Spotlight on Tunbridge Wells | Homes and Property

Spotlight on Tunbridge WellsIt may have temporarily lost its iron-rich spring but Tunbridge Wells has buckets of charm to make up for it, decides Anthea Masey

Beau Nash, the 18th century rake who cut such a dash in the spa town of Tunbridge Wells, must be turning in his grave at the news that the tap has had to be turned off at the famous chalybeate spring, a likely victim of the current drought. Nash is one of a trinity of characters who over the centuries have determined the destiny of this fine royal town, 35 miles south of London on the edge of the lovely Kent weald.

© AlamyShoppers enjoy a break at the Pantiles; Dunorian Park will host proms events this summerThe Pantiles has changed little in 300 years

Buying a home

The area attracts:Trinity Theatre, converted from the Decimus Burton Holy Trinity churchRenting:Postcodes:Best roads:What’s new:Up and coming:Grand villas line Tunbridge Wells' best streets

Getting an education

One of the independent cafés in town

Shops and restaurants

Large houses overlook a green on Mount Ephraim

Open space

Leisure and the arts:Travel:Diana Segal runs the Gardener & Cook shopCouncil:

Average prices

BUYING IN TUNBRIDGE WELLSRENTING IN TUNBRIDGE WELLSPhotographs by Graham Hussey