High Rocks, Tunbridge Wells is situated opposite The High Rocks, a former hotel but now a large restaurant and banqueting complex, 2 miles west of Tunbridge Wells and 2½ miles east of Groombridge. To get there from the centre of Tunbridge Wells take the Lewes road (A26); turn right at the second mini-roundabout and then first left. After about a mile the road makes a sharpS-bend over a railway bridge; immediately beyond this is the entrance to the rocks on the left, with a large car park just beyond. From Groombridge head south past the railway station and continue as the road bends round to the northeast. After about a mile a left fork leads to The High Rocks and the rocks.
Located two miles west of Tunbridge Wells, these impressive rocks date back millions of years. Visitors can walk over the eleven inter-linked bridges to reach the stunning sandstone rocks. Theer are also Woodland walks over several acres of woodland that can be enjoyed. These rocks were once a Stone Age camp, but are now part of the High Rocks, Tunbridge Wells complex, which also includes a pub and a railway station. They are also a very popular spot for wedding photos and climbing. To the right below the path is the Devil’s Oak, this tree stood against the full force of the hurricane in October 1987, holding firm to the rock when much larger trees all around were falling. The path winds gently upwards to the first bridge of the Aerial Way – look out for the Toad. Just behind the rocks which guard the meadow you will find the famous wishing rock. Take the two bridges spanning the Fairy Glen into the Iron Age fortress. The great rocks provided natural defences on one-side and earth ramparts with ditches protected by rows of sharpened stakes secured the other three sides. The area has been excavated and recorded, but covered again to preserve a valuable site from erosion by weather.
Go down into a gully and up a short stairway to the High Rocks themselves. The crooked bridge from Observation Point crosses one of the fortress’s natural openings. The walk follows the edge of the cliff and down approximately 50 steps to the base, where there is clear evidence of Mesolithic and Neolithic occupation.
If you stand on the lowest step, the first of four Stone Age shelters excavated is immediately to the left. Hunting parties would have hung skins on the overhanging rock to make a rough shelter. Excavation has revealed holes used for roof support poles, arrowheads, spear barbs and pottery. Some of what has been found is now on show in Tunbridge Wells Museum.
A short flight of steps leads to the Bell Rock. The Bell Rock is best known for an inscription dated 1702 placed there by a lady whose little dog fell to its death from the summit.
If visiting High Rocks, Tunbridge Wells be sure to stop in at the pub with a cosy welcoming atmosphere, serving home – cooked bar food and full meals seven days a week at great value for money is there. With beautiful gardens and a terrace for eating outside, you can sit and enjoy the lovely views, the tranquillity of the countryside and watch the Steam trains pulling in to the Station.
The High Rocks is a most popular venue for wedding photographs in Tunbridge Wells and used often by bridal parties, particularly in summer.
Rock Climbing in Tunbridge Wells
High Rocks, Tunbridge Wells is a popular, world-renowned location for rock climbing. Daily entry to the Rocks for Climbers and Boulderers costs £10, or regular visitors may wish to take advantage of the annual membership fee of just £45. There are two very informative books available,SOUTHERN SANDSTONE andSANDSTONE SOUTH EAST ENGLAND, both of which beautifully illustrate the climbs, and offer a comprehensive guide to sandstone climbing in the area.