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Tunbridge Wells has been named the third most chilled-out staycation destination in the UK in a new study.
The Kent town was beaten only by Cirencester in Gloucestershire in first place and Bourton-on-the-Water, also in Gloucestershire, in second.
The study, carried out by campervan sharing platform PaulCamper, aimed to find the most relaxing spots in the UK by evaluating more than 50 destinations by stress factors.
These include mean temperature, tourist figures, the amount of green space, average rainfall and Covid cases.
Tunbridge Wells was found to have the best mean temperature of 12°C and was ranked third for lowest humidity with 73%.
It also ranked among the top 10 in other categories such as tourist figures, ranking seventh in the lowest number of holiday visitors, with 14,000 visitors as of this June. The town was also ranked fifth with least traffic and sixth in lowest crime rate.
Here’s our guide on how to spend a stress-free, yet exciting day in Tunbridge Wells...
Scotney Castle gardens
Located just outside Tunbridge Wells, you can find the picturesque and fairytale-like gardens of Scotney Castle, in Lamberhurst.
The 780 acre estate is home to native woodland wildlife, and an all-year round spectacle of beautiful flowers. From the first signs of colour of snowdrops and daffodils after the winter, to a burst of orange foliage throughout autumn.
You can enjoy a wonderful day exploring the grounds using the trails and footpaths, or have a picnic with your family.
Pet-friendly. Parking fee of £4 for non-members.
Dunorlan Park
Your perfect spot to relax, in just a 20 minute walk from the vivid centre of Tunbridge Wells.
Dunorlan Park is famous for its beautiful and tranquil landscape, ideal for romantic strolls, chilling in the grassy inclines, and doing some Tai Chi.
For those who don't wish to go fully zen, the park also offers exciting boating activities.
During the summer, people can have fun on the pedalos and kayaks available for hire on the large central lake.
Wildwood Vineyard
Located just outside Tunbridge Wells lies the award-winning, family owned, Wildwood Vineyard.
Enjoy a calm tour around the grapevines or explore the wonderful flavours of their signature Bacchus, Pinot Noir and Regent wines. Even better, you can also adopt a vine!
Tours run every Saturday, subject to availability.
Spa Valley Railway
Why not have a little bit of adventure mixed with some breathtaking sightseeing? The Spa Valley Railway is the way to go!
This family-friendly attraction is a wonderful journey through the High Weald countryside offers many attractions along the way.
These include Groombridge Place and Enchanted Forest, the High Rocks or the historic villages of Withyham & Hartfield, famously known as the Winnie the Pooh Country.
The Pantiles
Your visit to Tunbridge Wells could not be complete without a stroll at The Pantiles.
The Pantiles has been the go-to entertainment location since Georgian times. Until today it is perfect for shopping, eating or having a drink in one of the many cozy cafés.
Whether visiting an indie art gallery or just stopping for a nice meal, this elegant walkway is definitely not to be missed!
Sunninglye Farm
What a better way to end a stress-free day in Tunbridge Wells than glamping under the stars?
The Sunninglye Farm has the peaceful atmosphere and comfy lodges, ideal to relax with your family.
Sunninglye is full of activities for everyone. While your little ones can explore the farm or the playground, you can unwind by chilling in the wildflower meadow or read a book by the pond.
The location is pet-friendly, with a carpark on-site and delicious homemade meals.
Maidstone and Canterbury also represented Kent well in the ranking, taking the 9th and 11th positions respectively.
Out of all 55 towns analysed, Maidstone was named the town with least rain, with only 2.6% of precipitation.
Canterbury made the top five towns with least Covid-19 cases, with 92 cases per 100 thousand.
Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells
