to explore.
© Joe Josland
TRINITY THEATRE This vibrant arts charity and cultural hub set within a beautifully renovated church has individuality and inclusivity at its very core. Alongside an artistic programme of comedy, music, theatre and independent cinema for all tastes and ages, Trinity Theatre also displays spaces for private hire and a welcoming café and bar.
SPA VALLEY RAILWAY Beloved for its picturesque High Weald journeys aboard an admirable collection of steam and heritage
ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE An award-winning shopping centre that has become a beacon of activity at the heart of the town centre, Royal Victoria Place is home to a vast collection of well-known brands, including glamorous department store Fenwick, alongside independent retailers and a selection of popular eateries.
DIVINE DINING
THE COUNTER Created from a love of classical cookery and a curious mind for new techniques, The Counter is headed up by heralded chef Robin Read and has quickly grown a glowing reputation for its pristine plates and exquisite tasting menus that highlight the finest seasonal and local produce. For those eager to experience its acclaimed 10-course tasting menu, take a seat at The Kitchen Counter, where every dish is served by Robin himself.
KUMQUAT
Award-winning and familyowned, the vibrant Kumquat presents mouthwatering Asian fine dining reimagined with a modern spin. Expect vivid flavours, tempting cocktails, genuine hospitality and a warming atmosphere crafted for connection.
THACKERAY’ S Elevated yet never pretentious, Thackeray’ s relaxed form of fine dining applies classic European culinary philosophies to modern dishes. With a penchant for provenance and an unwavering attention to detail, the restaurant is set within the former residence of author William Makepeace Thackeray- a characterful building which is more than 300 years old.
The Counter( top left) Thackeray’ s( bottom left)
diesel trains, Spa Valley Railway runs between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge, and also offers a wide array of themed events- from indulgent afternoon teas to family-friendly specials.
THE AMELIA SCOTT Bringing together art, heritage and learning all under one community-focused roof, The Amelia Scott comprises the town’ s museum, art gallery, library and education spaces alongside a myriad of inspiring exhibitions, creative workshops and uplifting activities for both little ones and their grown-ups.
BEWL WATER
SCOTNEY CASTLE © John Miller
Outdoor Spots
SCOTNEY CASTLE A truly enchanting medieval moated castle and Victorian country mansion nestled amongst rolling parkland and thriving gardens. Complete with a walled kitchen garden, ancient woodlands, hidden walkways and expansive far-reaching views, the 780-acre Scotney estate is alive with countless adventures to embark on. Alongside a cherished secondhand bookshop and natural play areas, visitors can also admire the wellloved mansion house which was built in the mid-19th century by Edward Hussey III.
BEWL WATER The largest reservoir in the South East, the extraordinary landscape of Bewl Water is open all year for outdoor explorations and adrenaline-fuelled activities. Walk, run, cycle or ride across 800 acres of parkland, spot wildlife, enjoy a day’ s fishing, or even take to the water for openwater swimming, the inflatable sports aqua park, pedalo hire and paddleboarding.
DUNORLAN PARK Once the private grounds of a grand mansion built by the Yorkshire-born millionaire Henry Reed, these varied Victorian gardens were created by renowned gardener Robert Marnock between the 1850s and 1860s. Today, Dunorlan is a thriving green space complete with beautiful Weald views, a café, play area and pretty meadows awash with wildlife.
58 • www. insidekent. co. uk