Explore the Best of Kent’s Countryside from the Heart of the High Weald

Looking for a UK break where you can explore on foot at your own pace? With so many places to discover including ancient woodland, forests, historic houses with beautiful estate walks to a marathon-length circular trail. Take a look at some of our top recommendations for enjoying the great outdoors in the Garden of England on a walking holiday.

Decorative Curved lines
Decorative Curved lines

Welcome to the High Weald

Thanks to its position in the High Weald National Landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) the countryside surrounding Tunbridge Wells makes the perfect walking spot. With routes that traverse the towns and villages, a marathon length circular walk through countryside or taking a trek through one of the many forests or nature reserves. Tunbridge Wells places you right in the centre of some of the best walking routes in Kent — the famous “Garden of England.” We’ve rounded up the best walking routes in the area, where to stay and what else to see and do on a walking holiday in Tunbridge Wells.

Popular tourist attractions in Tunbridge Wells

Spa Valley Railway

Hop on board a steam or diesel train and travel through the countryside in style. With vineyards, beautiful villages and walking routes to enjoy at every station.

medieval castle

Scotney Castle

Often described as a fairytale castle, Scotney is one of the National Trust’s hidden gems. Visit for beautiful gardens, medieval ruins and beautiful estate walks.

The Pantiles

The Pantiles

The Georgian colonnaded walkway is one of the most beautiful spots in Royal Tunbridge Wells lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. Plus, with boutique shops and the historic Chalybeate spring there’s plenty to do.

Vineyard

Birchden Vineyards

Set just outside Groombridge, Birchden Vineyards is the ideal day out for wine tasting, a picnic among the vines and vineyard tours.

Walking hotspots in Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells is surrounded by some of Kent’s most beautiful woodlands, lakes and nature reserves, making it an exceptional base for a walking holiday. From peaceful forests to sweeping waterside paths, here are some of the best local spots to explore on foot.

Bedgebury Pinetum in Autumn

Bedgebury Pinetum

Just a short drive from Tunbridge Wells, Bedgebury is one of the finest collections of conifers in the world. Its network of waymarked trails winds through towering trees, tranquil ponds and carefully managed woodland. Whether you’re after a gentle family walk or a longer forest hike, Bedgebury offers a stunning natural backdrop in every season.

Man walking through woods

Hargate Forest

Situated right on the edge of Tunbridge Wells, Hargate Forest is a peaceful escape managed by the Woodland Trust. Ancient woodland, open heathland and wide sandy paths make it ideal for a relaxed stroll or a short morning walk. In spring and early summer, the forest comes alive with birdsong, wildflowers and vibrant greenery.

Hemsted Forest

Sitting just outside Cranbrook, Hemsted Forest is a beautiful place to walk and enjoy a spot of peace and tranquillity. With five miles of hardstanding, its ideal for walking or cycling and a great way to enjoy the woodland.
Pathway through forest

Broadwater Warren

This RSPB reserve sits just outside Tunbridge Wells and is a fantastic example of restored heathland. Boardwalks, clearings, woodlands and open vistas give Broadwater Warren a wonderfully varied landscape. If you’re lucky, you might spot nightjars, woodlarks or the reserve’s famous dartford warblers during your walk.
Tunbridge Wells Common

Itineraries: A three night walking holiday 

Stay in the heart of the Georgian spa town Royal Tunbridge Wells and enjoy daily walks out into the surrounding countryside. Take in the High Weald countryside and enjoy some of the best known attractions along the way!

Walking

With some of the best landscapes in the country and a fantastic choice of public footpaths, the best way to see the glorious countryside of Kent and Sussex that surrounds Royal Tunbridge Wells is on foot.

Cycling

Cycling is an exhilarating way to really explore the Garden of England and see the idyllic countryside in this area known as the Weald of Kent.

Itineraries

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s plenty to do in Royal Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding areas. For a fantastic trip full of memories, explore our exciting itineraries, from weekend ideas to longer stays.

Outdoor activities

Adventure awaits! Walk, cycle, fish, sail, or horseback ride through open spaces and woodlands. Discover rich wildlife, geology, and history.

You may also be interested in: