Westgate Gardens
Strike a pose, pack a picnic, board a punt or simply soak up the seasonal splendour of Canterbury's idyllic public park, Westgate Gardens.
The Westgate Gardens Canterbury attract thousands of visitors every year, as they are famous for the incredible colourful floral displays dotted along the banks of the River Stour, against the imposing backdrop of the ancient Westgate Towers and surrounded by picturesque remnants of a medieval folly.
The park is popular but never feels overcrowded with plenty of space to explore and soak up the scenery. It has become famous for inspiring a scene in the anime series Sakura Quest, and attracts many anime fans as the flowers come into bloom.
It is within easy walking distance of Canterbury West train station and is in the heart of the very popular and bohemian West End district, with ample shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. Spend your day in Canterbury's West End!
The park consists of large lawn areas that are perfect for picnics and sunbathing, as well as riverside and park footpaths shaded by a variety of trees including redwood, ash, Scots pine, walnut, spruce, beech and tulip. Another major attraction in the park is the Oriental Plane Tree, which is more than 200 years old - you cannot miss its distinctive large trunk!
If you prefer to explore the park by water, book a leisure boat ride along the river with Westgate Punts; the guides can tell you the history of the area or simply do the hard work while you relax on a peaceful trip. Open from Mid-March to the end of October, weather dependent.
You might even spot the underwater sculpture, Alluvia, by Jason deCaires Taylor floating on the river bed.
The gardens are overlooked by the historic Tower House, a popular wedding and private events venue which has a mobile cafe operating in the summer months with outdoor seating (subject the venue's schedule).
Further down the path into the countryside you will find the huge adventure playground, Toddler's Cover, with toilets and a refreshment van.
If you want to stretch your legs, you can follow the footpath along the Stour out into the countryside all the way to the picturesque village of Chartham.
The park also has a small physic garden, and a Memorial Garden commemorating those who were awarded the Burma Star or Italy Star medals in the Second World War. There is also a baby memorial garden within the park.
The park is maintained and supported by a dedicated team of volunteers at the Friends of Westgate Parks - learn about the history of the parks, and the wider work of the charitable group.
If you are visiting the gardens for photographs, please follow these rules!
Events
There are regular community events in the gardens throughout spring and summer, including art shows, performances, and social meet ups. Be sure to check our events pages for the latest information.
Address
Westgate Gardens Westgate Gardens River Walk, Canterbury CT1 2DB
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