Franciscan Gardens — Attraction in Canterbury

I really love these gardens and to me they are a very special hidden sanctuary and I suppose that is what they have always been. Canterbury, I guess like everywhere seems to have a lot of people who are wandering around a bit lost, a bit angry about life and a little volatile and these gardens filter that out and are much more peaceful than the public spaces that they sit next to. I love the little public garden that sits next to this space but it suffers from big groups of people smoking and drinking, these can feel intimidating and leave a lot of rubbish strewn over the place (that being said I witnessed a group of seagulls pulling out all the rubbish from the bins a scattering the mess all over the place so maybe the people aren't as thoughtless as they appear). Last night I thought rather than just grumble about rubbish I'd pick it up and it only took about 5mins to get rid of most...

Saint Francis of Assisi is often referred to as 'the Poor Man of Assisi' as he devoted himself to a life of poverty. Francis would not be able to enjoy the gardens in the 21st century as it has been made into an expensive tourist trap. Such a shame, as I have lived in Canterbury for a long time and used to love to eat my lunch in the gardens for free. To be honest, branding this tourist attraction as 'Franciscan' is quite offensive and, indeed, sacrilegious. The owners are cashing in on the name of a cannonised Saint in order to create massive personal profits. Not worth the entrance price anyway... two fields with a little herb garden and a river? Pull the other one, I'm in Canterbury, mate. Nothing wrong with the Westgate Gardens for a spot of idyllic nature for free, just 200...

A.....maz.....ing A little slice of heaven on earth, slap bang in Canterbury centre.... breathtaking scenery from the moment you step into these magical gardens..... lovingly cared for which is so obvious..... staff are an absolute delight too £5 for entry and your ticket will allow you access for a whole day, so you can leave and return for a romantic picnic. Tranquil peaceful spiritual..... even that doesn't sum it up.... pure love.... a healing experience from start to finish.... and the Chapel is the icing on this delicious Canterbury historical cake.... I mean gardens.... 800 years old.... your £5 will be helping keep history alive and well kept for the years to come Thank you for such a beautiful morning.... I'll...