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Tunbridge Wells sandstone is Lower Cretaceous in age. It was lain down in large braided river channels. Today it's outcrops form upland regions across the Weald of Kent. In the Tunbridge Wells area there are several locally famous sites. Mount Edgecumbe Rocks TQ5739 : Edgecumbe Rocks, Wellington Rocks TQ5739 : Wellington Rocks, Tunbridge Wells Common, Toad Rock TQ5639 : Toad Rock, Rusthall, Happy Valley Rocks TQ5639 : Happy Valley Rocks, High Rocks TQ5638 : High Rocks, Eridge Rocks TQ5535 : Eridge Rocks, The Chiddingstone TQ5045 : The Chiding stone, Chiddingstone, Harrison Rocks
The rock makes for good rock climbing in the SE of England.
The rock is locally rich in Iron and mining it gave the Wealden area an Iron making industry in Mediaevil times. It also accounts for a number of Chalybeate springs across Kent and Sussex.

This series of sandstone cliffs and rocks was apparently inhabited as long ago as the mesolithic era, but in modern times became well known as a tourist destination with the development of the nearby spa town of Tunbridge Wells in the 17th century, with gazebos and a bowling lawn among other attractions. In Victorian times it was developed with a maze, tea lawn, playground etc.

In the 20th century, a railway halt (open from 1907-1952) ensured its survival. More recently it has reverted to a less touristy presentation, although the wooden bridges crossing the chasms between the rocks have been maintained. Visitors pay a fee (£3 as of 2011) at the hotel across the road. Rock climbers may use it on payment of a supplementary fee.

[information from a leaflet available on site].