'UK town's 'hoity toity' rep is unfair - it's an underrated staycation gem'

10 February 2024 , 08:00

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Tunbridge Wells' most famous spot, the Pantiles (Image: Getty Images)

A town blessed with spring water and a royal stamp of approval has been named one of the most underrated towns in the UK.

Tunbridge Wells in Kent is one of six places highlighted by World Atlas as deserving of more recognition than it gets. Having spent 18 happy years of my life there, I tend to agree.

Arguably the place has a bit of a reputation issue. Since King Edward VII awarded it the 'royal' prefix in 1909 (one of just three in the country), Tunbridge Wells has been known for being a little hoity-toity. In popular culture it is perhaps best known through letters sent to newspapers signed off 'Sincerely, Disgusted of Tunbridge Wells'. The tradition dates back 80 years and is a nod to the deep conservative values sported by many of the town's residents.

In recent years the town has moved away from such fustiness and shed its status as a true-blue stronghold, even daring to elect a Lib Dem led council. While its roads are populated with more than its fair share of luxury black Range Rovers on the school run, I'd argue it is far more than a posh, Tory loving dormitory settlement 40 miles from London.

The town is surrounded by bits of lovely countryside (Getty Images)

Milo Boyd