Tonbridge
Tonbridge is a market town in the English county of Kent, with a population of 31,600 in 2001. It belongs to the administrative borough of Tonbridge and Malling (population 107,560 in 2001).
Tonbridge was originally spelt 'Tunbridge' until 1870, but the spelling of the name was changed in a misguided attempt to avoid confusion with nearby Tunbridge Wells, a larger town about five miles to the south.
An 11th century castle was built here by Richard Fitzgilbert, a nobleman in William the Conqueror's invading army. The town was besieged by William Rufus, soon after his accession to the throne, the lord of the manor having pledged allegiance to William's brother, Robert. It was afterwards taken by King John, during his conflict with barons and was subsequently besieged by Prince Edward, son of Henry III. On this occasion the besieged garrison burnt the town rather than see it fall. The town and Tonbridge Castle were rebuilt after this and in the 13th century became an official residence and records repository of Edward II. At that time, Tonbridge was intended to be a medieval walled town. Walls were never built however, probably because the castle's large bailey could have easily accommodated the town's populace in times of strife. A surrounding bank and ditch known as The Fosse was erected although only traces of this encircling defence now remains. The historic core of the town still contains a large number of working buildings dating from the 15th century. During the Civil War the town was on the Parliamentarian side and a Royalist attempt to take it was repulsed.
Later, the town and its surrounds became famous for the production of finely inlaid wooden cabinets, boxes and other objects called Tunbridgeware.
The town is home to several remaining Grammar Schools, including The Judd School and Tonbridge Grammar School for Girls. Tonbridge School, founded in 1553 is a well respected private boys' school in the centre of the town.
Major industries include light engineering, distribution and services. A weekly farmers' market sells a wide variety of local food and more exotic imports.
Post code: TN. Telephone code: 01732
