Thrival guide – Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Date created: June 2026, written by Kim Rawlings and Abigail Phillips
Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Royal Tunbridge Wells

Mentor bios

Picture of two mentors with their arms behind each other posing for a picture and smiling

Background: Home for me is Worcester in the West Midlands, and I trained in Birmingham. I applied jointly with my best friend for KSS and we were hoping for Surrey, but ended up as placeholders due to the newly trialled allocation system. Tunbridge Wells has turned out to be a great place to live and work – it’s beautiful, green, safe, and close to London. The hospital has a supportive MDT and a great learning environment, and I’ve made lifelong friends here.

Interests and hobbies: I’ve loved exploring the greenery in the area and became a National Trust member soon after moving here. I spend as much time outdoors as possible, whatever the weather. Lemon Bar quickly became my go-to spot for cocktails, and the local leisure centre has great gym and racket sport facilities. I also set up a local netball team and play every Monday night.

Contact details: kim.rawlings2@nhs.net

Background and choices: I’ve lived in Tunbridge Wells all my life — I was actually born in Maidstone Hospital! I went to university in Birmingham, but wanted to return home for foundation training to be closer to my family. I also knew I liked the hospital because I did my elective there – so for me it was an easy choice. The hospital itself is a DGH, which I really valued during foundation training. It has a very supportive and friendly atmosphere where you quickly get to know people. I have really enjoyed my foundation years here, and I hope you do too!

Interests and hobbies: I have two dogs (Frank and Lesley) so spend a lot of time walking them, there are loads of lovely places to walk around Tunbridge Wells including the Ashdown forest, Dunorlan park, and Bewl Water. I also enjoy going to the gym, I’d recommend Underground Gym or Halo Gym if you’re into weightlifting! There are some really good restaurants in town, including Zorba (Turkish) and Cantuccio (Italian), and some decent pubs – my favourite being Saint John’s Yard!

Contact details: abigail.phillips22@nhs.net

The best thing about training in this location

In our opinion, one of the best things about training in this location is the close-knit and supportive community. Across the two hospitals, there is an excellent range of specialties, including a large oncology department and excellent theatre facilities, which provide fantastic training opportunities. The education centre is also incredibly supportive and works hard to ensure that resident doctors feel well looked after throughout their time here. Consultants and registrars are generally very approachable and enthusiastic about teaching, and there is always someone available to offer support or advice when needed – so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

The hospital and on calls

  • Two sites: Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Maidstone General Hospital
  • On calls are a mix of ward cover and clerking. These can feel intimidating at first, but seniors are aware you are new. You are not expected to do anything you don’t feel confident in.
  • Always ask for help, and escalate unwell patients early!
  • Bonus – there are no medical night shifts in FY1!

Accommodation

  • Hospital accommodation: flats of 5, 6 or 7 – all ensuite with shared kitchen and lounge about £750 a month
  • Private renting: Renting in Tunbridge Wells can be expensive, Southborough and High Brooms tend to be a bit cheaper. Free bus from Tunbridge Wells to hospital for NHS workers.

Recommendations

Bars: Lemon bar, Charlotte’s, Claremont
Pubs: St John’s Yard, The Guinea, White Bear
Food: Cantuccio’s, Zorba, Kai’s Kitchen

40 mins from London!
Theatre: Assembly Hall and Trinity Theatre
Music: The Forum and Jazz on the Pantiles

Climbing: outside (Eridge Rocks), inside (Chimera)
Beaches: Hastings, Brighton, Camber Sands
Parks and walks: Dunorlan Park, Calverly, Ashdown Forest

Mess socials! Including summer and winter ball.
Local netball team and climbing socials set up.
Domino’s Pizza during Sunday on call shifts!

Advice

  • Introduce yourself early and make an effort to be part of the team. It makes a big difference – especially in a hospital where everyone knows each other.  
  • Prioritise your wellbeing, take regular breaks, stay hydrated, don’t skip lunch. If you’re feeling burnt out, there is always someone to talk to.
  • Keep an open mind about your specialty, even if it isn’t your first choice!
  • Stay on top of your e-portfolio, little and often, don’t leave until last minute!
  • Take opportunities when they come, for example LFG rep, teaching, QIPs
  • Most importantly…Have fun!!!

Useful apps

  • iResus
  • BNF
  • Accurx
  • Foundation Doctor Handbook
  • MDCalc
  • Eolas

Additional resources

PDF poster of Tunbridge Wells Hospital thrival guide [.pdf 333 KB]