Tunbridge Wells - The Rock Tour, 13.5 miles

Join Mark on a spectacular 13.5-mile adventure exploring the remarkable sandstone rock formations that surround Tunbridge Wells — a landscape shaped over millions of years and beloved by walkers, climbers, and explorers alike.

Our journey begins near the iconic Wellington Rocks, where generations of children have scrambled, climbed, and played among the towering sandstone outcrops. From there, we make our way to Mount Edgcumbe Rocks, dramatic formations nestled beside one of Tunbridge Wells’ most charming pubs and restaurants.

Leaving town behind, we head into the countryside towards Bulls Hollow, a hidden former quarry near Rusthall with an atmospheric, almost secret feel. Soon after, we arrive at the world-famous Toad Rock, perhaps the area’s best-known natural landmark, whose balancing shape has fascinated visitors since Victorian times.

Before departing Rusthall Common, we visit Sweeps Cave, a mysterious sandstone hollow steeped in local folklore, then continue on to the magnificent High Rocks. These striking cliffs and pinnacles were formed over 100 million years ago from ancient sandstone deposits and became a hugely popular Victorian tourist attraction after the railway reached Tunbridge Wells. 

We then join part of the Tunbridge Wells Circular route towards Groombridge, where we encounter Harrison’s Rocks — a paradise for climbers and one of the UK’s premier sandstone climbing venues. It’s common to see climbers carefully making their way across the rock faces here.

Venturing deeper into Sussex, we discover the quieter beauty of Eridge Rocks before enjoying a peaceful woodland stretch through Broadwater Forest, one of the route’s most tranquil and scenic sections.

Finally, we loop back past High Rocks once more and return to our starting point through elegant Nevill Park, ending a walk that combines natural history, hidden landscapes and some of the finest sandstone scenery in the South East.

This walk is led by West Kent Walking Group as part of the High Weald Walking Festival