History

Tonbridge is a very old town, much older than its larger neighbour Royal Tunbridge Wells. For much of its history the main town of Tonbridge was situated north of the river, because south of the river was prone to flooding, however this is now vary rare now since the flood barrier was built.

 

Tonbridge is mentioned in the Doomsday book in 1087 as Tonebridge, but mostly throughout history was called Tunbridge, the spelling only being changed to Tonbridge in the early 1900's as it was causing confusion with the Royal Mail.

 

Most people think of the castle when they think of Tonbridge, the castle was built in the 11th Century by Robert Fitzherbert who served in William the Conquerors army.

 

The town has had a violent history being besieged by William Rufus, when he came to the throne. The lord of the manor allied with Williams' brother Robert whom he hated.

 

King John took over the town, during his conflict with the barons and again the town was besieged, this time by Prince Edward, the son of Henry III. This time the soldiers burnt the town down rather than see it taken.

 

The town and the castle then had to be rebuilt and the castle then became an official residence of Edward II.

 

Things remained fairly peaceful until the civil war when the town was on the Parliamentarian side, the Royalists attempted to take over Tonbridge but failed.

 

By 1740 the River Medway was being used as a way of transporting goods, so merchants made money shipping timber and hops to Maidstone and on to London, some of the old wharves are still here today.

 

Tonbridge is now a bustling market town with a great community, situated only 25 miles from London, it is a popular place for commuters being a main station with direct fast rail links into London and the continent.