Franciscan Gardens

Discover the history of the gardens and how we’re using the past to inform our future.
Hidden in the centre of historic Canterbury, the beautiful Franciscan Gardens is a heritage site that is home to the first Franciscan settlement in England which was established in 1224.

If you need to escape the busy high street of Canterbury, we offer a haven of peace, where you can walk in the footsteps of the first Franciscans in England. Explore the nature and wildlife of the monastic lands whilst taking in the 800 years of history.

In 1538, the Franciscans were forced to surrender their lands due to their refusal to accept Henry VIII’s reformation of religion. Between 1538 and the late nineteenth century the lands on which the friary stood, now known as the Greyfriars Estate, passed through a succession of private owners.

The Franciscan Gardens along with the Greyfriars Chapel are part of the Eastbridge Hospital. Originally created to provide for pilgrims visiting the tomb of St Thomas Becket, for over 800 years the Eastbridge has given shelter and help to pilgrims, soldiers, local societies and schoolchildren.

We invite you to explore our ancient buildings, learn about our history and the part we play in our community today.

The gardens are composed of many different pathways, surfaces and gradients and the visitor route is prominently a mix of grass and gravel. There are several benches and spaces in the gardens and additional seating on the first floor of the chapel.

The Gardens do not have toilet facilities on site.

We welcome dogs and have a water bowl for any pets.