Car Hire Tonbridge - Mini guide to Tonbridge

Centrally located in Kent, Tonbridge is an ancient market town that dates back to well before Norman times. The town is rich in ancient sites, medieval buildings and beautiful outdoor areas.

The highlight of the town is the fantastic ruins of Tonbridge Castle. Started around 1066, the original timber castle was erected by William of Normandy but was destroyed and replaced by a stone structure. In the second half of the 13th century, a gatehouse that became known as the finest in Britain was added.

Tonbridge Castle stands in 14 acres of spectacular grounds that are open free of charge to the public. The grounds are readily accessible and visitors can wander at their own pace along the trail, following a numbered series of information panels.

There are numerous walks around the town that take in the astonishing number of important historic buildings and sites. Tonbridge School, one of the foremost educational institutions in the country, features splendid buildings, all within a few minutes walk of Tonbridge centre.

Tonbridge is directly on the Wealdway Walk (128kms – Gravesend to Eastbourne), the Eden Valley Walk (24kms - Edenbridge to Tonbridge) and the recently completed Medway Valley Walk (45kms - Rochester to Tonbridge). The Greensand Way passes three kilometres north of Tonbridge. Other pleasant activities include boat trips along the beautiful Medway River, which runs through the town.

The town has plenty of restaurants and evening entertainment spots, particularly along the riverside. There is a large, well maintained public park bounded on all sides by the River Medway. It includes a swimming pool and one of the most comprehensive children's play areas in Kent. A miniature railway runs most summer weekends, and there are putting, bowls and tennis facilities for the more sporty.

The Heart of Kent, comprised of Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and Ashford, is English countryside at its best. Discover a landscape of rolling hills and wooded valleys, dotted with orchards and vineyards where each season yields its treasures in a myriad of colours. There is a variety of routes for drivers, walkers and cyclists to explore.

Tonbridge is 70kms by car from London. Take the M25, exit at junction 5 and follow the A21 to the town. Rail access from London is also available.