Tunbridge Wells, a town in Kent renowned for its stunning parks and historical landmarks, holds the distinction of being one of the few UK towns to have been bestowed with a Royal title. This charming locale has been a magnet for Royal families over the centuries.
Nestled in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Tunbridge Wells is a must-see destination for locals and tourists alike. With that in mind, KentLive has delved into the history of the town’s oldest building, The Parish Church of King Charles the Martyr.
This Grade I-listed building was inaugurated in 1676 under the supervision of English project-manager and politician Thomas Neale. Dedicated to King Charles I, who was executed in 1649, this church was the first significant structure in Tunbridge Wells.
The National Churches Trust describes its ornate ceiling as a spectacular display “festooned with fruit, cherubs heads and palms, plasterwork of the highest quality executed by craftsmen who had worked for Wren”. According to the trust’s website: “In 1835, then aged 16, Princess Victoria attended worship at King Charles church with her mother. The pair sat together in the north gallery”.
Initially constructed as a chapel using red bricks, the church didn’t have a resident vicar until 1709. It underwent expansions in 1688 and 1846, when a schoolroom and a vestry were added.
(Image: Getty)
In 1882, Ewan Christian expanded a short chancel on the east side and reoriented the entire church, even reinforcing it with steel; by 1889, it had become a parish church. The Church of England’s website reveals: “As the oldest building in Tunbridge Wells, built to serve the needs of visitors to the chalybeate spring nearby, King Charles the Martyr has seen many changes in its near 350 years of life.”
It continues: “Today, as part of the Anglican Diocese of Rochester, it provides a home to a lively Christian community that seeks to serve those who live and work around it, and to be open and welcoming to all wherever they feel they are in terms of the Christian faith.”
The church’s doors are open from 11am to 1pm, but on Sundays, it’s accessible only at service times. After visiting this church, why not check out The Pantiles shopping parade nearby? It’s just moments away.
Tunbridge Wells is stuffed full of dining and drinking gems like Charlotte’s – a delightful café by day and a cocktail haven at night. And not to be missed for early risers, Eggs Eleven offers a breakfast so good it boasts a stellar 4.8 rating on Google.
(Image: KentLive)
A glowing review shares: “Love this café. The waiting staff are always very friendly and accommodating. Food is very nice and they have freshly squeezed orange juice and delicious smoothies. Their coffee is very good. Thoroughly recommend it.”
Moreover, in 2024, the spa town was even voted the best place to live in all of Kent by the luxury lifestyle website Muddy Stiletto’s with The Pantiles, the ease of travel to London, and its “growing foodie scene” being mentioned. The parks, independent shops, galleries and bars were also highlighted as great things about Tunbridge Wells.
And its “exceptional schools including many prestigious grammars” were also mentioned.
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