Seated in the Garden of England, the picturesque town of Tunbridge Wells has much to offer.
From stunning castles in the Kent outdoors and scrumptious local produce to excellent transport links to London and beyond, it’s easy to see why living in Tunbridge Wells is so appealing.
But what’s it actually like to live here? Is Tunbridge Wells a nice place to live? Those considering a move to the area will, understandably, have many questions.
It’s crucial to research any potential new place to live, as your happiness there can depend on many factors. In this guide, we’ll explore things to do in Tunbridge Wells, what daily life is like and some of the best places to live in Tunbridge Wells to help you decide if it’s right for you.
What Makes Tunbridge Wells Such a Nice Place to Live?
Stunning Scenery
Bordering East Sussex and Kent High Weald, the scenery of Tunbridge Wells is painted with beautiful buildings and rolling hills across a stunning sky. The iconic Pantiles – a historic spot with independent shops across a tree-flanked, colonnaded walkway – offers an unparalleled shopping experience and is second only to the surrounding countryside.
Whether you fancy taking a stroll in the Groombridge Enchanted Forest or taking a dive into local history at nearby castles such as Hever, Scotney, or Chiddingstone, there are plenty of things to do in Tunbridge Wells to keep you occupied.
Quality Schools and Nurseries
Tunbridge Wells boasts an excellent education system, making it a great place to live for families with kids. There are nurseries attached to local independent schools, such as the Nursery at Sacred Heart Wadhurst, as well as options in nearby Tonbridge. Did you know that the Bright Horizons nurseries have been rated as Outstanding by Ofsted?
In addition to independent schools, there are also prep schools such as Holmewood House. At the heart of Tunbridge Wells lies Rose Hill School, which offers unique financial incentives for pupils, such as Year 7 and Year 8 awards. For primary schools, Claremont and St. James are popular among local families.
The educational setups in Tunbridge Wells include a number of Special Educational Needs (SEN) institutions. There are also state-funded faith schools as well as grammar schools for both boys and girls.
Transport Links
Living in Tunbridge Wells comes with excellent transport links, offering the best of both worlds. On the one hand, you can easily access the coast and countryside, which is perfect for weekend getaways. On the other hand, the town is well connected to neighbouring areas with efficient bus services.
London commuters will be pleased to know that high-speed trains to central stations such as Cannon Street, Charing Cross, Waterloo East, and London Bridge all take under an hour. Further afield destinations are within easy reach too, you can drive down the A26 for an ice cream in Brighton or hop on the M26 to reach Gatwick Airport in around 40 minutes.
Things to Do in Tunbridge Wells
The leisure amenities on offer are a testament to the town’s excellent work-life balance and are a big reason why so many people enjoy living in Tunbridge Wells. According to the UK Better Lives Index, Tunbridge Wells is the 10th best place to live in the UK.
Food and Dining
From Kiko Sushi & Yakitori for Japanese to Sankey’s for fish, the food scene in Tunbridge Wells is diverse and well-regarded. Central locations in town are ideal for dining out when shopping, with popular spots such as The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells, located opposite the Anthropologie Boutique.
In the evening, you can put down your shopping bags and enjoy a swanky cocktail at One Warwick Park. Gastropubs are plentiful, but The Kentish Hare in Bidborough and The Counter are among the standouts.
Shopping
Shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Tunbridge Wells, and with the range of shops to peruse, it’s no wonder. The Pantiles area is known for its Georgian colonnade of independent shops, boutiques, galleries, and cafés. At the same time, you can also shop all of your high street brands at the Royal Victoria Shopping Centre.
Local Events
Tunbridge Wells hosts several exciting events each year for locals and visitors alike. In the summer, the popular Gin & Jazz Festival at the Pantiles attracts large crowds. There are also regular film screenings, music nights, and a Comedy Club at the Trinity Theatre.
The Assembly Hall Theatre, which is the town’s main performance venue, has its own varied events calendar for the year. More recently, The Amelia Scott – a cultural hub featuring a library, art gallery, and museum – has grown in popularity, particularly due to the annual Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival.
Nearby Attractions
The attractions in and around Tunbridge never cease to amaze, be it Dunorlan Park with its boats and ducks or the popular ice skating rink at Calverley Grounds. Groombridge Farm Shop, just west of the town, is well known for its outstanding groceries and baked goods.
The village of Penshurst, which is only a 15-minute drive from town, has the famous Kingdom Café and Cycling Club for friends and family to relax. Tunbridge Wells also offers sports and fitness facilities at places such as Natural Fit and One Warwick Park Hotel. Just two miles from town is Penshurst Place & Gardens, a former hunting lodge of Henry VIII, making it a popular nearby attraction.
Housing in Tunbridge Wells
Given the attractive amenities the town has to offer, the housing market in Tunbridge Wells is fairly competitive. Both buyers and renters are drawn to the area. Rental properties are let swiftly, even for comparatively higher prices in the region.
Large, detached houses are characteristic of Tunbridge and are highly sought after by families. While these are usually expensive, unfurnished properties can offer better value compared to furnished alternatives, particularly for those planning a longer stay.
As of 2025, the overall average property price in Tunbridge Wells is approximately £518,000, with variations by property type. Average rent can be as high as £2,200 for a 3-bedroom property.
Best Places to Live in Tunbridge Wells
Those considering a move to Tunbridge Wells will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a neighbourhood to live in. This historic spa town boasts a mix of charming Victorian and Edwardian homes, leafy suburbs, and modern developments, all set against a backdrop of stunning parks and countryside. Whether you’re seeking a lively atmosphere with easy access to shops and restaurants, or a peaceful, family-friendly neighbourhood, Tunbridge Wells offers a variety of appealing options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
Let’s take a look at some of the best areas to live in Tunbridge Wells.
Southborough and St. John’s
For those with school children, St. John’s and Southborough are among the best places to live in Tunbridge Wells. There are plenty of top-rated primary and secondary schools in the area offering excellent choices when it comes to education. Furthermore, they’re a stone’s throw from the High Brooms train station with direct services to London for commuting parents.
Hungershall Park and Nevill Park
Hungershall Park and Nevill Park are two of the most prestigious places to live in Tunbridge Wells. Colossal houses in the area are often split into multiple apartments. These sprawling country residences offer incomparable views of lush green fields and meadows and are conveniently located close to the town centre.
The Village
The property market in The Village features modern homes with a period character. Houses here are placed at different angles on roads that wind up and down from the High Street. While the area is highly sought after by young professionals, the availability of large homes with courtyard gardens on Claremont Road also makes it ideal for families. Plus, the area is close to Grove Park and Claremont Primary, which is notorious for its repeated ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings.
Camden Park
Camden Park is known for its leafy surroundings and excellent walking routes, offering a strong sense of tranquillity. That being said, it is by no means far from town. The houses are roomy, have their own character, and feature private, spacious parking and generous gardens, often backing onto common land.
Langton Green
This beautiful green village is a highly sought-after place to live around Tunbridge Wells. The Hare is a fantastic place to dine, and Rusthall, with its brilliant shops such as The Daily Bread, makes shopping extremely convenient for residents. Further afield are the family-friendly communities of Pembury and Crowborough with independent shops and supermarkets.
In summary, Tunbridge Wells offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning Georgian architecture, the convenience of its transport links, or its vibrant cultural scene, it’s a place that effortlessly balances tranquil countryside living with all the perks of a bustling town. This Kentish town offers the perfect middle ground where tradition meets contemporary comfort, making it an ideal place to live for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a well-rounded lifestyle.
Quality of Life in Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells continually ranks as one of the most desirable places to live in the South East and in the UK, which is partly why so many people love living there. And it’s not without reason, either. The beauty and strong schooling system are a big factor, as well as convenient links to London and a positive sense of community. Let’s investigate a few reasons why the quality of life in Tunbridge Wells is so high, while also considering a few drawbacks of living in the area.
A Healthier, Happier Lifestyle
There’s no doubt about it – Tunbridge Wells is a beautiful place to live. Surrounded by the High Weald AONB, the town offers an active lifestyle with easy access to countryside walks, parks, woodlands and more. Healthcare is another win for the area, as it’s served by an array of well-rated GP surgeries and the modern Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury.
The Cost of Living: More Than Average, but Manageable
As we’ve already highlighted, living in Tunbridge Wells isn’t the cheapest option in Kent. That being said, many residents feel the quality of life justifies the cost. According to recent estimates:
The average monthly cost for a single person (excluding rent) is around £750–£850, covering essentials like food, transport, and utilities.
Dining out, transport, and utilities tend to be higher than the UK average, but still significantly more affordable than in London.
Living in Tunbridge Wells: FAQs
Is Tunbridge Wells a nice place to live?
Recently ranked the 10th best place to live in the UK, Tunbridge Wells is widely regarded as a desirable town in the South East. Offering beautiful scenery, great schools, convenient transport links and a vibrant community, it’s ideal for families, retirees and professionals alike.
What are the best places to live in Tunbridge Wells?
Popular neighbourhoods include Southborough and St. John’s for families, The Village for a mix of period and modern homes, Langton Green for village charm and Camden Park for stunning surroundings.
How easy is it to commute from Tunbridge Wells?
High-speed trains connect Tunbridge Wells to London in less than an hour, and the town is well linked by bus routes and road networks. The A26 and M26 provide access to coastal towns and Gatwick Airport.
What is Tunbridge Wells famous for?
Tunbridge Wells is famous for its historic spa heritage, the Pantiles colonnade, elegant Victorian and Georgian architecture, and its location in the scenic High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
If living in Tunbridge Wells is on the cards for you, our Tunbridge Wells removals branch will be best equipped for making your relocation smooth and stress-free.
With a legacy spanning 170+ years, you can trust us with your move. In the meantime, our pre-move checklist will help you keep those moving-day nerves at bay.
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