A luxurious penthouse bolthole escape

Since lockdown, the value of having a base at home in the UK where you are happy living all year round, despite having a second home abroad, has become increasingly recognised.* Michael (52) and Elizabeth Webb (50) have purchased a penthouse at Dandara’s 1887 The Pantiles development in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent in order to have a UK bolthole retreat. But the couple are also planning to buy a home in Mallorca where they normally spend two or three weeks of the school holidays. They have three kids, Anna (20), Jacob (16) and Zach (14).

Michael, a former businessman from the city who now has his own cricket coaching business, says: “We knew when we started looking for a bolthole home that we wanted to stay in Tunbridge Wells as we have lived here for 30 years. We have always planned to buy a property abroad for a change in lifestyle, but since the pandemic struck we are glad to have our UK safe haven property for the time being.”

Michael adds: “We were looking for a property with a prestigious build and 1887 The Pantiles ticked all the boxes. The penthouse caught our eye straight away as it was the perfect size for us and there is enough space for when the children come to stay. We love that it has outdoor space which is low maintenance for when we go away. The property is right for us post-covid because it is so light and spacious with enough room for us to not feel on top of each other.”

Situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells’ beloved Georgian Colonnade, 1887 The Pantiles is built on the site of the ‘The Pump Room’, a 19th century live music hall and jazz club, which was once the centre of the spa town’s cultural scene. The development now offers an exclusive collection of 127 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom mews homes and eight show-stopping penthouses.

When completed, residents will benefit from a purpose-designed outdoor cultural space, where they can come together to enjoy events. Residents will also be able to enjoy a range of top-class facilities including a stylish resident’s reception, concierge service, landscaped courtyard gardens, underground parking, sizeable balconies or terraces, and a separate indoor communal space that can be used to host parties.

Michael adds: “The location was important to us as my cricket coaching business is in Tunbridge Wells along with Elizabeth’s job as a Pilates instructor. Her studio is just down the road from The Pantiles making it extremely convenient. After years of commuting into the city for work I wanted a better lifestyle. Tunbridge Wells gives just that as everything is within easy reach. It has a huge array of thriving eateries and an eclectic range of chic and independent shops. We also love the community aspect and buzz that Tunbridge Wells has. There is always so much going on (in more normal times!) with music, theatre, comedy and art events throughout the year!” During the pandemic, life has been quieter in Tunbridge Wells but the community has still been brought together by events such as Dinner and Jazz on The Pantiles. All Covid precautions and a socially distanced layout have been put in place in the participating restaurants so that everyone can feel safe.”

Louise Norman, Associate Sales & Marketing Director at Dandara South East, comments: “Homes at 1887 The Pantiles combine classical elegance with contemporary convenience, creating stylish yet practical homes. With the location of The Pantiles within easy reach to Gatwick airport, it is no wonder it attracts people like the Webb’s looking to keep a luxurious bolthole escape in the heart of their hometown, whilst also giving them the flexibility to travel abroad when they purchase a second home.”

The rail station in Tunbridge Wells provides access to towns across Kent and Sussex, or to the coast and beyond. Journeys towards London are fast and frequent taking just 55 minutes to London Charing Cross and 44 minutes to London Bridge. Ashford International (Eurostar) is also less than an hour away with the Channel Tunnel and ferry services via Dover, less than 90 minutes. Gatwick airport is easily accessible and takes just under 45 minutes via the A21 and M25. Heathrow airport takes just over an hour by car.

There is just one penthouse remaining at £1,060,000 but prices range for other properties at the development from £299,950 for a one-bedroom apartment to £535,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. For further information or to arrange a viewing please visit www.dandara.com or call 01892 726 112.

1887 The Pantiles

A unique landmark development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom luxury apartments and 2 bed mews homes on the edge of the vibrant and iconic Pantiles.

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