Tunbridge Wells Central
Although the red brickwork is somewhat familiar, the SE&CR ''down'' side station building has a
totally different fundamental design to the SER structure. It looks more akin to the 1920s products
of the Southern Railway, such as those at Margate and Ramsgate. All booking offices are located in
the ''up'' platform building, the SE&CR establishment providing general passenger facilities.
David Glasspool
This general view looking northwards on 30th June 2004 gives a good impression of how the
buildings at Tunbridge Wells are arranged. The imposing SE&CR structures can clearly be seen
behind the footbridge, the former of which are clearly indicated by the clock tower. The whole
station was thoroughly renovated in May 1986 in conjunction with the line's electrification.
This is an impressive and attractive station, certainly in light of it simply serving just two tracks.
David Glasspool
To the south of the platforms is ''Grove Tunnel''. Note that the double-track here narrows as it enters
the tunnel. Immediately beyond the tunnel was Grove Junction, where the single-track spur to Tunbridge
Wells West branched off. The cutting of the spur is still in existence. David Glasspool
General Station Review
Originally opened: 25th November 1846.
Level of originality: Excellent. Original buildings of both the South Eastern and Southern Railways eras survive to this day in near immaculate condition and are superb examples of contrasting railway company building designs. Furthermore, the SER-styled canopies have been retained, brining yet more historical wealth to the station.
General Condition: In general, excellent. The station received a full refurbishment concurrent with line electrification in May 1986 and has retained a tidy appearance since. The footbridge is showing signs of weathering as surface rust appears, and the right hand-side of the 'down' station building street-facing canopy has succumb to some damage, but both cases are minor.
Railway Companies:
South Eastern Railway (1846 - 1898)
South Eastern & Chatham Railway (1899 - 1922)
Southern Railway (1923 - 1947)
British Rail Southern Region (1948 - 1981)
London & SouthEast (1982 - 1986)
Network SouthEast (1986 - 1996)
Connex South Eastern (1997 - 2003)
South Eastern Trains (2004 - 2006)
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