House For Sale £585,000
Market Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Built in the 1880s, this former wine cellar in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, has been cleverly converted into an elegant two-bedroom house. Defined by a considered monochrome colour palette, the house is filled with a beautiful blend of striking design elements such as a Victorian cast-iron staircase, Crittall doors and a lovely French window. Set on a quiet side street, its location in the heart of the market town means it is well located for the lively attractions of the local area both within the town and in the surrounding Kentish countryside.

Setting the Scene 

Tunbridge Wells derives its name from the freshwater spring acclaimed for its rejuvenating properties. Discovered in 1606, the Chalybeate Spring spurred development in the surrounding area, eventually becoming known as The Pantiles. The apex of the town's rapid growth coincided with the Victorian obsession with healing waters. Many grand residences were built during this time, often with white facades that complemented the pre-existing white clapperboard buildings that lined the narrow cobbled streets. As the town developed, it became necessary to build additional structures for storage space to cater to the increasingly affluent population. The present house is one such example, originally serving as a wine cellar and dating to the mid-1800s. For more information, please see the History section.

The Grand Tour

A striking double wooden front door flanked by Corinthian pilasters opens directly onto the sitting room, which has dual-aspect sash windows. Handy shelving built around the portal leading to the kitchen keeps the space streamlined. Wooden floors by Fired Earth run throughout the ground floor, adding a sense of flow.

The kitchen has been thoughtfully laid out, with units lining both walls, allowing plenty of space for a large dining table in the middle. The cabinetry is glossy white, topped by stainless steel worktops and a contrasting splashback of porcelain tiles in Amber by Mandarin Stone, all reflecting light into the room. In one corner, an original wrought iron spiral staircase leads to the first floor, where exposed brickwork adds texture.

The laid-back monochrome scheme downstairs is amped up in the two en-suite bedrooms, where black wooden floorboards contrast with pure white walls. In the main bedroom, three sash windows with panelled shutters punctuate the high arched ceiling, creating a dramatic sense of volume. Double Crittall doors open to the en suite with a wonderful oval-shaped bath accented by marble panels and brass fittings.

In the second bedroom, a French window opens onto a small balcony that looks onto the cobbled street below, filling the room with a gentle breeze on summer days. In the adjoining bathroom, white porcelain tiles line the floor, while the shower has been plastered with Tadelakt and has brass taps that will develop a beautiful patina with age.

The Great Outdoors 

A small grassy area, shared with neighbouring houses, directly adjoins the rear of the house. Slightly further afield is the nature reserve, High Rocks, with plenty of walks.

Out and About

The house is tucked down a quiet lane in the heart of The Pantiles. In summer, the town has the same alfresco atmosphere as a European city, as many restaurants and cafes spill out onto the streets. Geography is a lovely little natural wine bar next door to The Ivy, while Sankey's The Old Fish Market is the place to go for champagne and oysters. Thackerays, The Beacon, The Square Peg and Tallow are also highly recommended for delicious food. Local pubs in the town and the nearby countryside include the Kentish Hare, the Sussex Arms and Ragged Trousers. There are live jazz performances on the bandstand on summer evenings.

There are many highly regarded state and private schools in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area. Primary school options include Rose Hill and The Mead. Secondary options also include the highly sought-after grammar schools and encompass  Tunbridge Wells Girls Grammar School, Tunbridge Wells Boys Grammar, Tonbridge Grammar School for Girls, Tonbridge School, Judd and Skinners.

Trains run from Tunbridge Wells, a 10-minute walk from the house, into London Bridge, Waterloo East and Charing Cross in under an hour. The M25, Ashford Station (for the Channel Tunnel) and Gatwick Airport are all within easy driving distance.

Council Tax Band; D