As the weather improves, I decided to take a walk around the Cathedral grounds and to my excitement the gardens were coming back to life. The spring flowers in the gardens boosted my mood and put me in the spring spirit. The Herb Garden, Friends Garden and Memorial Garden all have a lovely variety of daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops, hellebore making the gardens colourful again after the winter. Taking a break from studying to enjoy a book on one of the many benches dotted around the Cathedral grounds is a mindful moment I highly recommend!
Did you know: The Canterbury Cathedral is free to visit as a University of Kent student, so it is definitely worth an explore before graduation!
The Herb Garden
In medieval times, monks cultivated herb gardens for cooking, medicine, and ink-making. In 2005, the garden was recreated near its original site. To its right, I was delighted by the vibrant purple crocuses and bright yellow daffodils, adding a touch of colour to the tranquil setting.
The Friends Garden
This garden is in honour of the Friends of the Cathedral who admire the architecture, history and surrounding community. The statue in the centre also commemorates the Royal East Kent Regiment which dates back to 1572.
I particularly liked this garden as there are many benches to sit and enjoy the fresh air, with a fantastic view of the Cathedral and ideally located for late afternoon sun.
The Memorial Garden
Amongst other memorial stones, the Kent County War Memorial can be found in the centre of this garden in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the First World War.
There are small gaps built into the walls that allowed bees to colonise the area. The monks would harvest the honey and the wax which was crucial in medieval times.
When I visited, the garden had a lovely variety of flowers (daffodils, hellebore, etc.) and creepers growing up the walls.