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Tonbridge in the rain: umbrellas, street views and an abandoned shopping trolley, Jan 2016

Tonbridge in the rain: umbrellas, street views and an abandoned shopping trolley, Jan 2016

Tonbridge in the rain: umbrellas, street views and an abandoned shopping trolley, Jan 2016, Kent

Over the weekend, I made the hour long trip from Brixton to Tonbridge in Kent to watch the mighty Dulwich Hamlet play a crucial top of the table clash.

Much like my Christmas trip to Wales, it rained almost the entire time, which limited the photographic possibilities somewhat.

With my brolly perched at a jaunty angle to protect the camera, I still managed to grab a few shots as I sped through the town, en route to Tonbridge Angels football ground, a 30 mins walk away. And yes, I got wet.

Scroll down for some views of the town, and see my earlier – and very much sunnier – set of photos from my April 2015 visit for more details about the buildings.

One very damp High Street.

Looking over the river is the remains of Tonbridge Castle, which dates back to 1088.

Created by Tonbridge sculptor Peter Hills and erected in 2004, the stone memorial to the right bears the legend, ‘In proud memory of all Tonbridge men and women who have given their lives in serving our community during war and peace’.

Top quality artwork.

Described as, “one of the finest examples of a Kentish timber-framed building that can be found today,” the 500 year old Chequers Inn is still open for business.

The impressive façade of the original Rose & Crown, originally a Tudor House built during the 16th Century.

The front and porch are alterations that were made some two hundred years later, and the front balcony is traditionally the place from which election results were announced.

The arms above the porch are those of the Duchess of Kent, mother to Queen Victoria and commemorate the frequent visits by the Duchess and her daughter. []

Get your book in the rain.

After standing empty for 35 years, this lovely old fire station has been turned into an events venue with pop up shops and restaurants. []

Spellbound in Bank Street promises a “unique shopping experience. From fairies to gargoyles, dragons to mermaids and a whole bunch in-between. Every visit to this magical place will be different and hopefully enhance and spark your imagination.”

Best if all, they promise to treat visitors with “integrity, honor and respect.” Which is nice.

A  member of the Eton Group, Tonbridge School is for the posh folks on the hill.

A discarded NYE party horn.

The Floors may have been for Life but the shop wasn’t.

This is just my filthy mind, yes?

This building remains boarded-up on Bank Street.

Chequers Inn at night.

Christmas tree by the river.

Discarded shopping trolley makes a break for it.

Angel Walk shopping centre won’t be winning any design awards.

Notice board in the American Espresso Bar in the station.

More pics
Tonbridge, Kent – photos of the town centre, architecture and private schools
See more Kent photos here.

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