Monastic Gardens Tour

The first caretakers of Canterbury Cathedral were the Benedictine monks who lived on site throughout the middle ages. The tended the gardens around the Cathedral to provide food for the monastery and plants which provided a variety of uses from healthcare to writing ink.

We trace the history of the monastic gardens and look at how plants were used during the middle ages. We trace how the gardens changed over time, with the Memorial garden moving from a place to grow food, to a recreation ground, to its final use as a tranquil place for reflection and remembrance.

We also look at how the gardens were tended after the monasteries were dissolved by King Henry VIII and how they are looked after today.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

1230

Monday 14 September:

1230

Thursday 17 September:

1230

Location & directions

Canterbury Cathedral, The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2EH

Directions:

Canterbury Cathedral is in the centre of the city, easily accessible by train and bus, and a short walk from several of the city's car parks. On arrival at the Buttermarket please enter the Visitor Centre which is clearly signposted. There is step-free access to the site via Christ Church Gate.

Contact on day:

Melodie Robson

Telephone number:

+441227862749

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please book a ticket online.

Booking contact name:

Visits Team

Booking telephone number:

+441227862762

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://buy2.myonlinebooking.co.uk/canterburycathedral/sessions.aspx?tid=18

Booking opens:

01 Jun 2026 12:00 PM

Booking closes:

10 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

There is step-free access onto the site via Christ Church Gate. There is a ramp up to the Memorial Garden. The ground from the Memorial Garden to the Water Tower Garden can be uneven but is accessible. There is a ramp from the Water Tower Garden to the Herb Garden. There is a ramp from the Cloister to exit the site. Disabled parking is available to book (subject to availability) via [email protected]

Additional information

The tour takes place outside. Please wear weatherproof clothing and suitable footwear for outdoor walking. When you arrive at the Visitor Centre you will be given a wristband to join the tour. Please wait for your guide at the back of the Visitor Centre. You will be directed by the Visitor Centre team.

Max number of people:

20

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s) 15 minute(s)

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