Imagine aristocracy seeking rejuvenation. That’s The Pantiles’ story. Today it stands as a historic Georgian colonnade in Royal Tunbridge Wells Kent. The Pantiles is known for its iconic architecture. It features over 70 independent shops cafes and art galleries.
The Pantiles’ story began in 1606. Dudley Lord North, an English nobleman discovered a mineral spring. He felt rejuvenated after drinking the reddish-brown water. Lord North declared the waters had healing properties. This discovery led to the creation of Tunbridge Wells. It quickly became a retreat for the aristocracy.
The Pantiles then known as The Walks became a social destination. Princess Anne and Queen Victoria visited for the healing waters. In 1698 Princess Anne funded the paving of the upper walks. This happened after her son slipped and fell while playing. The Walks were eventually paved with pantiles. These were clay tiles baked in a pan.
Today The Pantiles retains its Georgian columns and buildings. You can still visit the Chalybeate Spring. Sampling the water is still possible. It is now a bustling promenade. Here you find independent and boutique shops cafes and galleries.
Shopping is a key feature of The Pantiles. There is a mix of independent shops. These range from vintage boutiques to artisan shops. They offer handmade goods jewellery homewares and antiques. Shops include Catherine Hills Jewellery and HG Vintage Collectables Antiques.
Throughout the year The Pantiles hosts seasonal markets. These include craft fairs and a Christmas market. The Pantiles market is open every other weekend. From mid-November the Christmas market is open every weekend until Christmas Eve.
If you love al fresco dining you’ll love The Pantiles. There are many restaurants bars and cafes. You can find coffee and pastries a casual lunch or fine dining. Restaurants offer cuisines from around the world. Many have outdoor seating. The Ragged Trousers offers French brasserie dishes and British pub food.
There are also many cafes in The Pantiles. The Philanthropist café serves teas smoothies and coffee. They also have locally made cakes artisan bread and pastries. Pubs and bars are also a fixture. The Ragged Trousers offers a wide selection of craft beer wines and cocktails. The Sussex Arms is a traditional pub with live music. Charlotte’s On the Pantiles is an elegant café and bar. Lemons Bar is a craft cocktail bar.
The Pantiles hosts year-round events. These bring the community together. There are food festivals and live music. Every Thursday evening from May to September there is live music. Visitors can dine and drink outside. The annual Gin & Jazz festival is a popular event.
If you love art The Pantiles has galleries and art shops. Fairfax Gallery exhibits contemporary paintings and sculptures. The Spa Galleries represents local contemporary painters. Beumée Fine Art Gallery features artists from around the globe.
The Pantiles is a great place to visit all year round. During spring and summer you can enjoy greenery and flowers. Autumn brings colorful leaves. Winter transforms The Pantiles into a wonderland. The Pantiles Christmas market runs every weekend from mid-November until December 24th. The Pantiles Big Reveal and Lights Switch On are anticipated events.
To get to The Pantiles you can take a train to Tunbridge Wells. It’s a 10-minute walk from the station. There are several car parks nearby. Bus services also stop outside The Pantiles.
The Pantiles got its name from the clay tiles used to pave the walkway. The Pantiles is known for its Georgian architecture. It is also known for its independent shops and community events. It’s a picturesque street surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Pantiles offers family-friendly dining and events. Many events are free to attend. The Pantiles is a destination waiting to be explored.