With our beautiful office being nestled in the heart of The Pantiles, we had to spotlight the most historic area of Tunbridge Wells which draws locals and tourists to visit all year round. Below we share some of the delights of The Pantiles from its history and the famous Chalybeate Spring, the events  held on and around The Pantiles and the variety of specialist businesses it is home to today. We love this part of our town, and it is easy to see why.

The history of The Pantiles

The Pantiles, formerly known as “The Walks” and the (Royal) “Parade”, was created following the discovery of a Chalybeate Spring in the early 17th century. Due to the Georgian belief that the water possessed healing properties, the town became popular as a spa retreat and was frequently visited by royalty and high society.

The name of The Pantiles originated in 1699, when The Walks were paved in ‘pan tiles’ that were made from Wealden clay and shaped in wooden pans before firing. Princess Anne donated money to have them installed after a visit resulted in her son, The Duke of Gloucester, falling over on the slippery ground. Although no original ‘pantiles’ remain today – the tiles being replaced by harder wearing ceramic paving in 1792 - the elegant colonnaded walkway is the most iconic and photographed aspect of the town with Very’s Christmas advert and BBC’s Interior Design Masters having been recently filmed here.

The Chalybeate Spring

The natural Spring was discovered by a well-travelled English nobleman, who was refreshed after a late night  after drinking the iron-rich waters, leading to a firm belief in the waters ‘health-giving properties. The Chalybeate Spring has long been a draw to The Pantiles, where people have been encouraged to take the water, but the flow has, in recent years, been intermittent and in 2011 it was hit with higher than usual levels of harmful bacteria

The water has now undergone extensive filtration and testing and the Chalybeate Spring has been proudly reopened thanks to Samuel Danby, owner of Royal TW Water. If f you haven’t tried the spring water, pop by and give it a taste!

The Pantiles today

Retaining much of its original charm and grandeur of its Georgian heyday, The Pantiles and the surrounding area today is now arguably known for its famous jazz nights, diverse boutique shops and mix of popular cafes, restaurants and bars.

Which are the most popular events held in The Pantiles?

Jazz On The Pantiles: A hugely popular event that runs every Thursday from 7pm, in May until September each year. An evening of jazz music, alfresco dining and dancing!

Farmers’ Markets: Every weekend, from 10am – 4pm throughout May to December, Farmers Market’s are held, featuring a wide variety of local produce, tasty treats, antiques and artisan crafts.

Food Festivals: Twice yearly sees more than 500 products and flavours from over 30 local and national producers being showcased during the renowned food festivals. There are also special guest chefs cooking up a storm on stage, with a range of locally sourced produce.

Home to a wide variety of independent businesses

The Pantiles is also home to more than 70 independent businesses with some of our favourites and close neighbours being The Ragged Trousers, Sankey’s, The Wine Rooms, Hattons, Collared and Catherine Hills Jewellery.  And of course, we are proudly situated at 18 The Pantiles. We have been in our glorious office on The Pantiles since 2017 and can honestly say we are proud to be part of wonderful community of supportive businesses.

We are incredibly lucky to have our office in such a beautiful and historic location.  If you are ever in the area, please do come and say hello.