Things to Do Near
Salomons Estate
Make a weekend of your wedding, extend your cottage break, or simply explore — Kent’s finest attractions are on your doorstep.
Explore Kent & Sussex
Planning a wedding at Salomons Estate? Your guests will love having castles, vineyards, and country walks on their doorstep — perfect for making a weekend of the celebration. Staying in one of our cottages? You'll find enough to fill a week.
From medieval manor houses and award-winning English vineyards to lakeside adventures and vibrant independent shopping, here's our guide to the best things to do near Salomons Estate.
Historic Landmarks
Tunbridge Wells has drawn visitors since 1606, when Lord North discovered the iron-rich Chalybeate Spring. The Pantiles, the town’s elegant Georgian colonnade, remains the beating heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells — home to independent boutiques, artisan cafés, and a thriving weekend farmers’ market. The Amelia Scott, the town’s striking cultural centre, houses fascinating collections including examples of the world-famous Tunbridge Ware decorative woodwork.
Castles & Country Houses
Kent is known as the Garden of England, and nowhere is this more evident than in the magnificent castles and country houses within easy reach of Salomons Estate. Penshurst Place, one of England’s finest medieval manor houses, is just 15 minutes away. Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, offers stunning gardens and a fascinating Tudor history. The romantic ruins of Scotney Castle are surrounded by one of England’s most picturesque gardens. Wedding guests staying for the weekend can easily visit two or three in a single day.
Gardens & Nature
From the sweeping lawns of Dunorlan Park — a beautifully restored Victorian pleasure garden with boating lake — to the ancient woodland of Tunbridge Wells Common, nature lovers are spoilt for choice. High Rocks, a series of dramatic sandstone outcrops, offers scenic walking trails just minutes from the town centre. Further afield, Bedgebury National Pinetum is home to the world’s finest collection of conifers, with walking trails, cycling routes, and adventure play for all ages.
Dining & Afternoon Tea
Tunbridge Wells boasts a thriving dining scene, from Michelin-quality restaurants to cosy country pubs and artisan bakeries. The Pantiles and Chapel Place are home to many of the town’s finest independents. Of course, you needn’t venture far for an exceptional meal — Salomons Estate offers afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, and fine dining in our own elegant restaurant. It’s the perfect way to round off a wedding weekend or treat your cottage party to something special.
Shopping in Tunbridge Wells
Chapel Place and The Pantiles offer a curated selection of independent boutiques, galleries, and specialist shops far removed from the high-street chains. From antiques and vintage finds to artisan gifts and designer homewares, Tunbridge Wells is a destination for discerning shoppers. The weekly farmers’ market at The Pantiles is a highlight, featuring local producers and seasonal Kent produce.
Family Activities
Bewl Water, Kent’s largest reservoir and a Salomons sister venue, is the standout day out — offering sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, and lakeside walks just 20 minutes from the estate. Go Ape at Bedgebury offers tree-top adventures and zip-wire courses set amongst the pines. Perfect activities for wedding guests with families or for a cottage break with the children.
Arts & Culture
The Assembly Hall Theatre hosts a year-round programme of drama, comedy, music, and pantomime. The more intimate Trinity Theatre & Arts Centre, housed in a deconsecrated church, showcases independent film, live music, and community exhibitions. Throughout the year, Tunbridge Wells hosts festivals, open-air cinema, and cultural events that celebrate the town’s creative spirit.
Wine & Vineyards
The Kent and Sussex Weald has become one of England’s premier wine-producing regions. Chapel Down, the country’s most celebrated vineyard, offers tours and tastings just 30 minutes from Salomons Estate. Closer to home, Balfour Winery produces award-winning sparkling wines, whilst Squerryes in Westerham combines vineyard tours with stunning North Downs views. A vineyard tour makes an unforgettable addition to a wedding weekend or a cottage break.
Stay at Salomons Estate
With 47 bedrooms and 6 self-catering cottages set within 36 acres of beautiful grounds, Salomons Estate is the perfect base for a wedding weekend or a Kent countryside break. Give your guests — and yourself — more time to explore everything on your doorstep.
