Love where you live – Nicola Benson

Pam Mills

Where do you live?

We live in the Culverden Park area of Tunbridge Wells. We love the location, far enough out that we get peaceful evenings but also close enough to the town centre for quick shopping trips.

How long have you lived there and what made you decide to move there?

We have lived here for two years now, but I have lived in the Tunbridge Wells area all my life and I can’t ever see myself wanting to move away! We wanted to find a home in a location that suited us as a couple but that could transition when we started our family.

What’s your favourite shop locally?

I’d be silly not to say Jo Malone London in Fenwick! We hope we create a wonderful shopping experience for everyone and I’m absolutely addicted to our products!

Where’s the best place to go for a Sunday stroll?

We love going for a walk along Mount Ephraim and then down towards The Pantiles. You get to soak in the views over the town, the lovely Common and cricket pitch. We have plenty of routes planned for walks with our new addition.

The best place to get a cup of coffee?

We are spoilt for choice for a good cup of coffee in Tunbridge Wells, especially if you are having cake too! Basil, Fine Grind, The Cake Shed and Juliet’s all offer a great choice of coffee and cake!

Where do you take people when they come to visit?

The Pantiles is always the perfect example of life in Tunbridge Wells. We recently attended their Gin Festival with my uncle who was visiting from America and we loved it (obviously I was off the gin!).

What’s the night life like where you live?

Lively! From the wine and gin bar, Chapel Place, to our local pub St John’s Yard, there is something for everyone at either end of our town. We are lucky enough to have local alcohol like Pipehouse Gin or a pint of Larkins beer.

Where’s your favourite place to eat locally?

Basil! Their sausage rolls and salads are super tasty and the cakes are the best in the town. I love the feel of their cafés, so relaxed and homely.

Are there any nice views nearby?

The view whilst driving through Frant looking over towards Eridge is simply stunning. It completely stops you in your tracks and makes you realise how lucky we are to be surrounded by such beautiful villages.

If you’re looking to relax and unwind, where’s your favourite place to go?

The Mount Edgcumbe is one of my favourite places to be – whether it is out in their garden, snuggled up in the beautiful cave or having an overnight stay in their gorgeous rooms. I love the atmosphere they have created there and adore the new rooms they launched last year.

Where’s the best place to meet friends and socialise?

Le Cave at Coco Retro has the most incredible atmosphere! Enjoying a private experience in the wine cellar with the incredible choice of food and wine, French music and beautiful surroundings can’t be beaten!

What do you do when you spend a weekend or day off in the local area?

I love going for walks with my husband in local parks. Going to Dunorlan Park and doing a lap of the lake with an ice cream or a picnic in the summer is the perfect way to spend some time together. 

Why do you love where you live?

Tunbridge Wells will always be my home, I love how many different places we have to go for food or a few drinks, and how we are surrounded by beautiful parks and villages. We are also so lucky to have such a great link to London and how quick it is to get to the coast! I can’t wait to bring up my children in this town just like my parents did.

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