Westgate Gardens
Canterbury, Kent · ★ 4.7 · 5,640 visitor reviews
Canterbury, CT1 2DB
About
Explore a riverside landscape rich in wildlife and history. Situated alongside the Great Stour River in the historic city of Canterbury, the Westgate Parks are four unique green spaces (Westgate Gardens, Toddler’s Cove, Tannery Field and Bingley Island) all linked by surfaced paths accessible to everyone. Together they form a delightful linear park which follows the river from the heart of Canterbury's busy city centre into the countryside.
Enjoy the riverside walks from the medieval Westgate Towers located at the end of Canterbury city centre's bustling high street. Walks begin in the picturesque formal gardens and wind through picnic sites, a Roman themed children's play area to water meadows and a local nature reserve. Canterbury City Council in partnership with the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Kentish Stour Countryside Partnership are delivering a restoration programme (2013 – 18) at the cost of £1 million to revitalise the park, provide new infrastructure, interpretation and a programme of community activities.
Good for: all ages, babies toddlers, older children, teenagers, young children
Categories
Facilities
- Baby Changing
- Cafe
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Dog Friendly
- Accessible Parking
- Accessible Entrance
Prices
Opening times
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Common questions
Is Westgate Gardens free to visit?
Yes, entry to Westgate Gardens is completely free. It's a brilliant budget-friendly day out for families in Canterbury.
What can families do at Westgate Gardens?
Families can enjoy riverside walks from the medieval Westgate Towers, explore the formal gardens, relax at picnic sites, and let children play in the Roman-themed play area. The walk winds through to water meadows and a local nature reserve.
Is Westgate Gardens suitable for toddlers?
Yes, the gardens welcome all ages from babies and toddlers to teenagers. Toddler's Cove is specifically designed for young children with hours of fun to be had.
Can I bring my dog to Westgate Gardens?
Yes, Westgate Gardens is dog-friendly. The riverside setting along the Great Stour provides a lovely walk for the whole family including four-legged members.
What are the opening hours for Westgate Gardens?
The gardens are open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Accessible parking and a cafe are available, making it easy to spend quality time by the river in the heart of Canterbury.
What families say
5640 reviews