Franciscan Gardens Canterbury | Kent

Historic Garden Attraction in Canterbury

In the recently replanted Franciscan Gardens, you can escape the hustle and bustle of Canterbury’s city centre. Discover symbolic planting, peaceful paths, and the picturesque Greyfriars Chapel, inspired by the site’s original use as a Franciscan Friary. Visit this place of contemplation and tranquillity beside the burbling Great Stour river to walk in the footsteps of the first Franciscans in England.

Explore the garden as it offers a reinterpretation of the former monastic way of life and successive horticultural traditions. Take a seat and relax for a moment in the picturesque wildflower meadow, dotted with heritage fruit trees. First planted in 2000, we continue to add new features and planting as the garden begins to grow and mature.

The History

Upon arriving in Canterbury from Italy in 1224, the Franciscans were given a small island. As active members of the community, the friars gained respect and popularity by assisting the sick and needy. They were bequeathed more land and funds over the next two centuries, which transformed their simple settlement into a twenty-acre friary.

After the many lives, the garden has lived, it was given a new beginning in 2000 when we first embarked on the enormous challenge to restore the original Franciscan Friary garden from a derelict site. Now open for the first time as a heritage site, we will continue to develop and grow the garden as the planting matures, reinvesting the income our small charity generates. A haven away from the bustle of Canterbury’s busy streets, we hope to be a treasured site for visitors and the local community to pause in nature, reflect on the simple joys of life and discover our fascinating history.

Nearby Places to Visit
Eastbridge Hospital
Salisbury Cathedral
Elham Treehouse
Leeds Castle