Tenbury Wells, a small ancient market town, is surrounded by an area well known for growing hops and cider apples. Near the borders of Herefordshire and Shropshire, and next to the River Teme, Tenbury Wells is a great location for fishermen, walkers and cyclists. Described as "my little town in the orchard" by Queen Victoria, Tenbury Wells still has an unspoilt quality about it.
Mineral water was first discovered in the town in 1839 when a landowner was digging to find a better water supply. A man called A V Granville, who was considered quite an expert in spas at the time, visited Tenbury to advise on the water. He took samples to be analysed and found it contained Iodine and so could claim that the water had healing properties.
Partly on the recommendation of Granville, an impressive spa and pump rooms were built in 1862 by James Cransten of Birmingham. Cransten apparently based his design on his own greenhouse. Accommodation was built for visitors and the streets were paved to ensure the gentry could promenade without getting dirty. At about this time Tenbury also had the "Wells" added to its name to promote this water industry. Unfortunately, the influx of visitors never materialised and the spa struggled to survive. More about the history of the Tenbury Wells pump rooms can be seen here. The Tenbury Spa was fully restored in 1999 and can be visited. Telephone the Town Clerk on 01584 810118 for opening times or to make arrangements to view.
For more details on Tenbury Wells, things to see and events, please see the Tourist Information and Visitor Guide.