The Best Places to Eat in Tunbridge Wells 2025

Known for its Georgian elegance and spa-town charm, Royal Tunbridge Wells has become one of Kent’s top foodie destinations. From modern British fine dining and Mediterranean flavours to casual bistros and stylish wine bars, this historic town caters for every palate.

Here are The Kent Tourist’s top restaurants to eat in Tunbridge Wells in 2025, chosen for quality, creativity and atmosphere.

1. The Small Holding

Just outside Tunbridge Wells in Kilndown, The Small Holding is one of Kent’s most celebrated restaurants, famous for its “farm-to-table” philosophy. Nearly everything on the menu is grown or reared on-site, creating dishes that truly reflect the seasons.

Location: Ranters Lane, Kilndown, Goudhurst TN17 2SG
Cuisine: Modern British, farm-to-fork
Price Point: £££
Specialties: Tasting menus built around seasonal vegetables, home-raised meats and local wine pairings.
Awards: Michelin Green Star 2024, AA Restaurant of the Year South East 2023.
The Kent Tourist tip: This is one of our favourite places to eat in the whole of Kent. Book the 7-course tasting menu for an unforgettable culinary experience - reservations often fill weeks in advance.

The Small Holding’s menu is ever-changing and always excellent

2. The Beacon

Perched high above Tunbridge Wells with panoramic countryside views, The Beacon is both romantic and relaxed. The restaurant focuses on modern British dishes made with Kentish ingredients, served in a stunning converted lodge.

Location: Tea Garden Lane, Tunbridge Wells TN3 9JH
Cuisine: Modern British & Seasonal
Price Point: £££
Specialties: Roast lamb rump, line-caught fish and signature Sunday roasts.
Awards: TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2024.
The Kent Tourist tip: Ideal for special occasions - book a window seat at sunset for sweeping views over the Weald.

The exterior of The Beacon

3. Soprano

For authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of town, Soprano has long been a Tunbridge Wells favourite. Expect handmade pasta, rich risottos and an extensive wine list that celebrates both Italy and Kent.

Location: 56 High St, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1XF
Cuisine: Italian Fine Dining
Price Point: ££
Specialties: Lobster linguine, truffle tagliatelle and homemade tiramisu.
Awards: OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award 2024.
The Kent Tourist tip: Perfect for date nights - ask for the candlelit balcony table for a little added romance.

Excellent Italian cuisine at Soprano

4. The Mount Edgcumbe

This stylish gastropub and boutique inn combines hearty British cuisine with a warm, elegant atmosphere. Nestled next to Tunbridge Wells Common, The Mount Edgcumbe offers a cosy retreat with exceptional food.

Location: The Common, Tunbridge Wells TN4 8BX
Cuisine: British Gastropub
Price Point: ££
Specialties: Slow-cooked beef cheek, wild-mushroom risotto, and homemade sticky toffee pudding.
Awards: Good Pub Guide Recommended 2024.
The Kent Tourist tip: Visit in winter to enjoy your meal by the fire, or stay overnight in one of their boutique rooms.

5. Thackeray’s

Housed in the former home of novelist William Makepeace Thackeray, Thackeray’s is one of Kent’s most prestigious fine-dining establishments. Chef-owner Patrick Hill blends classical French technique with British produce for a truly refined experience.

Location: 85 London Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1EA
Cuisine: Modern European Fine Dining
Price Point: ££££
Specialties: Tasting menus, scallops with cauliflower purée, and Kentish lamb.
Awards: 3 AA Rosettes, Michelin Guide Recommended 2025.
The Kent Tourist tip: For special occasions, opt for the chef’s tasting menu paired with fine wines - an unforgettable Tunbridge Wells classic.

6. The Warren

Set in a characterful Georgian townhouse, The Warren focuses on locally sourced produce, much of it from the owner’s nearby Crowborough estate. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering bold yet comforting flavours.

Location: 5A High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UL
Cuisine: Modern British & Game Driven
Price Point: £££
Specialties: Estate venison, wild mushrooms and heritage vegetable dishes.
Awards: Kent Life Food & Drink Award Winner 2024.
The Kent Tourist tip: Try the estate venison Wellington - it’s one of Kent’s most celebrated game dishes.

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