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TONBRIDGE on the INTERNET |
Tonbridge TownTonbridge is an historic town, well-known for its culture and heritage. The Castle and Church, River Medway, a Public School, fine traditions of sport and a variety of shopping facilities all make Tonbridge a town with something for all ages and interests. The magnificent 13th century Motte and Bailey Castle stands tall above the River Medway and is still the dominant feature of the town today. Its grounds provide an ideal picnic spot in the summer months or the chance to take a relaxing break away from the bustling High Street. This is the perfect setting for a varied programme of events running throughout the year which include the popular May Festival and Carnival, Summer Band Concerts and Art Exhibitions. As from September 1999, the Castle is due for a "re-fit" which will enhance the access and contents of the Castle tour. This will take up to twelve months to complete. Attractive timber framed buildings can be found dotted throughout the town as well as fine 18th century weather boarded and tiled houses. The famous Tonbridge School stands at the top of the town. (See photographs) Tonbridge has been a market town since the Earl of Gloucester was granted the right to hold a weekly market in 1259. The market was originally held in the High Street but moved to its present site in Bank Street in 1856 when the Tonbridge Stock and Cattle Market Company was formed. Sadly, the cattle market closed down entirely in 1971. The site is still owned by the Tonbridge Stock and Cattle Market Company and the current market operator, Platt Markets, have run the Saturday Market in Bank Street since approximately 1960. This is a general Market with many stalls, including clothes, fresh fruit and vegetables and meat produce. It has always been well attended by local residents and tourists alike. There are currently three markets in Tonbridge. A Fleamarket at the Angel Leisure Centre on Fridays, the market in Bank Street on Saturdays and a Sunday market that can be found opposite Tonbridge railway station. The River Medway flows through Tonbridge and during the Summer summer it is possible to hire rowing boats at the Big Bridge, or board the Caxton long boat for a leisurely cruise. The local fishing club have rights over 14 miles of the river and 7 lakes. Day tickets are available. Take advantage of the Brittannia's Jolly Boat that has been recently saved and now runs throughout the summer months between the Castle grounds and Haysden Country Park. Operating at weekends and then daily during the school holidays, take a relaxing jaunt down the river to the 160 acres of beautiful Country Park that are at your disposal. Located in the heart of Tonbridge is the old Racecourse Sportsground. Improve your tennis on the four hard and four grass courts that are available for public use. For those who prefer a less strenuous game there is an 18-hole putting green, crazy golf and bowls. All the necessary equipment is available for hire from the games pavilion - where it is also possible to buy cold drinks, snacks and ice creams. There is a children’s play area (a dog free zone) with swings, slides and play equipment which is ideal for young children, with picnic tables for the family. At weekends in the summer a miniature railway is in operation near the swimming pool. Tonbridge Farm Sportsground The Tonbridge Farm Sportsground serves the northern part of the town and contains a multipurpose floodlight all-weather sports area that is used for football, netball and cricket. There are also several pitches available for a wide range of sports and a children’s play area. For further information contact the Angel Centre Tel: (01732) 359966. Why not pay a visit to Tonbridge Tourist Information Centre while you are in town? There you will find information on places to visit both locally and further afield. The staff will be only to pleased to help you with your queries and enquiries. Tel: (01732) 770929. |