The Tunbridge to Tonbridge Treck

It was time to pick up T from a boarding school near Tonbridge, where according to him, he had been locked away for a week on a choir camp i.e. there were rules!

As we were at a loose end on that day, we decided to make a day trip of it by travelling to Tonbridge via the similarly named but supposedly more up market Tumbridge! I am sure this has caused confusion to many before me.

Before setting off early, I was surprised to learn that Tumbridge was a mere 30miles from London (basically in Kent) - perfect! Apparently a popular day trip for people wanting a break from frantic city living.

As we arrived, I did the usual attempt to find free parking slightly further out from the town. Unfortunately, this was a no go with double yellows galore - obviously a trick tried by many before. 

Decision enforced, in we drove into the standard multi storey town car park. To our surprise the car park only charged £4 for 4 hours - bargain! More than enough time to wonder around and get some lunch. 

As we walked from the car, it was a short walk into the main high street full of lovely independent eateries and shops. 

A little further from the main high street leads you to the main attraction of RTW - The Pantiles and the historic Chalybeate Spring.

The story goes that Lord North discovered the Chalybeate spring in 1606, he spread the word about the amazing effects of the water. Eventually Queen Henrietta Maria visited in 1629 to also “take the water”, followed by successive Royals including Charles II, James I, Catherine of Breganza, Queen Anne and Queen Victoria! Apparently this is why King Edward VII gave the town the Royal prefix in 1909 - one of only three towns in England to have this prefix - can you name the others?

Conveniently, and not to miss a money making opportunity, there was a vending machine next to the spring. Here you can purchase the magical water in a number of flavours for an eye watering £4.50!

The water has exceptionally high levels of Iron, Magnesium, Zinc and Calcium and is good for hangovers! Might get T to "drop-ship" this as one of his get rich quick schemes.

Having soaked up the sights and sounds of RTW, it was off to the similarly sounding Tonbridge.

In usual style, I had to pack in a couple of activities in route. Always tricky with kids nowadays who prefer short quick experiences similar to what they get online.

First bonus activity (for me) was the Royal Tumbridge Wells Spa Hotel to sample the bar and grounds and check out the pool!

After an angry exchange to get everyone to come in, we entered the old but modern interior of the hotel. Very nice indeed. A nice garden to sip a cool drink during what had become a very hot day.

A short walk away takes you into a pleasent woodland walk where you can relax and contemplate between the expensive treatments.

After what seemed a short time relaxing, there was a sudden wish to leave this, according to some, boring environment. As we walked out we swung via the amazingly advertised swimming pool which in reality was very tiny. Next door to this was a tiny plain white room with a few dumbbells which presumably was the gymnasium! A lesson on cross checking facilities with actual traveller photos! Let’s just say I will not be staying here any time soon at current prices.

Now time for excursion number 2. The Rocks! No not Rock Bottom but a known tourist spot which consists of walks across high ancient rock formations via rope bridges! Think Go Ape for old people.

Having satisfactorily fitted in some interesting spots en-route, it was time for the main reason for our trip - retrieving T from Tonbridge. 

Driving in to Tonbridge, we went through what was a very long high street. We parked up by the Tonbridge Castle an ex Norman Strong Hold, Mott and Bailey Castle (11th century), a Gatehouse and Wall (13th century), seized by Henry VIII and bought by the town in 1897 and the seat of local government in 1974! That’s a lot of history! 

After a quick coffee next to the picturesque River Medway it was time for T. 

After a wonderful concert which showcased the instrumental talents of the boys, where T impressed with his Oboe and site reading (as we never see him practise!), our pleasant day trip was done. 

On a side note, which regular frequenter AG was amused by, the Wetherspoons pub chain appears to be taking over historic buildings! 

The Opera House in RTW has been invaded

Plus the Old Post Office in Tonbridge.

Maybe this is the only way left to preserve these buildings!