Overview

The Nevill Ground is one of the most picturesque remaining on the county circuit and has been constantly used by Kent since they first played on it in 1901. The festival week, which usually takes place in June, is notable for the plethora of purple blooms on the rhododendron bushes around the perimeter. The ground itself is situated at Hawkenbury, on the southern outskirts of Tunbridge Wells. It is currently the smallest ground (by nominal seating capacity) regularly visited by Kent County Cricket Club. The London to Hastings railway line passes close to the ground; hence the bowling ends are the Pavilion End and the Railway End. Amenities at the ground are provided mainly from large marquees erected specifically for the first-class fixtures. A souvenir shop, beer tent, several snack bars and a small bookmakers' office are available at most first team games. Permanent toilet facilities are available at the rear of the Bluemantles stand. These are augmented by temporary facilities during first team matches.

The ground has staged one ODI, during the 1983 World Cup, and a remarkable game it was. India, who went on to win the tournament, were reduced to 78 for 7 by Zimbabwe before Kapil Dev blasted 175 to guide them to a 31-run victory.

In 1913 the pavilion was burned down by suffragettes and many of Kent's records were lost in the fire. In 1914-18 the ground was used to house the cavalry and the pitches suffered for some time afterwards.
Cricinfo staff

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