If you’re craving a weekend that balances serene Georgian splendour with a dash of high-octane excitement, allow me to suggest Royal Tunbridge Wells. Founded in the 17th century after the chalybeate spring was discovered in 1606, the town quickly became the stylish spa escape of its time.
Fast-forward to today, and Royal Tunbridge Wells remains the perfect base for a weekend of wining, dining, browsing, and supreme relaxation.
High octane you say? Brands Hatch is a 30-minute drive away, easily accessible for a day trip and perfect to mix up the vibe of the weekend. We were invited as VIP’s to experience a day at the British Superbikes. Included in the invite was the chance to complete a circuit of Brands Hatch in the safety car. The name of which is most misleading since we completed the circuit at speeds of up to 145 mph. After all that excitement, One Warwick Park was the safe haven that was needed.
One Warwick Park Hotel
Nestled just steps from the Pantiles, the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, One Warwick Park is the kind of place where you fall asleep in elegant tranquillity and wake up sipping artisan coffee surrounded by Georgian architecture and indie boutiques. With just 39 rooms, this clever, Tardis-like 4-star hotel feels very reassuring.
Its renovation skilfully splits the hotel into two wings while keeping those rooms satisfyingly spacious. Our suite was perfect for two sharing as a twin. It was giving expensive reno. Lush, thick carpets underfoot, a hallway leading past a serene atrium, and a chic vanity-desk nook, perfect for sending some last-minute emails or as a secondary vanity space.
The bedroom itself was generous, anchored by Hypnos beds which gave us both a solid sleep. Two sash windows framed views of the Pantiles, letting in soft light that made the Temple Spa products in the vast, rainfall-shower-fitted bathroom even more indulgent. And breakfast, cooked to order, sent us out fortified for our next adventure.
Brands Hatch
Now, I’m not usually a petrolhead, but, when you’re offered a 145 mph spin in the safety car at Brands Hatch, who am I to refuse? Just down the road from Royal Tunbridge Wells, this iconic circuit is a thrilling visit for anyone with a need for speed.
The noise of the bikes as you approach is exhilarating, the energy around the track is electric. I felt waves of nerves and excitement as we hopped into the safety car. We screamed, laughed and swore our way around the track. The experience was insane and left me wanting more. Brands Hatch run several track days available with driver and without, and that I really want to do.
An easy weekend away
Royal Tunbridge Wells is a place to mooch around, sip slow, and luxuriate in quiet charm, then punctuate your weekend with a seriously fun pit stop at Brands Hatch. One Warwick Park is your stylish home base. I’m already planning my return (and that track day).
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
