The gardens house an oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) estimated to be over 200 years old.
The river flowing through the gardens is the River Stour, a primary waterway in Kent.
The park contains segments of the original medieval flint city walls that once protected Canterbury.
The gardens were historically part of the private grounds of a large house known as Tower House.
A series of riverside paths connect the gardens directly to the nearby Toddler's Cove playground.
Westgate Gardens is a historic public park situated along the banks of the River Stour in Canterbury. The site is centered around the ancient Westgate Towers and features a diverse collection of trees, including a 200-year-old oriental plane tree. It incorporates remnants of the medieval city wall and provides direct access to the river walk. The landscape includes formal flower beds, herbaceous borders, and riverside lawns. The gardens serve as a key transition point between the urban center and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can observe the river's wildlife, including resident swans and ducks, from several footbridges. The park acts as a primary green corridor within the city's conservation area.
The footbridge looking back toward the Westgate Towers with the river and floral borders in the foreground.
Walk the river path towards Bingley Island for a quieter, more naturalistic stretch of the Stour.
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the formal lawns near the riverbank.
Use the footbridge connecting the gardens to the Westgate Towers for the best vantage point of both the river and the gatehouse.
Attempting to feed the local waterfowl, which disrupts their natural diet and encourages aggressive behavior.
Stay on marked footpaths to protect the borders; keep dogs under control or on leads as per local signage.
