The Pantiles originally attracted visitors to Tunbridge Wells who came to drink its famous spa waters. As its reputation spread, it became a place to see and be seen, as crowds came to enjoy its secondary attractions. Gambling was common place on the Pantiles (then known as the Walks), with people staking huge sums in its gaming rooms. The gambling attracted 'sharpers, professional gamblers/con men who blurred the line between cheating and beating the odds. 'Fine ladies' would travel to the Well