Driving Theory Test Centres in Tunbridge Wells

The (Royal) Tunbridge Wells theory test centre is fairly new on the scene—having only been open since September 2016. In that short time it’s managed to earn one of the highest pass rates in the country. Add to that it’s convenient location at the heart of this historic spa town, and you see why this test centre is a popular choice for learner drivers all over Kent.

Keep reading if you’d like more information on the Tunbridge Wells test centre, including wait times, contact details, directions and more!


Address

Foundation House, Coach And Horses Passage The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells Kent TN2 5NP

Phone Number

0333 200 1122 Please note: no direct phone number is available for this theory test centre.

Map


Arriving at Tunbridge Wells Theory Test Centre

As you can see from the street view images, the Tunbridge Wells test centre is tucked away in a passage just behind one of the town’s major streets. You may struggle to find the theory test centre on Google Maps. Insider tip: search for ‘Coach and Horses Passage’, rather than ‘Foundation House’ or ‘theory test centre’.

By public transport

Good news—the test centre is really easy to get to by train or bus. If taking the former, it’ll only take you around 8 minutes to walk from Tunbridge Wells train station to your test. For those who want to spend even less time on their feet, The Pantiles bus stop is less than 500 ft from the test centre. Convenient or what?

Full details of Tunbridge Wells’ transport links can be found on the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council website.

By car

Getting a lift always seems like the most attractive option, but just be warned that this test centre can be a little tricky to access by car. As previously mentioned, the test centre is located in a back passageway, which means no direct access for vehicles. The surrounding streets are also a bit of a tourist hotspot, so expect congestion and competition for parking spots.

We recommend following directions to TN2 5NP on your sat nav, and parking up and walking when it looks too busy to get much further.

Parking

Despite our caution about driving to the test centre, parking options in the area actually look quite promising. Though the test centre itself doesn’t provide space for cars, you can park on nearby Linden Park Road (TN2 5QL), which is 3 minutes away. If you’re lucky enough to nab a spot, it’ll cost you £2.80 for 2 hours of parking.

Failing that, head over to the Upper Pantiles car park (TN2 5TP). There are plenty of spaces here and it’s only 5 minutes from the test centre. How about the dent it’ll make in your wallet? Just £2.60 for 2 hours!

Pass Rates by Year

Despite only being open for a few years, the Tunbridge Wells centre pass rates are impressively high. Remember, though, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you will definitely ace the theory if you sit it here; your result depends on how prepared you are.

2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
N/A 58.5% 57.5% 53.7% 53.4% 64.3%  63.8% 

Guides and Tips

A good revision plan is the key to theory test success, as far as PassMeFast is concerned. Swot up on your highway code and start studying those hazard perception clips. There are lots of useful resources out there that can prepare you for exactly what’s to come on the day. Check out some particularly good apps and guides that are listed below.

Ready to Go?

Nearby Theory Test Centres

Hotels

Aside from being a popular location for the theory test, Tunbridge Wells is also a lovely place to visit. Booking yourself into a local hotel the night before your test means you can be assured of a good night’s kip and gives you the chance to do a bit of non-driving related exploring! Here are a few local options:

The Tunbridge Wells Hotel ★★★☆☆

When in Tunbridge Wells, you may as well stay at the Tunbridge Wells Hotel! Handily, this charming abode is less than 300 ft from where you’ll be taking the theory test. It’s a 3 star hotel with 5 star decor and service. Snap up a room before they’re all taken!

Smith & Western ★★★☆☆

Who doesn’t love a themed hotel?! OK, maybe quite a few people, but they’re no fun at all! Chuck on your cowboy hat, mount your trusty steed and ride on over because the Smith & Western is calling. On top of all the American themed decor you’d expect, there’s also free WiFi, very comfortable beds and the option of a nice cooked breakfast. Giddy up!

One Warwick Park Hotel ★★★★☆

If you really want to push the boat out and check-in somewhere fancy, the One Warwick Park Hotel is a fine choice. Elegant surroundings, the finest amenities and top notch service await. Once you settle into one of the exquisite rooms here, there’s a risk you might never want to leave. Do, though–there’s the rather important matter of the theory test to take care of…

Places to Celebrate

Theory test pass certificate (hopefully) in the bag, it’s time to celebrate (or commiserate)! Either way, don’t skip the opportunity to have a mooch around the local area. Whether you fancy a full blown knees-up or just a little something to wet your whistle, there are plenty of great bars around Tunbridge Wells. Here are a few of our top picks:

Framptons

Framptons is an independent cafe bar serving up delicious creations from local produce. Whether you’re in the mood for cocktails, coffee or the catch of the day, this place serves it up well! There are also some great food and drink deals available on weekdays, so be sure to take advantage if you’re there at the right time!

The Barn Pub & Restaurant

What started as an Elizabethan barn is now a goregeous pub and restaurant that boasts an award winning courtyard garden—wit woo! The staff are super friendly, the food is delicious and the surroundings are beautifully rustic. A real winner, in our eyes.

Chapel Place Wine Bar

Anyone who likes their vino would do well to mosey on down to this trendy little wine bar. It’s also a great option for you gin lovers, too! Casual, cosy and all things nice, this is a great place to kick back and relax with a drink while you reflect on your day.

What Happens Next?

The Tunbridge Wells theory test centre may be fairly new, but it’s already made a name for itself thanks to high pass rates and a desirable location. Anyone from in and around Kent should give this test centre serious consideration.

With the theory test ticked off the list, you should start thinking about the practical side of things. Fit in plenty of hours of practice behind the wheel and book yourself a test as soon as possible, to avoid lengthy waiting times. If Tunbridge Wells is your hometown, the most convenient practical test centres will be Tunbridge Wells itself or Sevenoaks.

Don’t worry too much if the theory test didn’t go to plan. Reflect on where you went wrong, put in some more study time and book a new test. Just remember to leave a gap of 3 working days between each one, as per the rules set by the DVSA.

Determined to get your hands on a driving licence as soon as possible? Let PassMeFast take care of the entire process. We have courses for every type of learner and our office team are on hand to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Call us on 0333 123 4949 to get started, or just hit the button below. When you’re with PassMeFast, the road to driving doesn’t have to be long!

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