While there’s so much for families to see and do at our unique Tunbridge Wells hotel, your visit won’t be complete without exploring all this delightful spa town has to offer.
Here is a quick run through of some family friendly ideas for brilliant days out during your stay at Salomons Estate. From long walks surrounded by nature to heart-thumping adventures on the water, there’s plenty to keep your family occupied.
-
Walk in the footsteps of gentry
After a leisurely breakfast the perfect way to start your day is with a family stroll through The Pantiles area. This gorgeous Georgian colonnade with its delightfully historic alleyways is home to an abundance of independent stores and cafes and the famous Chalybeate Spring. Take a sip from its iron-rich waters and discover its world-renowned health-giving properties. Children may wish to have a drink on hand to take away the rather unusual taste!
-
Investigate the town’s eventful past
The wonderful Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art gallery is currently undergoing a substantial renovation. However, your family can still find out about the town’s rich history through a self-guided walk. How about joining forces on the Royal Tunbridge Wells Code breaking Walk? The walk takes you through the parks, the Pantiles and the High Street to find your answers and solve the puzzle. Do you think you and your family have what it takes to do it? Take a picnic to one of the town’s picturesque spots and make a day of it.
Remember, our own Tunbridge Wells hotel has its own fascinating museum looking at the incredible Salomons family history. Take a look; you’ll be sure to find something to pique your interest.
-
Journey back in time on the Spa Valley railway
Trains are enjoyed by both young and old; so take a trip down memory lane on a heritage steam train. Grab yourselves an all-day unlimited travel ticket from the quirky rail station in town. The volunteer-run Spa Valley Railway travels through the beautiful Kent and Sussex countryside. Stops include the magnificent High Rocks and its popular inn and the village of Groombridge with its famous gardens and enchanted forest! Keep an eye out for great value special trips such as character event days, ‘kids for a quid’ days, and the ever-popular fish and chip luncheons.
-
Head off on a stunning country bike ride
If you fancy leaving town on just two wheels take a family excursion on one of the many cycle paths out of town. A popular one is the circular route starting and ending in Tunbridge Wells via Horsmonden. This route takes riders through picturesque villages and past some idyllic country pubs if you’re in need of a break.
-
Take a spot of tea in a stately home
Kent is lucky enough to be home to some rather grand stately homes set in exquisitely landscaped gardens. Our own Tunbridge Wells hotel is one of these and is a great place to rest-up after a busy morning sightseeing. Treat yourself to an indulgent afternoon feast with a selection of homemade sweet delights, a variety of finger sandwiches, all washed down with homemade scones and traditional tea. Adults could indulge further with a cheeky glass of Prosecco!
-
Channel your inner explorer at Chimera climbing
There are many interesting spots around Tunbridge Wells to try your hand at rock-climbing. Chimera in the town centre offers the finest indoor climbing with top of the range bouldering equipment for every level. The centre boasts a full-size competition wall as well as a dedicated training area with campus boards, fingerboards, a 40-degree wall, and more. Who knows, this could be the start of a brilliant new family pastime.
-
Picnic and play in the park
We really are spoilt for choice in Tunbridge Wells but two of our favourites are Dunorlan Park and Grosvenor Park.
Dunorlan is a popular family park with lots to explore including a boating lake, a natural play area for the kids, and plenty of opportunities for a relaxed family walk or picnic.
The large Grosvenor Park is the town’s oldest public park and still contains some original historic features, such as the lake and grottoes or ‘dripping wells’. With an outdoor adventure play area as well, it makes a great little trip for a traditional day out!
-
Go for a ride at Wellgrove Farm Stables
If your little ones want to learn to ride, check out the British Horse Society-approved Wellgrove Farm Stables at Pembury. Children can have lessons from age three years and upwards and enjoy a hack around the farm’s own private woodland area. Lessons start from around £17.50 or you can book children’s parties or even take part in the pony summer camp! The team will teach the children about all areas of horse ownership from grooming to the more mucky job of cleaning out the stables – all part and parcel of living with these magnificent creatures.
-
The Hollywood Bowl
Before dinner, take the whole family to The Hollywood Bowl where champions of all ages will have the opportunity to show off their bowling skills.
With lightweight bowling balls, ramps and bumpers this tenpin bowling centre knows how to do things right for families. As well as playing a good few rounds of bowling you could have a family challenge of arcade games, pool and a healthy dose of ‘Pacman Smash’ – good luck!
-
Discover the great outdoors
An invigorating day of outdoor activity is the traditional route to a happy family, and for good reason. Just 10 miles from Tunbridge Wells is Bewl Water where, come rain or shine, there’ll be lots to entertain the family. On the water you could fish, sail, windsurf or canoe. And if you’re feeling really competitive, challenge the family at the giant water obstacle course in the aqua park. On land the fun doesn’t stop with amazing adventure play and indoor soft play areas as well as Bewl Water’s Laser Challenge.
There are so many options for families staying at our wonderful Tunbridge Wells Cottages. Call our experienced team today and discuss our latest offers and upcoming events.