Discover Tonbridge | A Visitor's Introduction to Tonbridge, Kent

Why is Tonbridge Worth a Visit?

Tonbridge is worth visiting for its rich history, dominated by the striking Tonbridge Castle, its charming high street, and its scenic riverside walks. The town is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great base for exploring the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and nearby Kentish attractions like Penshurst Place and Hever Castle. Tonbridge has a vibrant community with regular markets, cultural events, and a wealth of outdoor activities, ensuring visitors have plenty to see and do. Its blend of heritage, greenery, and local charm make Tonbridge a lovely place to experience Kentish life.

Tonbridge Highlights: Things to See and Do in Tonbridge

1. Tonbridge Castle
At the heart of the town lies Tonbridge Castle, one of the best-preserved motte-and-bailey castles in England. Built by the Normans in the 11th century, the castle has a long and dramatic history, from medieval sieges to Tudor transformations. Visitors can explore the impressive gatehouse, wander through the castle grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of the River Medway. There’s also a self-guided audio tour that takes you through the castle’s history, offering fascinating insights into its role in defending the kingdom. In the summer, the castle grounds host open-air theatre performances and community events, adding to the castle’s vibrant atmosphere.

2. River Medway and the Big Bridge
Tonbridge is beautifully situated along the River Medway, offering visitors scenic riverside walks and boating opportunities. The riverfront near the Big Bridge, which spans the Medway at the centre of town, is particularly picturesque, with plenty of spots to sit and watch the world go by. You can take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks or hire a rowing boat or kayak from Tonbridge River Trips to explore the waterway. The riverside also offers great views of the town’s historic buildings, including the castle and old town mills.

3. Haysden Country Park
Just a short walk from the town centre, Haysden Country Park is a beautiful green space offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. The park covers over 160 acres and features lakes, woodland, and meadows, making it ideal for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. The Tonbridge to Penshurst Cycle Route passes through the park, offering a scenic ride along the River Medway, while Barden Lake is popular for fishing and picnics. The park also has a children’s playground and café, making it a great destination for families.

4. Tonbridge High Street
Tonbridge’s bustling High Street is a blend of historic buildings and modern shops, offering visitors a vibrant shopping and dining experience. You’ll find a mix of independent boutiques, high street brands, and charming cafés. Macknade Fine Foods, a local favourite, is a must-visit for gourmet groceries, artisan produce, and local delicacies. The high street also features traditional pubs like The Humphrey Bean, housed in a converted church, and several great restaurants offering international cuisine. Don’t miss the Tonbridge Farmers’ Market, held on the second Sunday of each month, where you can sample local produce, crafts, and street food.

5. Penshurst Place and Gardens
Located just a few miles from Tonbridge, Penshurst Place is one of England’s most beautiful historic houses and gardens. This grand manor, originally built in 1341, has been home to the Sidney family for over 460 years. Visitors can explore the stunning medieval and Tudor interiors, including the impressive Baron’s Hall and the Elizabethan Long Gallery. The gardens, with their formal lawns, herbaceous borders, and orchards, are equally impressive, offering plenty of peaceful spots to wander. Penshurst Place also has a children’s adventure playground and regular family-friendly events, making it a great day out for all ages.

6. Tonbridge Swimming Pool and Racecourse Sportsground
For those looking for family fun or a way to unwind, the Tonbridge Swimming Pool offers both indoor and outdoor pools, complete with a lazy river, water slides, and splash areas for younger visitors. Adjacent to the pool is the Racecourse Sportsground, a large park with sports facilities, playgrounds, and a skate park. The sportsground, situated by the River Medway, also features open spaces perfect for picnics or a game of football, and its riverside paths are popular with joggers and cyclists.

7. Hever Castle
A short drive from Tonbridge takes you to the famous Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife. This stunning castle is steeped in Tudor history, and its interiors are filled with rich tapestries, portraits, and artefacts from the period. The castle is surrounded by magnificent gardens, including a yew maze, rose garden, and a picturesque lake. Hever Castle is a fantastic day trip from Tonbridge, offering visitors a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. During the summer, the grounds host jousting tournaments, open-air theatre, and garden tours, adding to the allure of this iconic Kent landmark.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Tonbridge is well-connected by both road and rail, making it easy to reach from London and other parts of Kent. By train, Tonbridge Station is on the mainline from London Charing Cross, London Bridge, and London Cannon Street, with journey times of around 40 minutes. By car, Tonbridge is easily accessible via the A21 and M25, and there are regular bus services connecting Tonbridge with nearby towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone, and Sevenoaks. The nearest major airport is London Gatwick, which is around 45 minutes away by car.

Parking:
There are several car parks in and around Tonbridge’s town centre. The Castle Car Park is conveniently located next to Tonbridge Castle, making it ideal for visitors exploring the castle and high street. Other options include Sovereign Way Car Park and Angel Centre Car Park, both of which are close to the town’s main shopping areas. Parking is generally affordable, though it can get busy during weekends and school holidays, so it’s advisable to arrive early if you’re visiting during peak times.

Dining:
Tonbridge boasts a great selection of restaurants, pubs, and cafés to suit all tastes. The Gatehouse is a popular restaurant offering modern British cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. For Italian food lovers, Havet on the high street is known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes. If you’re after a cosy pub meal, The George & Dragon in nearby Shipbourne serves hearty British classics in a traditional setting. For afternoon tea or a light lunch, Beyond the Grounds Café, located in the castle grounds, offers homemade cakes, sandwiches, and great coffee.

Shopping:
Tonbridge High Street is a great place to shop, with a mix of high street names, independent boutiques, and specialist shops. For unique gifts and local crafts, Pottery Box offers handmade pottery and ceramics, while Fromage & French is a must-visit for foodies looking to buy gourmet cheeses, wines, and deli items. The town also has a selection of fashion and homeware stores, making it easy to find something for everyone. The monthly Tonbridge Farmers’ Market is another highlight, offering fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

When to Visit:
Tonbridge is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is warm, and the town’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. This is also when Tonbridge Castle hosts outdoor events and concerts. Autumn is a lovely time to explore the surrounding countryside as the leaves change colour, while winter brings a quieter charm to the town, with festive markets and Christmas lights creating a cosy atmosphere.

Local Events:
Tonbridge has a busy calendar of events throughout the year, including the popular Tonbridge Castle Music Weekend in July, which brings live music and performances to the castle grounds. The town also celebrates Bonfire Night with a spectacular fireworks display on the racecourse. During the Christmas season, the Tonbridge Christmas Festival transforms the high street with festive lights, market stalls, and entertainment. The Tonbridge Carnival, held every summer, is another highlight, featuring a colourful parade, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Exploring Beyond Tonbridge:
Tonbridge’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Kent’s most famous attractions. A short drive away is the historic town of Tunbridge Wells, known for its elegant Georgian architecture and The Pantiles, a picturesque colonnade of shops and cafés. The medieval town of Sevenoaks, with its impressive Knole House and deer park, is also nearby. For those interested in outdoor activities, the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers plenty of scenic walking and cycling trails through Kent’s rolling countryside.