Franciscan Gardens, Canterbury

Home to the first Franciscan settlement in England

Discover the history of the gardens and how we’re using the past to inform our future.

Hidden in the center 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.

Discover

The history

Explore

The gardens

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.

2024 Prices

ADULTS (aged 18+): £4.00

CHILDREN (aged 5 -17): FREE

max. 4 children per family. Offer not included with group bookings.
Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult

CHILDREN (under 5): FREE

ESSENTIAL CARER OR COMPanION: FREE

(when accompanying a disabled visitor)

Franciscan Gardens Loyalty Card

visit 3 times and get your 4th visit free

Opening Hours

JANUARY & FEBRUARY: CLOSED for regular maintenance

MARCH – August: 10AM – 5PM

SEPTEMBER – October: 10AM – 4PM

November – DECEMBER: 10AM – 3PM

Last entry to the gardens is 1 hour before closing time
Days and hours may change, especially during Winter months.
Please check our social media and this website for updates.

This week in
the garden

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Bee
Eastbridge Hospital logo

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.